building a cheap tesla model 3 perfect modsSpeed Academy is a website and YouTube channel based on making things go fast and enjoying cars. Peter Tarach and Dave Pratte are the forces behind Speed Academy.The TTAC Creators Series tells stories and amplifies creators from all corners of the car world, including culture, dealerships, collections, modified builds and more.An AI-produced summary of the transcript, edited by a staffer, is below.AdvertisementAdvertisement[Image: Speed Academy/YouTube Thumbnail]Become a TTAC insider. Get the latest news, features, TTAC takes, and everything else that gets to the truth about cars first by subscribing to our newsletter.SummaryThe video follows the transformation of a heavily used 2019 Tesla Model 3 that the host bought for just under $8,500. Although it was a bargain, the car has significant drawbacks, including chassis rust and a degraded battery. After converting it into a winter-focused rally-style EV, the host now reworks it into a summer performance build.Winter Setup RemovedThe host removes:A 1.75-inch lift kit from Mountain Pass PerformanceRally Armor mud flapsWinter wheels and tiresAdvertisementAdvertisementDuring disassembly, he discovers substantial rust around the wheel arch area and plans a cosmetic repair later.Aerodynamic UpgradesThe car receives several EV-focused aero modifications from Evanx:Front splitter with lower valanceRear diffuserThe host is impressed by the fitment and build quality, noting that the front splitter is claimed to reduce drag by about 3% at highway speeds. The upgrades also give the car a more aggressive appearance.Interior UpgradesSeveral convenience upgrades are added:A 30-degree swivel mount for the center touchscreen, making it more driver-focused.A 7-inch rear entertainment display for passengers, offering features such as:Apple CarPlay connectivityNetflix and YouTube accessRear climate controlsHeated seat controlsAdvertisementAdvertisementThese additions are primarily intended for the host's children.Windshield ReplacementThe cracked windshield is replaced by a local auto glass specialist for significantly less than Tesla's quoted cost of over $2,000. The host briefly discusses the replacement process and the specialized tools required.Brake UpgradeThe Model 3 receives major braking improvements:Mountain Pass Performance two-piece front rotors (365 mm vs. stock 325 mm)Larger thermal capacity for track and spirited drivingApproximately 3.5 pounds of weight savings per rotorMatching lightweight two-piece rear rotorsThe host keeps the factory four-piston calipers but wishes he had refinished them for better appearance.AdvertisementAdvertisementWheels and TiresThe biggest visual transformation comes from:19 x 9.5-inch Mountain Pass Mega Mesh wheelsCustom powder-coated Tesla Pearl White finish255/35R19 Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 summer tiresAdjustable upper control arms and spacers for flush fitmentThe result is a striking white-on-white appearance.Aero CoversThe wheels are designed to accept optional carbon-fiber aerodynamic covers. The host likes the futuristic look and improved efficiency potential, though he acknowledges opinions will vary.Rust RepairInstead of performing a proper restoration, the host humorously does a quick DIY touch-up:AdvertisementAdvertisementCleans the areaApplies color-matched paintFinishes with clear coatHe jokes about the amateur nature of the repair while admitting it still looks better than before.Driving ImpressionsOn the road, the upgraded Model 3 impresses with:Instant EV accelerationStrong braking performanceExcellent grip from the new tiresSurprisingly comfortable ride quality despite performance modificationsThe host and passenger agree that the suspension, brakes, and tires dramatically change the car's character, making it feel much sportier than a stock Model 3.Final VerdictThe host concludes that:An $8,500 Model 3 is difficult to beat as a daily driver.The modifications transform it from a basic appliance into something genuinely fun to drive.EVs excel in practicality, low running costs, and performance.Internal combustion cars still offer more emotional engagement and "soul."He finishes by saying he enjoys both EVs and gasoline-powered enthusiast cars, and jokes that the Tesla may eventually need a battery replacement, so its future remains uncertain.