1999 Lexus IS vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1999 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 15 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus IS | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lexus | Opel |
| Model | IS | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
