1996 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 482 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Opel | Lexus |
| Model | Astra | IS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 65 L |
