2001 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 50 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (170 Nm). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Astra | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Opel | Lexus |
| Model | Astra | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
