1997 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 153 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS. 2011 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Astro | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Astro | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2731 mm |
