The car began to be produced in Brazil for Latin American markets, after being introduced in Aruba, September 1991.

Other vehicles, derived from the same platform were the Lancia Dedra (Tempra's most similar cousin, sharing all mechanical components) and the Alfa Romeo 155.

Only two trim levels were available in the early years of production: standard (S) and SX, both reasonably equipped considering the Tempra's low price.

SX models for example, featured power windows, power locks, adjustable seat belts and steering wheel, front fog lights, body coloured bumpers, velvet upholstery, a futuristic digital dashboard and many other standard extras.

They were also available with optional extras like anti-lock brakes, alloy wheels, sunroof and electronic climate control.

The Turkish 16 valve Tempra was not sold in the rest of Europe; it was also available with station wagon bodystyle and has a 148 PS (109 kW) engine.

[13] There was also a panel van bodystyle sold in the domestic market of Italy called the Marengo, a name also used before with the Regata Weekend and later again with the Marea Wagon.

Quattroruote, a popular Italian motoring magazine, reported some failures and defects with the Tempra.

All these were aided by a favourable aerodynamic (Cx 0.297) and only 17.2 PS subtracted at 100 km/h (62 mph), which was the best result among all the rivals.

[15] Another advantage was the galvanized structure, which allowed the car to be resistant against rust over time, showing good resilience to weather and bad climate conditions after many years.

The luggage capacity, especially in the Marengo panel van, was also one of the favourites among corporations, especially with the 1,929 cc diesel engine, and the interior space was comfortable for five persons during long travels.

In Brazil, 204,795 Tempras were produced in eight years,[17] and in Turkey, where the car was manufactured by Tofaş from November 1990[18] until 1999, 129,590 were made.