The Tofas Kartal 1.6 i SLX, produced between 1996 and 2001, represents a significant iteration of the Kartal model, a popular station wagon primarily sold in the Turkish domestic market. Built under license from Fiat, the Kartal was a mainstay of Turkish automotive landscape for decades, offering affordable and practical transportation. The 1.6 i SLX trim occupied a mid-range position within the Kartal lineup, offering a balance between performance, features, and cost. It was positioned above the base models and below the more sparsely equipped versions, appealing to families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tofas |
| Model | Kartal |
| Type | 1.6 i SLX (83 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 168 km/h (104.39 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 113.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 83 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 52.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3000 rpm (92.2 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1581 cm3 (96.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.46 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 67.4 mm (2.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Kerb Weight | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 846 l (29.88 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2054 l (72.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4360 mm (171.65 in.) |
| Width | 1642 mm (64.65 in.) |
| Height | 1496 mm (58.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2490 mm (98.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1386 mm (54.57 in.) |
| Rear track | 1327 mm (52.24 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kartal 1.6 i SLX is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, based on Fiat’s well-established designs, utilized a single-point fuel injection system. While not as sophisticated as multi-point injection, it provided a reasonable balance of fuel efficiency and performance for the target market. The engine featured a two-valve per cylinder configuration, contributing to its simplicity and ease of maintenance. The engine code is not widely documented, but it falls within the family of Fiat-derived engines used extensively in Tofas vehicles during this period. The 83 horsepower output at 5500 rpm and 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm were typical figures for engines of this displacement and technology in the late 1990s. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine, paired with a five-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 12.8 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 104 mph. The rear-wheel-drive configuration offered a unique driving experience, particularly in slippery conditions, but also required a degree of driver skill. Compared to the lower-powered 1.4-liter versions, the 1.6 i SLX offered noticeably improved acceleration and highway cruising ability. However, it lacked the punch of more modern engines or the torque of diesel alternatives. The five-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing reasonable gear spacing for both city driving and highway travel. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and everyday usability rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The SLX trim level offered a step up in terms of features compared to the base Kartal models. Standard equipment typically included features like power steering, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. The dashboard layout was functional, prioritizing usability over aesthetics. Optional extras available for the SLX trim could include air conditioning, electric windows, and upgraded audio systems. The SLX trim aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle for families and individuals seeking a practical and affordable station wagon.
Chassis & Braking
The Kartal 1.6 i SLX utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of a spring strut setup, while the rear employed a coil spring arrangement. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, but handling was not particularly sporty. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. While adequate for normal driving conditions, the braking performance was not as refined as more modern systems. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature, enhancing braking stability, especially on slippery surfaces. The Kartal’s suspension was tuned for comfort and load-carrying capacity, reflecting its role as a practical family vehicle.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tofas Kartal 1.6 i SLX was well-received in the Turkish market, where it was valued for its affordability, practicality, and reliability. Critics generally praised its spacious interior, large trunk capacity, and relatively low running costs. Compared to other trims, the 1.6 i SLX offered a noticeable improvement in performance, making it a popular choice for those who frequently drove on highways or carried heavy loads. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and age, typically around 30-35 mpg. While not as fuel-efficient as diesel alternatives, the 1.6 i SLX offered a smoother and quieter driving experience.
Legacy
The Tofas Kartal, and specifically the 1.6 i SLX variant, holds a significant place in Turkish automotive history. Its robust and simple design contributed to its long-term reliability, and many examples remain on the road today. The 1.6-liter engine, while not particularly advanced, proved to be durable and relatively easy to maintain. In the used car market, the Kartal 1.6 i SLX is often sought after by enthusiasts and those looking for a classic Turkish vehicle. Its affordability and practicality continue to make it an appealing option for those seeking a reliable and versatile station wagon. The Kartal’s legacy is one of providing affordable and dependable transportation to generations of Turkish drivers.
