Every so often, a car comes along that changes the way we think about driving. The Porsche Taycan is one such car – a brilliant blend of exhilarating performance, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable driving that sets a new standard in the electric sports sedan segment.
But with several variants available, many prospective buyers find themselves asking, “Should I opt for the Taycan 4 or the 4S?”
In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve deep into the strengths and weaknesses of each, and help you make an informed decision.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specification | Taycan 4 | Taycan 4S |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower price point | Higher price point |
| Performance (Horsepower) | 402 hp | 522 hp |
| Torque | 254 lb-ft | 472 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration | 5.1 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 155 mph |
| Battery | 79.2 kWh lithium-ion battery | 93.4 kWh lithium-ion battery |
| Range (EPA estimated) | Up to 227 miles | Up to 288 miles |
Taycan 4: An Impressive Entrance into the World of Electric Sports Cars
The Taycan 4, the base model, represents Porsche’s entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market.
It’s a serious statement of intent, with the brand renowned for high-performance and luxury sports cars now venturing into sustainable mobility.
Despite being the entry model, the Taycan 4 offers an impressive performance.
With 402 horsepower, it can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, a speed that is more than capable of satisfying most drivers’ need for speed.
Moreover, the Taycan 4 boasts a range of up to 227 miles, making it ideal for both city commuting and longer trips.
Pros of the Taycan 4
- Accessible Pricing: Compared to other models in the Taycan line, the 4 is more affordable, making it a more attainable choice for those looking to enjoy the prestige of a Porsche without breaking the bank.
- Balance of Performance and Efficiency: Although not as powerful as the 4S, the Taycan 4 delivers a balance of performance and efficiency that can satisfy most drivers.
Cons of the Taycan 4
- Less Power than the 4S: The Taycan 4’s horsepower and acceleration lag behind the 4S.
- Lower Range: The range, while adequate, isn’t as extensive as some competitors in the EV market.
Also Read: Differences Between Juicebox 40 And 48 EV Chargers.
The Taycan 4S: The Sweet Spot of Performance and Luxury
On the other hand, the Taycan 4S sits above the 4 in the Taycan lineup.
This variant takes everything we love about the base model, then cranks it up a notch.
With 522 horsepower, the 4S shaves off a significant chunk of time in the 0-60 mph sprint, achieving it in just 3.8 seconds.
Pros of the Taycan 4S
- Improved Performance: The 4S offers a significant step up in power and acceleration from the base model, resulting in a more thrilling driving experience.
- Greater Range: With a range of up to 288 miles, the 4S provides more flexibility for those longer trips.
Cons of the Taycan 4S
- Higher Price: All that added power and range come at a cost – the 4S has a significantly higher price point than the base model.
- Less Efficient: Despite its increased range, the 4S is not as energy efficient as the base model, which may impact your charging costs.
Key Differences Between the Porsche Taycan 4 And 4S: A Detailed Breakdown
As we delve further into the specifics of the Taycan 4 and the Taycan 4S, it’s important to note that these models may seem similar at first glance, but they cater to different needs and expectations of drivers. Let’s scrutinize these key differences in more detail.
- Performance
Taycan 4
The base model, Taycan 4, produces 402 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. This power allows it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.1 seconds, with a top speed of 143 mph.
While these numbers may not make it the fastest car on the block, the Taycan 4 offers smooth, controlled power delivery that makes for an enjoyable and comfortable drive.
Taycan 4S
The Taycan 4S, however, packs a heftier punch. It delivers 522 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, and reach a top speed of 155 mph.
The added power not only makes the 4S quicker off the line but also gives it an exhilarating edge during high-speed maneuvers.
- Battery and Range
Taycan 4
The Taycan 4 comes equipped with a 79.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. On a full charge, it offers a range of up to 227 miles. This range, coupled with Porsche’s rapid charging capabilities, makes it ideal for most daily commutes as well as some longer trips.
Taycan 4S
The 4S boasts a larger 93.4 kWh battery pack, providing a more impressive EPA-estimated range of up to 288 miles on a full charge. The extended range makes the 4S a more viable option for those intending to use their electric vehicle for longer journeys or less frequent charging.
- Price
Taycan 4
One of the biggest advantages of the Taycan 4 is its relatively more accessible price point. As the entry model into the Taycan line, it offers drivers the chance to experience the luxury and performance of a Porsche EV without the premium price tag of the higher-performance variants.
Taycan 4S
The Taycan 4S, with its boosted performance and extended range, comes at a higher cost. While it’s a significant step up from the base model in terms of price, many enthusiasts find the enhanced driving experience and additional range to be worth the investment.
The key differences between the Taycan 4 and 4S lie in their performance, range, and price. While both models offer an impressive entry into the world of electric sports cars, the choice between the two will depend on your personal driving preferences, lifestyle, and budget.
The Taycan 4 and 4S, despite their common lineage, cater to different kinds of drivers. The 4 is for those who value the balance between performance and efficiency, while the 4S is for the power-hungry driver who craves the thrill of greater acceleration.
Also Read: Comparison of Costco And AAA Car Buying Services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main difference between the Taycan 4 and 4S is performance and price. The 4S delivers greater power, acceleration, and range than the base 4, but it also comes with a higher price tag.
The base model Taycan (Taycan 4) provides a balance between efficiency and performance at a more accessible price point. The Taycan 4S, however, boasts more horsepower and a longer range, providing a more exhilarating driving experience.
The difference lies in the performance and price. The Taycan S (Taycan 4S in this context) offers a more powerful drive and a higher range, while the Taycan (Taycan 4) provides a balanced performance at a lower price point.
The “best” version depends on what you’re looking for. If it’s high performance you’re after, then the Taycan Turbo S tops the list with its lightning-fast acceleration and top speed. If it’s a balance between performance and cost, then the Taycan 4S might be the sweet spot. The Taycan 4 is the best choice for those seeking entry into the electric Porsche world without the higher price tag of the more powerful models.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the Porsche Taycan 4 and 4S both offer a thrilling taste of what the future of electric sports cars could be like. With each having its unique strengths and weaknesses, the choice boils down to what the individual driver values most.
Whether it’s the more affordable, balanced performance of the Taycan 4, or the punchier, higher range of the Taycan 4S, both cars embody Porsche’s commitment to marrying luxury and sustainability.
