2009 Lexus IS vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 315 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Opel Vectra, 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 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lexus | Opel |
| Model | IS | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2231 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 15.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
