1996 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Seat Alhambra
To start off, 2001 Seat Alhambra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2001 Seat Alhambra. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 Seat Alhambra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Seat Alhambra weights approximately 169 kg more than 1996 BMW 520.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Seat Alhambra, 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, 2001 Seat Alhambra (214 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Seat Alhambra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2001 Seat Alhambra has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Seat Alhambra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2001 Seat Alhambra | |
| Make | BMW | Seat |
| Model | 520 | Alhambra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
