1988 Toyota Carina 1.6 S Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 30.5 mpg US - 36.6 mpg UK - 7.7 L/100km, a weight of 2336 lbs (1060 kg), the Toyota Carina 1.6 S has a water cooling 4 cylinder DOHC16 valve engine, a Regular gasoline engine 4A-FHE. This engine 4A-FHE produces a maximum power of 111.5 PS (110 bhp - 82 kW) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 142.1 Nm (104.8 lb.ft - 14.5 kg.m) at 4800 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the front wheel drive (FF) with a 5MT gearbox. For stopping power, the Toyota Carina 1.6 S braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 165S on 13 inch rims at the rear and 165S on 13 inch rims at the front. Chassis details - Toyota Carina 1.6 S has strut coil spring rear suspension and strut coil spring front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 19, 2024

Introduction

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" encapsulates an era of innovation and driving excellence. As a prominent member of the Carina family, this iteration reflects Toyota's dedication to engineering precision and driver-centric design. With production spanning from May 1988 to May 1991, the 1.6 S model left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.

This compact sedan boasts an engaging Front-Wheel-Drive (FF) configuration, channeling its power through a responsive 5-speed manual transmission. Under its E-AT171 frame name, the Carina 1.6 S delivers a driving experience characterized by both efficiency and dynamism. Its 1587 cm3 engine imparts spirited performance while maintaining optimal fuel consumption.

Dimensionally, the Carina 1.6 S strikes a harmonious balance between interior comfort and exterior agility. Its exterior spans 442 cm in length, 169 cm in width, and stands at 137 cm in height. Inside, a spacious cabin welcomes passengers with dimensions that prioritize both legroom and headspace. The wheelbase stretches to 252.5 cm, enhancing stability and road-holding prowess.

Reflecting its sedan classification, the Carina 1.6 S comfortably accommodates five occupants across its four doors. Safety and maneuverability intertwine, as showcased by the 5.2-meter minimum turning circle. A noteworthy 15.8 US gallon fuel tank capacity fuels journeys, bolstered by economical fuel consumption rates tailored to diverse driving conditions.

The heart of the Carina 1.6 S is its 4A-FHE engine, an engineering marvel delivering 111.5 PS of power at 6000 rpm and a peak torque of 142.1 Nm at 4800 rpm. This 4-cylinder DOHC16 valve engine thrives on regular gasoline, demonstrating efficiency through various driving modes. The technical prowess extends to the suspension, with strut coil springs enhancing ride comfort and handling precision.

Outside, the Carina 1.6 S features standard power-adjustable door mirrors and optional front and rear spoilers. Interior elements embrace functionality, including power windows, standard power steering, and a tachometer. Safety considerations encompass the absence of airbags and the inclusion of additional stop lights. While luxuries like automatic air conditioning are absent, the standard radio and optional autoreverse cassette deck cater to entertainment needs.

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" stands as a testament to Toyota's dedication to crafting vehicles that intertwine practicality, performance, and innovation. As this model continues to evoke nostalgic memories for some and intrigue for others, its legacy endures as a symbol of automotive excellence.

Model Overview

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" stands as a dynamic embodiment of Toyota's commitment to crafting vehicles that seamlessly blend performance, practicality, and innovation. This particular model, an integral part of the Carina series, was produced between May 1988 and May 1991, marking an era of automotive advancement.

As a compact sedan, the Carina 1.6 S exudes a balanced appeal, catering to individuals seeking an engaging driving experience without compromising on everyday usability. Its distinctive front-wheel-drive (FF) configuration, coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, delivers a spirited connection between driver and road. The E-AT171 frame name underpins its structural integrity, ensuring a stable and controlled ride.

The heart of the Carina 1.6 S lies in its engine bay, where the 4A-FHE engine reigns supreme. This powerplant, a water-cooled 4-cylinder with a DOHC16 valve configuration, offers a harmonious blend of power and efficiency. With a displacement of 1587 cm3, it propels the vehicle with an output of 111.5 PS at 6000 rpm. This potent performance is complemented by a torque of 142.1 Nm at 4800 rpm, ensuring responsive acceleration.

Fuel efficiency is a hallmark of the Carina 1.6 S, embracing both urban and highway driving scenarios. Its Regular gasoline-powered engine boasts impressive fuel consumption figures, attuned to varying modes. This efficiency is not achieved at the cost of performance, as the Carina 1.6 S maintains a compression ratio of 10, harnessing power while optimizing fuel usage.

On the exterior, the Carina 1.6 S strikes a harmonious balance between compact dimensions and an inviting presence. With an overall length of 442 cm, a width of 169 cm, and a height of 137 cm, it navigates urban environments with ease. Interior dimensions ensure a comfortable cabin, accommodating five passengers across four doors. The inclusion of a 15.8 US gallon fuel tank empowers extended journeys.

Safety and handling are paramount, with strut coil spring suspensions at both the front and rear enhancing ride comfort and stability. Standard features such as power-adjustable door mirrors contribute to the model's practicality. The absence of airbags is noteworthy, although the vehicle compensates with additional stop lights for improved visibility.

In summary, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" encapsulates Toyota's dedication to crafting vehicles that transcend mere transportation. Its fusion of performance, efficiency, and practicality paints a vivid picture of an era defined by automotive excellence. This model's legacy continues to captivate enthusiasts and stands as a testament to Toyota's commitment to innovation.

Generations Covered

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" represents a specific slice of the Carina lineage, encapsulating the essence of its generation. This model, produced from May 1988 to May 1991, falls within a particular era of automotive advancement that Toyota enthusiasts look back upon with nostalgia.

Within this timeframe, Toyota refined and harnessed their engineering expertise to create a car that blended contemporary design with functional features. The Carina 1.6 S showcased the technology and design sensibilities of its time, embodying the evolution of Toyota's approach to performance and practicality.

This generation of the Carina series bore the responsibility of carrying forward the reputation of its predecessors while incorporating modern design cues and innovative technology. With its compact sedan body type and front-wheel-drive (FF) configuration, the Carina 1.6 S catered to a wide range of drivers seeking a harmonious balance between everyday usability and driving engagement.

Under the hood, this generation embraced the 4A-FHE engine, a powerplant that epitomized the era's focus on efficiency and performance. Its 1587 cm3 displacement and DOHC16 valve configuration were reflective of Toyota's commitment to extracting optimal power from compact engines while maintaining fuel economy.

While the generation covered only a few years, it left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. From its exterior dimensions that balanced agility and presence, to its interior features aimed at enhancing driver and passenger comfort, the Carina 1.6 S encapsulated the design philosophies of its time. Safety features and technological amenities were integrated to create a well-rounded driving experience.

In essence, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" generation offers a glimpse into a pivotal period of automotive evolution. It symbolizes Toyota's dedication to refining their models to cater to changing driver needs and technological advancements. As this generation continues to hold significance for enthusiasts and collectors, it stands as a testament to the era's automotive ingenuity.

Engine Options

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" came equipped with a distinct engine option that defined its performance and efficiency characteristics. During this period, Toyota offered a single engine choice for this model, a testament to their engineering focus on delivering a well-rounded driving experience.

Under the hood of the Carina 1.6 S resided the 4A-FHE engine, a powerplant that embodied the era's emphasis on achieving a balance between power and fuel efficiency. This engine, with a displacement of 1587 cm3, harnessed the potential of its 4-cylinder configuration and DOHC16 valve setup to deliver a blend of power and responsiveness.

The 4A-FHE engine's design incorporated advancements that aimed to optimize combustion efficiency, resulting in not only commendable power output but also a noteworthy emphasis on fuel economy. The engine's performance was characterized by a maximum power output of 111.5 PS at 6000 rpm, providing ample acceleration for various driving scenarios.

Torque delivery played a significant role in the Carina 1.6 S's dynamic performance. The 4A-FHE engine generated a peak torque of 142.1 Nm at 4800 rpm, ensuring responsive acceleration across different speed ranges. This torque delivery, coupled with the engine's power output, offered a well-rounded driving experience that catered to both city driving and highway cruising.

Fuel efficiency was a focal point of the 4A-FHE engine, aligning with the era's growing awareness of environmental considerations. The engine's engineering, combined with Toyota's dedication to efficient design, resulted in fuel consumption figures that catered to urban and highway driving conditions. This balance of power and efficiency added to the Carina 1.6 S's appeal among drivers seeking both performance and responsible fuel usage.

In summary, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" stood out with its singular engine option, the 4A-FHE. This powerplant captured the essence of its time, offering a harmonious blend of power, torque, and fuel efficiency. As a result, the Carina 1.6 S delivered a driving experience that resonated with those looking for a well-rounded and dynamic compact sedan.

Fuel Efficiency

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" was designed with a keen focus on fuel efficiency, catering to drivers who sought both performance and responsible fuel consumption. This model exemplified Toyota's commitment to delivering a balanced driving experience that minimized the environmental footprint.

Central to the Carina 1.6 S's efficiency was its 4A-FHE engine, which incorporated advanced engineering to optimize fuel combustion. This resulted in commendable fuel consumption figures across various driving scenarios. The engine's design philosophy, aligned with Toyota's ethos, aimed to provide drivers with a practical and economical vehicle choice.

The 4A-FHE engine's efficiency was demonstrated through standardized testing modes, showcasing its adaptability to different driving conditions. In the 10/15 mode, the Carina 1.6 S achieved a fuel consumption rate of 30.5 mpg US or 36.6 mpg UK, making it an economical choice for city driving. In the 60 km/h mode, the efficiency was even more pronounced, with a fuel consumption rate of 54.7 mpg US or 65.6 mpg UK. These figures highlighted the Carina 1.6 S's ability to excel in various driving environments.

Toyota's dedication to responsible fuel usage was further evident in the Carina 1.6 S's compression ratio of 10. This ratio, a vital aspect of engine efficiency, contributed to optimal power extraction from the engine while maintaining fuel economy. This balance was a hallmark of the model's design, resonating with drivers who valued both performance and environmental consciousness.

In essence, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" encapsulated Toyota's commitment to fuel efficiency without compromising on driving dynamics. The engineering finesse behind the 4A-FHE engine and its associated systems showcased a model that delivered a rewarding driving experience while minimizing its impact on fuel consumption and emissions.

Performance Metrics

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" masterfully balanced its performance metrics to deliver a driving experience that merged power and agility. This model, emblematic of Toyota's engineering prowess, harnessed a blend of technological innovations and design finesse to create a dynamic compact sedan.

At the heart of the Carina 1.6 S's performance lay its 4A-FHE engine, which brought forth a harmonious marriage of power and fuel efficiency. With a displacement of 1587 cm3 and a DOHC16 valve configuration, the engine delivered a maximum power output of 111.5 PS at 6000 rpm. This power translated into responsive acceleration, enabling confident overtakes and brisk starts.

The engine's torque delivery played a pivotal role in the Carina 1.6 S's dynamic prowess. With a peak torque of 142.1 Nm at 4800 rpm, the vehicle exhibited a versatile performance range. From city cruising to highway maneuvers, the engine's torque curve ensured a responsive and engaging driving experience across different speed ranges.

The Carina 1.6 S's performance extended beyond its powerplant, encompassing handling and stability. The front-wheel-drive (FF) configuration, coupled with the 5-speed manual transmission, empowered drivers with precise control and maneuverability. The suspension system, featuring strut coil springs at both the front and rear, contributed to ride comfort and confident cornering.

In terms of dimensions, the Carina 1.6 S's compact exterior lent itself to agile navigation through urban environments. This characteristic, combined with the model's wheelbase of 252.5 cm, added to its stability at higher speeds. The vehicle's weight of 1060 kg contributed to its nimble nature, facilitating both spirited driving and efficient fuel consumption.

In essence, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" model's performance metrics were a reflection of Toyota's dedication to engineering excellence. The fusion of power, torque, and handling characteristics showcased a compact sedan that catered to drivers seeking a balance between performance and practicality. This generation of the Carina series continues to be a testament to Toyota's commitment to delivering vehicles that evoke driving pleasure and innovation.

Exterior Dimensions

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" exhibits exterior dimensions that capture the essence of its compact sedan classification. This model, an embodiment of Toyota's commitment to design innovation, strikes a harmonious balance between agility and presence, catering to diverse driving scenarios.

Spanning a length of 442 cm, the Carina 1.6 S's exterior dimensions render it versatile for urban navigation while providing ample cabin space. The width, measuring 169 cm, contributes to its road presence without compromising on maneuverability. The vehicle's height, standing at 137 cm, complements its aerodynamic design, contributing to reduced drag and enhanced fuel efficiency.

The exterior dimensions play a role in the Carina 1.6 S's ability to accommodate passengers comfortably. This is evident in the interior dimensions, where the interior length measures 187.5 cm, affording ample legroom for both driver and passengers. The width of 142 cm ensures a comfortable seating arrangement, and an interior height of 115 cm adds to the overall spaciousness.

The wheelbase, a crucial aspect of stability and handling, measures 252.5 cm. This dimension enhances the Carina 1.6 S's ability to maintain stability at higher speeds and navigate corners with precision. Additionally, the front and rear axle lengths of 147 cm and 144 cm, respectively, contribute to the vehicle's balanced weight distribution.

The Carina 1.6 S's stance is further accentuated by its 16 cm ride height, which offers a balanced compromise between ground clearance and aerodynamics. This dimension ensures that the vehicle is well-suited for a variety of road conditions while maintaining optimal fuel efficiency.

In summary, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" model's exterior dimensions are a testament to Toyota's dedication to crafting vehicles that cater to both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. The compact sedan's proportions strike a chord with drivers seeking a vehicle that seamlessly navigates urban environments while accommodating passengers with comfort and style.

Interior Space

Inside the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S," thoughtful design meets functional comfort to create an inviting interior space. This model, a testament to Toyota's commitment to driver and passenger satisfaction, offers dimensions that prioritize both legroom and headspace, contributing to an enhanced driving experience.

The Carina 1.6 S's interior dimensions reflect its sedan classification, catering to families, professionals, and enthusiasts alike. With an interior length of 187.5 cm, there's ample legroom for both driver and passengers, ensuring comfort during extended journeys. The width of 142 cm provides a sense of openness, allowing occupants to enjoy a relaxed and spacious seating arrangement.

A height of 115 cm contributes to the interior's inviting atmosphere, offering sufficient headroom for passengers. This dimension, combined with the well-designed cabin layout, ensures that even taller individuals can enjoy the Carina 1.6 S's interior without feeling cramped. This harmony between dimensions extends to the rear seats, where passengers can also appreciate the generous legroom and headspace.

The interior dimensions are complemented by a practical arrangement of features and controls. The ergonomically designed cabin facilitates ease of use, enhancing the driving experience. Elements such as power-adjustable seats, power windows, and standard power steering contribute to both convenience and comfort, catering to modern expectations.

Toyota's attention to detail is evident in the Carina 1.6 S's interior space, where every aspect has been carefully considered to ensure a satisfying journey. Whether it's daily commutes or longer road trips, this model's interior dimensions and features come together to create an environment that's as practical as it is comfortable, catering to diverse driver and passenger needs.

Trim Levels

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" offered a specific trim level that encapsulated the essence of its design philosophy and features. This trim level, known as the 1.6 S, catered to drivers seeking a well-rounded and dynamic driving experience, reflecting Toyota's dedication to engineering precision and driver-centric design.

As a standout member of the Carina family, the 1.6 S trim emphasized a balance between performance and practicality. This trim level encompassed features that enhanced the driving experience while maintaining an efficient and comfortable ride. With a production period from May 1988 to May 1991, the 1.6 S trim left a lasting impact on the automotive landscape.

Key features of the 1.6 S trim included a front-wheel-drive (FF) configuration paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. This combination provided a dynamic connection between the driver and the road, ensuring precise control and engaging handling. The trim's heart was its 4A-FHE engine, a powerplant designed to deliver a blend of power, torque, and fuel efficiency.

Inside the cabin, the 1.6 S trim offered practical features that catered to both driver and passengers. Elements such as power-adjustable door mirrors, a standard radio, and optional power windows contributed to a well-appointed interior. While airbags were absent, the model compensated with additional stop lights for improved safety visibility.

The exterior of the Carina 1.6 S featured both standard and optional elements that enhanced its appearance and functionality. Front and rear spoilers were available, contributing to the vehicle's aerodynamic profile. These features, combined with the model's compact dimensions, resulted in an exterior that balanced agility and road presence.

In essence, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" trim level embodied Toyota's commitment to delivering vehicles that embraced innovation, performance, and practicality. The 1.6 S trim's unique combination of features and design elements created a model that resonated with drivers seeking a dynamic driving experience without compromising on comfort and efficiency.

Wheel Options

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" offered a selection of wheel options that complemented its design and performance characteristics. These wheel choices added both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits to the model, contributing to an enhanced driving experience and road presence.

Wheel options for the Carina 1.6 S included variations in tire sizes and rim dimensions. These options allowed drivers to tailor the vehicle's appearance and performance to their preferences and driving needs. One of the available wheel configurations was 165S R13, a choice that balanced agility and comfort. Another option was 185 / 65 R14 85S, which offered a larger tire size for improved grip and stability.

The wheel options weren't just about aesthetics; they played a role in the Carina 1.6 S's overall performance and handling. Different tire sizes and rim dimensions could influence aspects such as ride comfort, road grip, and steering response. By offering multiple wheel choices, Toyota ensured that drivers could personalize their driving experience to align with their preferences and driving style.

These wheel options were a reflection of Toyota's commitment to providing drivers with choices that extended beyond mere aesthetics. The Carina 1.6 S's diverse wheel configurations catered to drivers who sought both functional benefits and visual enhancements, ensuring that the vehicle's performance, appearance, and road presence could be tailored to individual tastes.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" demonstrated a careful consideration for fuel efficiency through its fuel tank capacity. This model's fuel tank, a crucial component of its design, enabled drivers to embark on journeys with confidence, knowing that they had the capacity to cover significant distances before needing to refuel.

With a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 US gallons or 13.1 UK gallons (equivalent to approximately 60 liters), the Carina 1.6 S struck a balance between convenience and economy. This capacity allowed drivers to enjoy extended drives without the need for frequent refueling stops. Whether navigating through urban environments or embarking on highway journeys, the fuel tank capacity catered to various driving scenarios.

The thoughtful design of the fuel tank capacity reflected Toyota's commitment to creating vehicles that catered to practical considerations while aligning with the model's overall efficiency. The ability to cover ample distances on a single tank of fuel not only added convenience to the driving experience but also aligned with the model's focus on balancing performance with responsible fuel consumption.

In essence, the fuel tank capacity of the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" was a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering vehicles that addressed the needs of drivers seeking both performance and practicality. The well-calibrated fuel tank capacity ensured that drivers could enjoy the Carina 1.6 S's dynamic driving experience without compromising on the convenience of extended journeys.

Fuel Consumption

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" excelled in fuel consumption, a testament to Toyota's dedication to engineering vehicles that balanced performance with responsible fuel usage. This model's fuel efficiency was a result of meticulous design and technological advancements that aimed to deliver an economical driving experience without compromising on power.

The Carina 1.6 S's fuel consumption was tested under various modes to accurately represent its efficiency across different driving scenarios. In the 10/15 mode, the vehicle achieved an impressive fuel consumption rate of 30.5 mpg US or 36.6 mpg UK. This highlighted its capability to navigate urban environments with commendable efficiency, making it an ideal choice for daily commutes.

Further emphasizing its fuel-efficient nature, the Carina 1.6 S excelled in the 60 km/h mode, achieving a remarkable fuel consumption rate of 54.7 mpg US or 65.6 mpg UK. This demonstrated the model's ability to deliver exceptional fuel economy even during highway cruising, contributing to reduced fuel costs and fewer emissions.

The efficiency of the Carina 1.6 S was a result of various factors, including the engine's design, its compression ratio, and the vehicle's aerodynamic profile. Toyota's commitment to optimizing combustion efficiency while harnessing power played a pivotal role in achieving these fuel consumption figures.

In summary, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" set a benchmark for fuel consumption within its class, showcasing Toyota's dedication to creating vehicles that catered to both driving enthusiasts and those conscious of their environmental impact. Its ability to deliver exceptional fuel efficiency without compromising on performance stood as a testament to Toyota's engineering excellence and commitment to sustainable driving.

Safety Features

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" prioritized safety through a range of features that contributed to a secure driving experience. While this model focused on performance and practicality, Toyota ensured that safety considerations were an integral part of its design, catering to the well-being of both drivers and passengers.

While more advanced safety features that are common today were not prevalent during this period, the Carina 1.6 S integrated several elements to enhance safety visibility. One of these features was the availability of additional stop lights, contributing to improved visibility to drivers following the vehicle. This added an extra layer of safety awareness, especially during sudden braking situations.

The Carina 1.6 S also featured standard safety components such as a sturdy frame that provided structural integrity. While features like airbags were not included, Toyota compensated with measures such as the durable frame design, enhancing the vehicle's ability to withstand collisions and impacts.

The model's compact sedan body type and responsive handling characteristics also contributed to safety. The Carina 1.6 S's agile nature facilitated maneuvering through traffic and navigating tight spaces, enhancing driver control and accident avoidance.

It's important to note that safety standards and features have evolved significantly since the 1988-1991 period. While the Carina 1.6 S's safety features may seem modest by today's standards, they were reflective of the automotive safety considerations of that time.

In essence, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" incorporated safety measures that aligned with the era's standards, ensuring that drivers and passengers could embark on their journeys with a sense of security. While the safety landscape has evolved over the years, the model's commitment to addressing safety within the context of its time remains a testament to Toyota's dedication to responsible engineering.

Conclusion

The "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" encapsulates an era of automotive design that emphasizes a harmonious blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality. This model, produced during a span of three years, carries with it Toyota's commitment to engineering excellence and driver-centric innovation.

With its distinct 1.6 S trim level, this Carina variant offered drivers a dynamic driving experience that balanced power and fuel efficiency. The 4A-FHE engine, a highlight of this model, harnessed the potential of its DOHC16 valve configuration to deliver responsive acceleration and impressive torque delivery. The model's carefully calibrated fuel tank capacity and efficient fuel consumption rates showcased Toyota's dedication to practicality and responsible driving.

Inside, the Carina 1.6 S's cabin dimensions catered to both driver and passengers, ensuring comfort and space. While safety features were in line with the standards of the time, the model incorporated elements such as additional stop lights and a durable frame to enhance safety awareness and structural integrity.

The Carina 1.6 S's exterior and wheel options were designed to reflect a balance between road presence and agility. These features, combined with its compact dimensions, made the model well-suited for urban driving and beyond.

In essence, the "1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S" holds a special place in automotive history as a model that captures the spirit of its time. It resonates with drivers seeking a vehicle that encompasses performance, efficiency, and practicality. Toyota's dedication to crafting vehicles that cater to diverse driving needs is evident in this model, which remains a testament to the brand's enduring commitment to engineering precision and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1988-1991 Toyota Carina 1.6 S