1998 Seat Alhambra vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Seat Alhambra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Seat Alhambra would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1998 Seat Alhambra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Seat Alhambra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Seat Alhambra weights approximately 240 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Seat Alhambra. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Seat Alhambra. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1998 Seat Alhambra has manual transmission. 1998 Seat Alhambra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Seat Alhambra | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Seat | Kia |
| Model | Alhambra | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |
