The Tofas Tempra Station Wagon 2.0 i (130 Hp) represents a significant iteration of the Tempra line, produced from 1990 to 2001. As a practical and relatively affordable family vehicle, it played a crucial role in the Turkish automotive market, offering a spacious estate body style based on the Fiat Tipo platform. This variant, equipped with the 176A.000 engine, occupied a mid-to-upper position within the Tempra range, providing a balance of performance and practicality for buyers seeking a versatile vehicle. The Tempra, and particularly the station wagon, became a common sight on Turkish roads, known for its durability and ease of maintenance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tofas |
| Model | Tempra |
| Generation | Tempra Station Wagon |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1990 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 147.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 159 Nm @ 3300 rpm (117.27 lb.-ft. @ 3300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1075 kg (2369.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4472 mm (176.06 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2540 mm (100 in.) |
| Front track | 1423 mm (56.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/60 R14 H |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tempra 2.0 i is the 176A.000, a 1995cc inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, derived from Fiat’s Tipo series, featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. The multi-port fuel injection system, a significant advancement over earlier carburetor setups, contributed to improved fuel efficiency and smoother power delivery. The engine’s 9.5:1 compression ratio was a standard figure for the time, balancing performance with the quality of available fuel in the Turkish market. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a blend of acceleration and highway cruising, though it wasn’t particularly sporty in its gearing.
Driving Characteristics
The 130 horsepower output of the 2.0-liter engine provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-displacement Tempra models. While not a sports car, the 2.0 i offered brisk acceleration and comfortable highway cruising. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, though the relatively long throw of the shifter wasn’t particularly engaging. Compared to the 1.6-liter versions, the 2.0 i felt significantly more capable when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but the suspension, while adequate, wasn’t particularly sophisticated, resulting in some body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Tempra 2.0 i Station Wagon typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features for its price point. These included power steering, central locking, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS), which was a relatively uncommon feature on vehicles in this segment during the 1990s. Interior appointments generally consisted of cloth upholstery, with options for upgraded materials available. Dashboard design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetics. Optional extras could include air conditioning, a radio/cassette player, and electric windows. The station wagon body style itself was a key feature, offering a large and practical cargo area.
Chassis & Braking
The Tempra Station Wagon utilized a relatively simple chassis design, featuring coil springs at all four corners. The front suspension employed MacPherson struts, while the rear utilized a twist beam setup. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The ABS system, when equipped, provided enhanced braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll, but their effectiveness was limited by the overall suspension design. The tires, typically 185/60 R14, were chosen for a balance of comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tofas Tempra 2.0 i Station Wagon was generally well-received in the Turkish market. Critics praised its spacious interior, practical cargo area, and relatively affordable price. Compared to the lower-displacement Tempra models, the 2.0 i offered a significant improvement in performance, making it a popular choice for families and those who frequently traveled long distances. However, it faced competition from other station wagons and hatchbacks available in Turkey at the time, including offerings from Renault and Opel. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and engine displacement, but it wasn’t a standout performer in this regard. Reliability was generally good, with the engine proving to be durable and relatively easy to maintain.
Legacy
The Tofas Tempra, and particularly the 2.0 i Station Wagon, holds a nostalgic place in the hearts of many Turkish car enthusiasts. Its robust construction and simple mechanicals have contributed to a surprisingly large number of examples remaining on the road today. The 176A.000 engine is known for its durability, and parts availability remains relatively good. In the used car market, Tempra 2.0 i Station Wagons are often sought after by those looking for an affordable and practical classic car. While not a collector’s item in the traditional sense, it represents a significant chapter in Turkish automotive history and a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-built, practical family vehicle.
