The custom car community has traditionally been dominated by gas-powered vehicles, but with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), the debate over which platform delivers the most power has heated up. Today, we’ll pit electric and gas-powered custom builds against each other to determine which one reigns supreme when it comes to sheer power and performance.
Electric Custom Builds: The Silent But Deadly Contenders
EVs have quickly gained respect in the custom world due to their incredible torque and acceleration. Unlike internal combustion engines, electric motors deliver instant power, which gives them a significant advantage in off-the-line acceleration.
Take the Tesla Model S Plaid, for example. With 1,020 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of under 2 seconds, this EV is rewriting the rules for speed. Custom builds are further enhancing the Model S Plaid with carbon fiber bodywork, aftermarket wheels, and modified battery systems that boost range and power.
Electric cars also offer the advantage of fewer moving parts, meaning less maintenance and more reliability over time. However, some purists argue that the absence of a roaring engine and manual transmissions takes away from the driving experience.
Gas-Powered Builds: The Roaring Beasts
While EVs boast impressive specs, gas-powered custom builds have long been the kings of the road, thanks to their unrivaled sound and power. Take the Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye, for example. Its supercharged 6.2L V8 engine delivers an earth-shattering 797 horsepower, with tuners pushing this number well beyond 1,000 horsepower through custom mods like bigger superchargers, nitrous oxide, and upgraded intercoolers.
The visceral sound of a finely tuned gas engine combined with the feeling of shifting gears is something EVs can’t replicate. However, gas-powered vehicles often require more maintenance, have higher fuel costs, and are subject to more stringent regulations, especially in environmentally-conscious regions.
The Verdict: It Depends on Your Goals
When it comes to raw power, both platforms have a lot to offer. Electric vehicles, with their instant torque and potential for mind-blowing acceleration, are changing the game. Gas-powered builds, however, still hold the edge for those who crave a sensory experience—there’s nothing quite like the roar of a V8 engine under full throttle.
In the end, your choice comes down to what you value more: cutting-edge technology and performance with an EV, or the traditional power and feel of a gas-powered machine.
Both electric and gas-powered custom builds have their strengths and weaknesses. If you’re after instant power and futuristic tech, EVs may be the way to go. But if you can’t part with the thunderous sound and visceral experience of a gas engine, you’ll continue to be drawn to traditional builds. Either way, the custom car community is in for an exciting future as both platforms continue to evolve.