$16,010 difference. Running costs are nearly identical since both are EVs with similar efficiency (~13.5-13.8 kWh/100km). The real cost difference is the purchase price and depreciation. Tesla depreciation has been unpredictable. BYD depreciation is unknown (too new in Australia). Neither is a safe bet on resale right now.

Safety Rundown

Both 5-star ANCAP. The Tesla has Autopilot. The Dolphin has basic lane keep and adaptive cruise. Tesla's safety assist score is among the highest ever. Both are safe cars, but the Tesla's active safety technology is more advanced.

Feature Showdown

Tesla's 15.4-inch screen controls everything. No physical buttons, no instrument cluster. Love it or hate it. The Dolphin has a rotating 12.8-inch screen that feels more playful. Tesla gets over-the-air updates, Sentry Mode, Camp Mode, Dog Mode. BYD gets V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) which Tesla doesn't have. If you camp, V2L is genuinely useful.

The $16,000 Question

What does $16,000 extra actually buy you? 83km more range, a faster car, a bigger boot, faster DC charging, and the Supercharger network. For some people that's worth it. For a lot of people who drive 40km a day and charge at home every night, the extra range and charging speed doesn't matter. They'll never use it.

The Dolphin's LFP Blade Battery is arguably better technology for daily use. You can charge it to 100% every day without worrying about battery degradation. Tesla recommends staying at 80% on NMC batteries for longevity.

Charging: Supercharger vs CCS

Tesla's Supercharger network is the most reliable fast-charging network in Australia. The Dolphin uses CCS (universal standard) and can use any CCS charger. Tesla has started opening Superchargers to non-Tesla vehicles but coverage varies. If you road trip regularly between cities, the Tesla's network advantage is real. If you mostly charge at home, it doesn't matter.

Who Should Buy Which?

Buy the Dolphin if: you want an affordable EV for city commuting, charge at home, rarely road trip, and value the $16k savings over extra features.

Buy the Model 3 if: you road trip, value the Supercharger network, want more boot space and range, and can afford the premium.

The Verdict

The Tesla wins on almost every spec: more range, more power, bigger boot, faster charging, better aerodynamics. But the Dolphin costs $16,010 less. That's a deposit on a house. For city commuters who charge at home and rarely road trip, the Dolphin does everything you need for $16k less. For road trippers and anyone who values the Supercharger network and Tesla's tech, the Model 3 justifies the premium.

Explore BYD Dolphin Explore Tesla Model 3

Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (4 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. All opinions are editorial and independent. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.

Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 4 April 2026

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