Climbing in the 2009 Tesla Roadster was much easier than squeezing in the Elise. Tesla had the Roadster's doorsills lowered, and it makes a huge difference. Room inside is still tight, and even a modestly tall adult can easily reach the passenger door without a stretch. If you've got someone riding shotgun, you'll rub shoulders and elbows. Soft leather and full carpeting make for a more luxurious interior compared to the Spartan and purposeful Elise.
Settled in the sling-like bucket seat, the job of driving the 2009 Roadster is easier than most sports cars. Hit the starter button, engage drive, and go. The transmission is a single-speed unit, so there's no need to shift. Just stab the throttle and steer.
The Roadster's braking capabilities are excellent, but curious. The electric motor that powers the Roadster immediately switches into a generator when you lift off of the accelerator pedal. When you lift, the car slows immediately due to the resistance of generator spinning to recharge the battery pack.
The 2009 Tesla Roadster's single electric motor produces the equivalent of 248 horsepower and an even more impressive 276 lb-ft of torque. The torque is available from 0 rpm (that's zero). The thrust is completely instant, linear, and uninterrupted.