The roar of the crowd at Muirfield Village is unlike anything else in professional golf. If you’ve ever stood behind the ropes on the 18th green during the Memorial Tournament, you know that the energy in Dublin, Ohio, reaches a fever pitch every June. But before you can enjoy the pristine fairways and the legendary milkshakes, you have to solve a logistical puzzle: how are you getting there?
At Frontier Tesla, we’ve helped hundreds of golf enthusiasts navigate the trek from downtown Columbus to the heart of Dublin. The choice usually boils down to two heavyweights. Do you go with the sleek, efficient Model 3, or do you upgrade to the spacious, commanding Model Y? Choosing a Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y rental isn't just about aesthetics. It’s about ensuring your gear, your guests, and your sanity remain intact during one of the busiest weeks in the Midwest.
The Golf Club Litmus Test: Can the Model 3 Handle Two Bags?
It’s the question we hear most often at our downtown pickup locations. "Does the Model 3 have enough trunk space for two sets of golf clubs?" The short answer is yes. The nuanced answer is that it requires a bit of strategy.
The Tesla Model 3 offers approximately 15 cubic feet of trunk space, supplemented by a 3.1 cubic foot "frunk" (front trunk). For a solo traveler or a couple, this is plenty. However, golf bags are notoriously awkward. To fit two standard carry bags or "stand bags" into a Model 3 trunk, you will likely need to remove the drivers from the bags first. By placing the drivers diagonally or in the cabin, the bags themselves can usually slide in side-by-side.
If you’re carrying "tour" or "staff" bags—those massive leather behemoths the pros use—the Model 3 will feel cramped. You’ll almost certainly need to fold down one of the 60/40 split rear seats to accommodate the length. This works perfectly for two people, but it effectively turns the car into a three-seater.
In contrast, the Model Y is a cavern. With 30.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row, you can stack two, three, or even four sets of clubs without breaking a sweat or folding a single seat. If your group is serious about their gear, the Model Y eliminates the "trunk Tetris" that can start your morning on a stressful note.
Is the Model Y Worth the Extra Cost for the Memorial Tournament?
When you’re booking your Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y rental, you’ll notice a price delta. Typically, the Model Y commands a premium of 15% to 25% over the Model 3. Is it worth it for a trip to Muirfield?
Think about your group size. If you are a group of four adults attending the Memorial Tournament, the Model Y isn't just a luxury; it’s a necessity. The Model Y sits higher, providing significantly more headroom and, more importantly, much-needed legroom in the rear. The "stadium seating" in the Y means your passengers won't feel like they're sitting on the floor, a common critique of the Model 3’s low-slung rear bench.
Then there’s the "spectator fatigue" factor. After walking several miles across the undulations of Muirfield Village, climbing into a low-profile Model 3 can feel like a chore. The Model Y’s higher hip point allows you to slide in and out with ease. We’ve found that our clients who choose the Model Y for group outings report much higher satisfaction levels, citing the airy cabin and panoramic glass roof as a welcome reprieve from the Ohio humidity.
Navigating Dublin and Columbus: Which Model Wins the Range War?
Central Ohio is relatively flat, which is great for EV efficiency. But when you’re bouncing between a hotel in Short North, dinners in Upper Arlington, and the tournament in Dublin, range matters.
Which Tesla model has better range for driving around Dublin and Columbus? If we look at the 2024 Long Range variants, the Model 3 edges out the Model Y. The Model 3 Long Range offers an EPA-estimated 341 miles, while the Model Y Long Range provides about 310 to 320 miles.
However, in the context of a Columbus-based trip, this 20-mile difference is largely academic. A round trip from downtown Columbus to Muirfield Village is roughly 40 miles. Even with the standard range models, you could make that trip five times over without needing a charge.
The real winner in the "range" category for this specific trip is actually the Model 3, but for a different reason: efficiency. The Model 3’s lower drag coefficient means it sips battery at highway speeds on I-315 and SR-161. If you’re a data nerd who loves seeing a low Wh/mi (Watt-hours per mile) figure on the dash, the Model 3 is your car. But if you want the peace of mind that comes with a slightly higher seating position to spot your exit in heavy tournament traffic, the Model Y’s negligible range penalty is a fair trade.
The Sawmill Road Factor: Why FSD is Your Best Friend
If you’ve ever driven in Dublin during the Memorial, you know Sawmill Road and Riverside Drive become bottlenecks. This is where Frontier Tesla’s self-driving-capable fleet shines.
Using Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software during tournament week is a revelation. While you still need to remain attentive, the car handles the stop-and-go crawls with a level of smoothness that reduces driver fatigue. It manages the lane changes and navigates the roundabouts—of which Dublin has many—with surprising competence.
Whether you choose the 3 or the Y, having a car that can handle the "heavy lifting" of traffic allows you to focus on the conversation with your friends or plan which hospitality tent you're hitting first.
Key Takeaways: Model 3 vs. Model Y for Golf Fans
Before you click "book," consider this quick checklist we developed for our Frontier Tesla guests:
- Choose the Model 3 if: You are traveling solo or as a couple, you prefer a sporty driving feel, and you want the most budget-friendly entry into the Tesla ecosystem.
- Choose the Model Y if: You have more than two people, you’re carrying more than two sets of clubs, or you simply prefer the "command" seating position of an SUV.
- The Club Factor: Model 3 fits two bags (tightly); Model Y fits four bags (easily).
- The Range Factor: Both are more than capable of handling the Columbus-to-Dublin corridor without range anxiety.
Charging Infrastructure in the 614
One of the perks of renting a Tesla in Columbus is the robust Supercharger network. If you’re staying downtown, there are convenient stalls near the Scioto Mile. If you’re closer to the tournament, the Polaris and Easton Supercharger stations offer high-speed charging while you grab a bite to eat.
According to a 2024 infrastructure report by the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), Central Ohio has seen a 40% increase in public charging ports over the last two years. You are never more than 10 minutes away from a fast charge in the Columbus metro area. At Frontier Tesla, we provide the car with a healthy charge, so you likely won't even need to visit a station during a three-day tournament stay.
A Human Perspective: Why We Love the "3" for Couples
I’ve personally driven both models extensively. There’s something about the Model 3 that feels "right" for a weekend getaway. It’s nimble. It’s easy to park in those tight temporary grass lots near Muirfield. If it’s just you and a partner, the Model 3 feels like a cockpit. It’s intimate.
But I've also been the guy trying to cram four adults and four bags into a sedan. It’s not a good look. It’s sweaty. It’s cramped. In those moments, I would have paid double for the Model Y.
Comparison at a Glance: Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y Rental
| Feature | Tesla Model 3 | Tesla Model Y |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 Adults (Tight in rear) | 5 Adults (Spacious) |
| Cargo Space | 18.1 cu ft (incl. frunk) | 34.3 cu ft (incl. frunk) |
| Golf Club Capacity | 2 sets (with effort) | 4 sets (with ease) |
| EPA Range (LR) | ~341 Miles | ~310 Miles |
| 0-60 mph (LR) | 4.2 Seconds | 4.8 Seconds |
| Best For | Couples / Budget-conscious | Groups / Families / Golfers |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to find parking for a Tesla at the Memorial Tournament?
No harder than any other car! However, Teslas have a "Sentry Mode" that uses the car's cameras to record surroundings. This provides incredible peace of mind when parking in crowded, temporary tournament lots where stray golf balls or wandering spectators might be a concern.
Can I pick up my Frontier Tesla downtown?
Yes. We specialize in downtown pickups. We know you want to get off your flight or out of your hotel and onto the course as quickly as possible. Our contactless pickup process is designed to get you on the road in under five minutes.
Does the Model 3 or Y have a "Golf Mode"?
While there isn't a literal "Golf Mode," Tesla's navigation is integrated with local points of interest. Simply say, "Navigate to Muirfield Village Golf Club," and the car will handle the routing, including traffic-aware adjustments.
What happens if I run low on battery in Dublin?
The car’s navigation will automatically route you to the nearest Supercharger if your battery drops below a certain threshold. In Dublin, you're very close to the standard charging hubs in the Northwest Columbus area.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Rent?
If you are attending the Memorial Tournament with a group of friends, rent the Model Y. The extra space for golf clubs and the superior passenger comfort make it the clear winner for a foursome. The "Tesla Model 3 vs Model Y rental" debate usually ends the moment you try to put the third golf bag in a Model 3.
However, if you’re a solo traveler looking to experience the fastest, most high-tech sedan on the market while saving a few dollars for the pro shop, the Model 3 is an outstanding choice. It’s efficient, it’s sexy, and it handles the Columbus-to-Dublin commute with effortless grace.
At Frontier Tesla, we don't just rent cars; we provide the keys to a better travel experience. Whether you’re here for the birdies or the atmosphere, make sure your ride is as impressive as the golf.
Ready to experience the future of driving? Book your Tesla Model 3 or Model Y today and pick it up downtown for your Memorial Tournament weekend.
Sources
- Tesla Official Model 3 Specifications - Technical data on range and cargo.
- Tesla Official Model Y Specifications - Technical data on dimensions and capacity.
- MORPC 2024 Infrastructure Report - Data on Central Ohio EV charging growth.
- The Memorial Tournament Official Site - Information on location and event logistics.