Spain vs Spain — 1996 vs 2013
| Ibiza Cupra Bocanegra | Leon Cupra 290 ST 4Drive | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 290 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,390 cc | 1,984 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.7 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 142 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 13.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,591 lbs | 3,296 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,469 mm | 2,636 mm |
| Length | 4,052 mm | 4,549 mm |
| Original MSRP | — | $42,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $16,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 4/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1996 SEAT Ibiza Cupra Bocanegra excels in lighter weight, better value, while the 2013 SEAT Leon Cupra 290 ST 4Drive stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1996 SEAT Ibiza Cupra Bocanegra and 2013 SEAT Leon Cupra 290 ST 4Drive share a manufacturer in SEAT, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the SEAT brand. The 2013 SEAT Leon Cupra 290 ST 4Drive holds a clear advantage in raw power with 290 hp compared to 180 hp, a 110-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the SEAT Ibiza Cupra uses a Inline-4 Turbo DOHC 16V displacing 1,390 cc, while the SEAT Leon Cupra 290 relies on a I4 DOHC Turbo with 1,984 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2013 SEAT Leon Cupra 290 ST 4Drive edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.7 seconds. The SEAT Ibiza Cupra carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 705 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2013 SEAT Leon Cupra 290 ST 4Drive commands a significant premium over the 1996 SEAT Ibiza Cupra Bocanegra, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.