2011 Lexus IS vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 745 kg more than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall 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, 2011 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Lexus IS | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Lexus | Vauxhall |
| Model | IS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1801 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1425 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2728 mm | 2520 mm |
