Can anyone convince me why, besides the obvious reason of better charge life, I should buy an Optima battery vs. using an old Die Hard for a second aux. battery in my van?  What are the problems with using a conventional battery?  I understand the Optima is safer because it is sealed but do I really need to be that worried?

Thanks -Dave 
Duluth MN Where the temp tomorrow is going to be a sultry 40F.  Warm enough finally to work on the Van!
87 Syncro Westy with 177K