The Tofas Kartal 1.6 SLX (96 hp) was a popular station wagon produced by the Turkish automotive manufacturer Tofas between 1986 and 1995. It represented a significant upgrade within the Kartal range, offering increased performance and a more refined driving experience compared to the lower-spec models. The Kartal itself was based on the Fiat 131, a vehicle widely licensed and produced across several countries, and played a crucial role in providing affordable family transportation in Turkey during a period of economic change. The 1.6 SLX trim occupied a mid-range position in the Kartal lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a balance between practicality, performance, and cost.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tofas |
| Model | Kartal |
| Generation | Kartal |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 SLX (96 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1986 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 168 km/h (104.39 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 124.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 96 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 2900 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 2900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1581 cm3 (96.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.4 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 | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1060 kg (2336.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 846 l (29.88 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4396 mm (173.07 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 (Back) track | 1327 mm (52.24 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 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 | 185/70 R14 S |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kartal 1.6 SLX was a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, derived from the Fiat 131’s powerplant, featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Crucially, the SLX utilized a carburetor for fuel delivery, a common feature for vehicles of this era and market segment. While not as efficient or precise as fuel injection, carburetors were relatively inexpensive to manufacture and maintain. The engine produced 96 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 132 Nm (97.36 lb-ft) of torque at 2900 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for the 1.6 SLX, providing a reasonable spread of gears for both city driving and highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The Kartal 1.6 SLX offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered 1.3-liter versions. Acceleration to 60 mph took approximately 12.7 seconds, and it could achieve a top speed of around 104 mph. While not a sports car by any means, the 1.6 SLX provided sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers and comfortable highway travel, even when fully loaded. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced feel, although the relatively simple suspension setup meant that handling was not particularly sharp. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, maximizing performance. The gear ratios were fairly widely spaced, prioritizing fuel economy at lower speeds and providing adequate acceleration in higher gears.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The SLX trim level represented a well-equipped version of the Kartal. Standard features typically included cloth upholstery, a basic instrument cluster, and a four-spoke steering wheel. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Optional extras could include a radio, upgraded speakers, and sometimes even air conditioning, depending on the year and market. The exterior featured chrome trim, body-colored bumpers, and often, hubcaps. The SLX trim also often included upgraded door panels and interior lighting compared to the base models.
Chassis & Braking
The Kartal 1.6 SLX utilized a relatively simple chassis design. The front suspension consisted of a strut setup, while the rear employed a coil spring arrangement. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride, but it wasn’t particularly sophisticated in terms of handling. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available as an option, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The tires were typically 185/70 R14 size, providing a reasonable balance between grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tofas Kartal 1.6 SLX was generally well-received in the Turkish market. It offered a practical and affordable solution for families needing a spacious and reliable vehicle. Critics praised its durability and relatively low running costs. Compared to the base 1.3-liter models, the 1.6 SLX offered a significant performance improvement, making it a more appealing option for those who frequently drove on highways or carried heavy loads. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Renault 12, the Kartal offered a competitive level of equipment and performance at a similar price point. Fuel economy was reasonable for the time, averaging around 35.6 US mpg.
Legacy
The Tofas Kartal, and specifically the 1.6 SLX variant, holds a nostalgic place in the hearts of many Turkish car enthusiasts. Its simple, robust design made it a reliable workhorse for years. While not known for its cutting-edge technology, the Kartal’s affordability and practicality ensured its popularity. Today, well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly collectible. The 1.6-liter engine, while carbureted, proved to be relatively durable, and parts availability remains reasonable in Turkey. The Kartal 1.6 SLX represents a significant chapter in Turkish automotive history, embodying a period of economic development and providing affordable transportation for a growing population.
