Registered turnout was a record low at the time for a nationwide election held in Spain, with abstention peaking at 45.3%.

[2][3][4] This was said to have influenced the election's outcome, which had resulted in a sizeable PSOE win and a collapse in support for both the PP and CDS.

Voting was on the basis of universal suffrage, which comprised all nationals over 18 years of age and in full enjoyment of their political rights.

In order to be entitled to run, parties, federations, coalitions and groupings of electors needed to secure the signature of at least 15,000 registered electors; this requirement could be lifted and replaced through the signature of at least 50 elected officials—deputies, senators, MEPs or members from the legislative assemblies of autonomous communities or from local city councils.

The highest percentage figure in each polling survey is displayed with its background shaded in the leading party's colour.