2021 Mustang Mach-E vs. Tesla Model Y

Tesla is an innovative electric car manufacturer of impressive vehicles with state-of-the-art technologies such as the Tesla Model Y. Tesla hasn’t had much competition in the realm of fully electric cars, but Ford has made a splash by introducing the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Ford Mustangs are a significant player in the American muscle car scene, and now you can have the convenience of an electric car with the performance prowess of a Ford Mustang. This type of vehicle may not appeal to everyone, but it sure makes for an intriguing subject. How does the 2021 Mustang Mach-E compare to the similar Tesla Model Y? Let’s find out.

Exterior Design

Image via Unsplash by Bram Van Oost

Surprisingly, the Mustang Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y are strikingly similar when comparing their exterior design, but which one looks better? The Tesla Model Y has an overall clean design with well-placed lines, intentional curves, and a sporty stance. It incorporates flush-mounted door handles, strategically placed Tesla badging, and a full glass roof, further emphasizing its clean and modern aesthetic.

The Mustang Mach-E, though similar to the Model Y, has all the flare associated with Ford Mustangs. The Mach-E brings the sports aspect into full view with sleek lines, distinctive curves, and an aggressive stance. It excels with small details such as its custom hood design, mock front grille (available with the GT model), defined fender flares, Mustang taillights, and authentic Mustang badging. It also has a new take on door handles that you have to see to appreciate. Depending on the trim level you consider, it also has an available glass roof. The Model Y is available in the Standard Range, Long Range, and Performance trim levels. The 2021 Mustang Mach-E is available in the Select, California Route 1, Premium, GT, and First Edition trim levels. A GT Performance Edition is available for the Mach-E, focussing heavily on the performance aspect expected from a Mustang GT. Whether you choose the Mach-E or the Model Y, you will be stepping into the future of automotive design.

Interior Design

Again, you will find that the Mach-E and the Model Y are very similar in appearance. The Model Y carries its clean exterior aesthetic into the interior with a simplistic modern design pleasing to the eyes and comfortable. The Model Y’s interior is designed around the driver with a low dash and elevated seating position, delivering a commanding view of the road.

The glass roof of the Model Y offers a seamless view of the sky while increasing headroom. With the capability of carrying up to seven passengers and up to 68 cubic feet of cargo, the Model Y is as versatile as it is comfortable.

The Mach-E delivers on some of the same interior aesthetics found in the Model Y, but with a touch of Mustang flare. Its interior is also simplistic and clean, focusing on the driver and the comfort of all passengers. Visual cues include lighted Mustang badging, a 1960s Mustang-inspired dashboard, carbon-fiber accents, and brushed aluminum. Headroom and legroom are impressive, and the available glass roof nicely ties it all together.

The total cargo room is 64.4 cubic feet, with 4.7 cubic feet in a front trunk and the rest under the hatch in the back. What’s unique about the front trunk storage is water resistance, washability, and a convenient drain, plus it doubles as a cooler for beverages. Versatility, comfort, and design are at the Mach-E’s core, and there’s no doubt it is a Mustang.

Automotive Technology

Electric cars are at the forefront of automotive technology, and both the Mach-E and the Model Y solidify this fact. Tesla is known as an innovative futuristic company, as seen in the Model Y. It is loaded with more tech than most vehicles will ever see, yet has a simple interface that is simple to navigate and control. A 15-inch touch screen and immersive sound system highlight the Model Y’s interior, but the tech doesn’t stop there.

The Model Y has two available driving modes, Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability. These features are intended to be used under the driver’s supervision and don’t make the Model Y fully autonomous. Autopilot has traffic-aware cruise control and autosteer. Full Self-Driving Capability includes Navigate on Autopilot (Beta), Auto Lane Change, Autopark, Summon, Smart Summon, and Traffic and Stop Sign Control (Beta). Autosteer on city streets is a feature you may see in the near future.

The Mach-E is big on technological advancements as well. It boasts a 15.5-inch touch screen control center, a 10.2-inch digital gauge bar, wireless phone charging, keyless start, USB ports, and satellite radio. A Bang & Olufsen sound system with nine speakers and a subwoofer immerses you in your favorite tunes as you let Ford’s available Active Drive Assist take over. This feature allows for you to have hands-free driving and tracks your head position and eye gaze with an infrared camera, ensuring you stay focused on the road.

Performance Specs

The Mach-E and the Model Y are prepped for performance with long-range capability, quick acceleration, available all-wheel drive, and responsive handling. The Tesla Model Y has a range of up to 326 miles and can hit 0-60 mph in as little as 3.5 seconds. Add a smooth ride and a quiet interior, and the Model Y is very impressive. The Mach-E has a range of up to 300 miles and can hit 0-60 mph in as little as 3.5 seconds. It handles like a Mustang and provides a smooth, quiet ride as well.

In choosing between the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y, personal preference will be a significant factor. These electric cars are on the cutting edge of technology, have their unique design elements, and both lead the way in automotive engineering. Either car would be an excellent addition to your driveway. Suppose you are partial to clean, simple, and futuristic. In that case, consider the Tesla Model Y. If you have a soft spot for American muscle, more specifically Ford Mustangs, you will most likely be drawn to the Ford Mustang Mach-E.