Leapmotor C16 vs Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Which EV is better?
Head-to-head: Leapmotor C16 vs Tesla Model 3 Long Range. Compare real range, efficiency, charging time, price, rating and running costs to find the best electric vehicle for you in 2026.
Our verdict
Tesla Model 3 Long Range wins this head-to-head
It wins 6 of 8 categories compared below, with a margin of 4 category wins.
The numbers that matter
Real, comparable stats from our database. The green value wins each category.
| Specification | C16 | Model 3 Long Range |
|---|---|---|
| Range Model 3 Long Range wins | 520 km | 549 km |
| Battery Model 3 Long Range wins | 67.7 kWh | 82 kWh |
| Efficiency Model 3 Long Range wins | 16.4 kWh/100km | 14.9 kWh/100km |
| 0-100 km/h Model 3 Long Range wins | 7.4 s | 4.2 s |
| Fast charge 10-80% Model 3 Long Range wins | ~33 min | ~22 min |
| Seats C16 wins | 6 | 5 |
| Price C16 wins | $33,000 | $44,990 |
| Rating Model 3 Long Range wins | 4.2 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Est. running cost / yr | $369/yr | $335/yr |
View the full specification sheet
| Specification | C16 | Model 3 Long Range |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 67.7 kWh | 82 kWh |
| Range | 520 km (CLTC) | 341 mi (EPA) |
| Top speed | 170 km/h | 145 mph |
| Power | RWD · 272 hp | AWD · 423 hp |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.4 s | — |
| Charging (10-80%) | ~33 min | ~22 min |
| Drive | RWD | Dual motor AWD |
| Efficiency | 16.4 kWh/100 km | — |
| Seats | 6 | 5 |
| Cargo | 460 L | — |
| 0-60 mph | — | 4.2 s |
Leapmotor C16
Pros
- 6 seats for the price
- Good range
- Excellent value
- Modern cabin
Cons
- Average charging speed
- No AWD
- New brand network
- Firm low-speed ride
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
Pros
- Long real-world range
- Best fast-charging network
- Frequent software updates
- Low long-term running costs
Cons
- Minimalist interior is not for everyone
- No physical buttons
- Build quality varies
- Insurance can be pricey
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tesla Model 3 Long Range really better than Leapmotor C16?
Our verdict is based on real specs: range, battery, efficiency, acceleration, charging speed, seats, price and rating. The winner wins the majority of those categories, but the right choice depends on your budget, driving style and priorities.
Which has more range, Leapmotor C16 or Tesla Model 3 Long Range?
520 km vs 549 km respectively, before factoring in weather and driving conditions.
Which is cheaper to run?
Based on official efficiency and a typical $0.15/kWh tariff at 15,000 km per year, running costs are estimated at $369/yr for the Leapmotor C16 and $335/yr for the Tesla Model 3 Long Range.
Should I compare more models?
Yes - add both models to our interactive comparator to see every spec side by side, or use the Which EV quiz to find more models that fit your budget and lifestyle.
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