The Tofas Kartal 1.6 I.E. (96 hp) was a variant of the Kartal, a station wagon produced by Turkish automaker Tofas between 1997 and 2001. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Kartal lineup, it provided a balance between affordability and performance, appealing to families and those needing a practical vehicle. The Kartal itself was based on the Fiat Tempra station wagon, a result of Tofas’ long-standing partnership with Fiat. This particular 1.6 I.E. version represented a step up from the base models, offering increased power and a more refined driving experience compared to the smaller engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tofas |
| Model | Kartal |
| Generation | Kartal |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 I.E (96 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| 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 | 11.5 kg/Hp, 87.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 96 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 124 Nm @ 3000 rpm (91.46 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 | 86.4 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 | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| 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 | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 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) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14 T |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kartal 1.6 I.E. was a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, often identified by its engine codes, utilized a single-point fuel injection system, a common feature for vehicles of its era and price point. While not as sophisticated as multi-point injection, it provided a reasonable balance of fuel efficiency and performance. The engine featured an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain, operating two valves per cylinder. The longitudinal engine placement, coupled with rear-wheel drive, was a carryover from the Fiat Tempra design. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with control over the engine’s power band. The engine produced 96 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 124 Nm (91.46 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine in the Kartal provided a noticeable improvement in performance over the smaller engine options. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 12.8 seconds, and it could reach a top speed of 104.39 mph. While not a sports car by any means, the 1.6 I.E. offered sufficient power for everyday driving and highway cruising, even when fully loaded. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a unique driving feel, offering a degree of handling balance not typically found in front-wheel-drive cars of this class. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power range, maximizing performance and fuel efficiency. The gear ratios were fairly widely spaced, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Kartal 1.6 I.E. typically came equipped with basic but functional features. Standard equipment included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Power steering was often included, making maneuvering easier, especially in urban environments. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was also a common feature, enhancing safety. Optional extras could include a radio/cassette player, upgraded interior trim, and sometimes even air conditioning, depending on the specific market and availability. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample space for passengers and cargo.
Chassis & Braking
The Kartal utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of a spring strut setup, while the rear employed a coil spring arrangement. The front brakes were disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in vehicles of this era. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, providing a reasonably smooth ride over uneven road surfaces. The car’s weight of around 2425 lbs contributed to its manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tofas Kartal 1.6 I.E. was generally well-received in the Turkish market as a practical and affordable family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, large trunk capacity, and relatively reliable engine. Compared to the base models with smaller engines, the 1.6 I.E. offered a significant performance boost, making it a more appealing option for those who frequently drove on highways or carried heavy loads. Compared to other station wagons available at the time, the Kartal offered a competitive price point and a unique rear-wheel-drive layout. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class, although not exceptional.
Legacy
The Tofas Kartal, and specifically the 1.6 I.E. variant, has become a popular classic car in Turkey. The engine, while not particularly high-tech, proved to be relatively durable and easy to maintain. Parts availability remains reasonably good, making it a viable option for enthusiasts and collectors. Today, well-maintained examples of the Kartal 1.6 I.E. are sought after by those looking for a nostalgic and affordable classic car. Its simple design and robust construction have contributed to its longevity and enduring appeal in the used car market. The Kartal represents a significant part of Turkey’s automotive history, and the 1.6 I.E. version stands out as a capable and well-rounded member of the lineup.
