2012 Opel Astra vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1999 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 15 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus IS. 1999 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2012 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2012 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Opel Astra | 1999 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Opel | Lexus |
| Model | Astra | IS |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| 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 | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
