2003 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 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 80 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (73 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 120 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 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 @ 4600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lexus | Opel |
| Model | IS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
