2009 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 225 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS. 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, 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2009 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:
2009 Opel Astra | 2003 Lexus IS | |
Make | Opel | Lexus |
Model | Astra | IS |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 262 Nm | 196 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |