1995 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 362 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Opel Astra | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Opel | Lexus |
| Model | Astra | IS |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2728 mm |
