1997 Seat Alhambra I (7M) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The SEAT Alhambra I (7M) has a curb weight ranging from 1638 to 1754 kilograms (3611 to 3866 pounds), depending on the specific trim and equipment. The vehicle's maximum permissible weight, or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), is 2400 kilograms (5291 pounds). This weight capacity supports its role as a versatile minivan designed to carry passengers and cargo efficiently while maintaining safe driving dynamics.

With all seats in use, the SEAT Alhambra I provides a luggage capacity of 256 liters (approximately 9 cubic feet), which is adequate for typical daily needs and smaller trips. However, the interior is highly flexible: folding the rear seats dramatically increases the cargo space to between 852 liters and 1597 liters (about 30 to 56.4 cubic feet). This adaptability is excellent for transporting larger items or luggage during family travel, enhancing its practical appeal.

The SEAT Alhambra I (7M) supports rim sizes of 15 and 16 inches, giving some choice depending on style preferences and optional equipment packages. Corresponding tire sizes include 195/65 R15 and 205/60 R16. These tire configurations contribute to a balance of ride comfort and handling suitable for a family minivan, while also allowing for some customization to meet driving conditions or aesthetic preferences.

The SEAT Alhambra I, with maximum dimensions around 4620 mm (181.9 inches) in length, 1810 mm (71.3 inches) in width, and 1730 mm (68.1 inches) in height, generally fits inside a standard single-car garage. A typical garage width is about 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) with a length of around 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) and a height over 2 meters (6.5 feet). Given these figures, the Alhambra I fits comfortably, though owners should consider additional space for door clearance and ease of parking.

The SEAT Alhambra I was introduced as a new generation rather than a direct facelift of an older SEAT model. It shares its platform with the Volkswagen Sharan and Ford Galaxy of the same era, positioning it competitively in the minivan segment. Compared to these siblings, its dimensions are very similar, with minor variations tailored to brand-specific styling and equipment. Relative to older compact MPVs and some predecessors in the segment, the Alhambra I offered more interior space and flexible seating configurations, making it a strong contender in its class during its production run.

The SEAT Alhambra I is designed as a seven-seater minivan with significant flexibility in its interior layout. Its seats can be folded down or removed to create extra cargo space, with the total luggage capacity ranging from 256 liters (with all seats upright) to as much as 1597 liters (with rear seats folded). This adaptability makes it ideal for family use, allowing owners to switch between passenger transport and larger cargo hauling as needed, an important feature that boosted its appeal in the competitive MPV market.

During the late 1990s, minivans like the SEAT Alhambra I, Volkswagen Sharan, and Ford Galaxy shared similar dimensions due to joint development efforts. The Alhambra’s length of approximately 4620 mm (181.9 inches), width of 1810 mm (71.3 inches), and height around 1730 mm (68.1 inches) placed it squarely within typical minivan sizes of that era. Compared to competitors outside of this collaboration, its size was practical without being oversized, aligning well for families needing space without sacrificing drivability.

The SEAT Alhambra I came equipped with 15-inch or 16-inch rims, paired with 195/65 R15 or 205/60 R16 tires. The 15-inch tire combo tends to emphasize ride comfort and durability, suitable for everyday family use across various road conditions. Larger 16-inch rims offer a slightly sportier appearance and can marginally improve handling responsiveness. Both sizes are balanced for a minivan and contribute to stable driving dynamics while supporting the vehicle's weight and intended utility.

The production period of 1996 to 2000 for the SEAT Alhambra I marked its initial market introduction as SEAT’s entry into the large MPV market segment. This time frame includes the first generation's entire span, during which the model established itself as a competitive family minivan offering flexibility, German-engineered platform reliability (shared with Volkswagen and Ford), and a practical design. This era also set the foundation for future evolutions of the Alhambra with better features and updated styling in subsequent generations.