1998 Lexus SC vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Lexus SC is newer by 2 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus SC weights approximately 215 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 1998 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 1998 Lexus SC. 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, 1998 Lexus SC (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus SC | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lexus | Opel |
| Model | SC | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2400 mm |
