2008 Tesla Roadster I Dimensions, Size & Specs

Production
Model Year:2008
Production Years:2008 - 2012 discontinued in 2012
1127 mm44.4 in3.7 ft
L: 3946 mm155.4 in12.9 ft | W: 1851 mm72.9 in6.1 ft
Length
3946 mm155.4 in12.9 ft
Width
1851 mm72.9 in6.1 ft
Height
1127 mm44.4 in3.7 ft
Technical Details

Exterior Dimensions

Precise measurements of the 2008 Tesla Roadster I, engineered for optimal performance and comfort

Dimensions
Length:3946 mm155.4 in12.9 ft
Width (Opened Mirrors):1851 mm72.9 in6.1 ft
Height:1127 mm44.4 in3.7 ft
Ground Clearance:130 mm5.1 in0.4 ft
Weight Specifications
Curb Weight:1235 kg2723 lbs
Maximal permitted Weight:1485 kg3274 lbs
Tire Specifications
Rims Sizes:7.5J x 17, 6J x 16
Tire Sizes:225/45 R17 (W:225 | H:45 | D:17)
175/55 R16 (W:175 | H:55 | D:16)
195/50 R16 (W:195 | H:50 | D:16)
Useful Information

About 2008 Tesla Roadster I

The Tesla Roadster I, produced from 2008 to 2012, represents Tesla's pioneering entry into the electric sports car market. This sleek two-seater roadster combines performance with compact design, showcasing pioneering technology in an attractive form factor. Measuring 3946 mm (155.3 inches) in length, 1851 mm (72.9 inches) in width with mirrors opened, and standing just 1127 mm (44.4 inches) tall, the Roadster I is low-slung and aerodynamically optimized for sporty handling and efficient energy consumption.

Weighing 1235 kg (2723 lbs) in curb weight and capable of a maximum gross weight of 1485 kg (3274 lbs), it balances lightweight design with structural integrity. Its ride height of 130 mm (5.1 inches) ensures a sporty stance while maintaining adequate ground clearance for typical road conditions. The car is equipped with front and rear rims sized 7.5J x 17 for the rear and 6J x 16 for the front, paired with tire sizes of 225/45 R17 at the rear and 175/55 R16 and 195/50 R16 for the front, optimizing grip and handling performance.

The Tesla Roadster I not only set new standards for electric vehicle performance but also brought a compact yet aggressive presence to the sports car segment. Its dimensions highlight an emphasis on agility and a sporty driving experience, making it a benchmark for all-electric sports cars that followed. This combination of precise size, weight, and superior engineering makes the Roadster I a distinctive and influential vehicle in the landscape of electric mobility.

Exceptional Features

2008 Tesla Roadster I Highlights

Discover the standout features that make the 2008 Tesla Roadster I a leader in its class

Electric Powertrain

The 2008 Tesla Roadster I is powered by an all-electric motor, delivering instant torque and a smooth, quiet driving experience without any gasoline consumption.

Range and Battery

Equipped with a lithium-ion battery pack, the Roadster offers an impressive driving range of approximately 244 miles on a single charge, making it ideal for longer trips compared to other electric vehicles of its time.

Performance

The Roadster can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.7 seconds, showcasing high-performance sports car capabilities despite its electric powertrain.

Lightweight Design

Built on a Lotus Elise chassis, the Roadster features a lightweight and aerodynamic body, enhancing its handling and efficiency.

Innovative Technology

The vehicle includes advanced regenerative braking, a digital instrument cluster, and customizable driving modes, reflecting Tesla's early commitment to integrating innovative tech.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.

The Tesla Roadster I, produced from 2008 to 2012, is a compact electric sports car with a length of 3946 mm (155.4 inches), a width of 1851 mm (72.9 inches) including opened mirrors, and a height of 1127 mm (44.4 inches). These dimensions reflect its low-slung, aerodynamic roadster design aimed at maximizing performance and driving dynamics. The width measurement includes the side mirrors opened, which is critical when considering parking or clearance in tight spaces.

The Tesla Roadster I has a curb weight of 1235 kg (2723 lbs), which is relatively light for an electric vehicle given its battery technology and sports car classification during its production years from 2008 to 2012. The maximum weight, which includes passengers and cargo, is 1485 kg (3275 lbs). This light curb weight contributes significantly to the car's agility, acceleration, and overall handling characteristics, allowing it to deliver sporty performance while maintaining efficiency.

The Tesla Roadster I offers a ride height or ground clearance of 130 mm (5.1 inches), which is typical for sports cars focused on lower centers of gravity for improved handling. While this low clearance enhances aerodynamic efficiency and cornering ability, it means the car might be less practical on rough or uneven surfaces, with more risk of scraping on speed bumps or steep driveways.

The Tesla Roadster I features specific tire and rim combinations designed for optimal performance. The front rims measure 7.5J x 17 inches, paired with 225/45 R17 tires, while the rear rims feature a staggered setup of 6J x 16 and 6J x 16, with 175/55 R16 and 195/50 R16 tires. These sizes contribute to good road grip, stability, and precise handling, matching the vehicle’s sporty dynamics and electric powertrain.

Yes, the Tesla Roadster I fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With its compact dimensions—length of 3946 mm (about 13 feet), width of 1851 mm (approximately 6 feet 1 inch) including mirrors, and height of just 1127 mm (around 3 feet 8 inches)—it occupies less space than many modern sports cars. Owners should consider the width including mirrors for door clearance during parking, but overall, it is well-suited for typical home garage sizes.

The Tesla Roadster I was groundbreaking as an electric sports car but had a size comparable to classic lightweight roadsters. Its length of 3946 mm (155.4 in) and curb weight of 1235 kg (2723 lbs) make it fairly compact and light, particularly taking into account the weight of its lithium-ion battery pack. Compared to many traditional internal combustion engine sports cars, it is often smaller and lighter, emphasizing efficiency without compromising performance. Since it was Tesla’s first generation Roadster, there is no direct Tesla predecessor but it compares favorably to similar sports cars of its era in size and weight.

At the time of its launch, the Tesla Roadster I was one of the very few electric sports cars available, thus its direct competition was limited. In terms of size, it was compact with a length of 3946 mm (155.4 inches), width of 1851 mm (72.9 inches), and height of 1127 mm (44.4 inches). Compared to similar sports cars such as the Lotus Elise (which shares its platform), the Roadster I is very similar in size and weight, but benefits from an electric powertrain which sets it apart in terms of performance and environmental impact.

The Tesla Roadster I, being a two-seater roadster, offers a snug interior that prioritizes driver engagement over spaciousness. Due to its compact dimensions and low height (1127 mm or 44.4 inches), the cabin is tight and focused, offering limited headroom and legroom typical of sports cars in this category. It is designed for spirited driving rather than long-distance comfort or passenger capacity, with interior space primarily optimized for ergonomics and control accessibility.

With a height of just 1127 mm (44.4 inches), the Tesla Roadster I has a very low profile that enhances aerodynamic efficiency and handling by lowering the center of gravity. However, this also results in a lower driving position that may reduce outward visibility compared to taller vehicles, particularly in heavy traffic or urban settings. Drivers benefit from a sporty, immersive driving experience with excellent road feel, but should remain mindful of limited sightlines typical of low-slung roadsters.

Despite being an electric vehicle, the Tesla Roadster I maintains a curb weight of 1235 kg (2723 lbs), which is light considering the lithium-ion battery technology of its time (2008-2012). Its relatively small footprint (length 3946 mm, width 1851 mm) and lightweight design improve energy efficiency by reducing rolling resistance and aerodynamic drag. This contributes to better range and performance compared to heavier electric vehicles, making the Roadster I a pioneer in demonstrating that electric sports cars can have both exciting performance and practical range.

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