2001 Lexus IS vs. 2009 Opel Astra

To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 225 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS.

Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Lexus IS 2009 Opel Astra
Make Lexus Opel
Model IS Astra
Year Released 2001 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1988 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 201 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 247 Nm 262 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 1950 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1400 kg 1625 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