1996 Lexus SC vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (139 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Lexus SC.
Because 1996 Lexus SC 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 1996 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1996 Lexus SC (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus SC | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lexus | Opel |
| Model | SC | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 52 L |
