Lada Vaz 2101 (Lada Zhiguli) Overview
The Lada Vaz 2101, commonly known as the Lada Zhiguli, was a popular compact sedan produced by the Russian automaker Lada from 1970 to 1988. It was renowned for its ruggedness, simplicity, and affordability, making it one of the most iconic cars in the Soviet automotive industry.
Performance
Equipped with a 1.2-liter inline-four petrol engine, the Lada Zhiguli delivered approximately 58 horsepower and 88 Nm of torque. Its performance was modest, with a top speed of around 130 km/h (81 mph) and an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 22 seconds. While not designed for speed, it was renowned for its reliability and ease of maintenance.
Chassis & Body
The Lada Zhiguli featured a monocoque chassis with a classic sedan body style, offering seating for up to five passengers. It had four doors, providing convenient access to the interior and rear seats.
Transmission & Drivetrain
With a 4-speed manual transmission sending power to the rear wheels, the Lada Zhiguli offered a simple and robust drivetrain configuration. This rear-wheel-drive setup contributed to its durability and ease of maintenance.
Brakes & Suspension
The braking system of the Lada Zhiguli consisted of drum brakes all around, providing sufficient stopping power for its speed and weight. Its suspension setup included independent MacPherson struts at the front and a semi-independent suspension with trailing arms at the rear, offering a balance between ride comfort and handling.
Interior & Features
Inside, the Lada Zhiguli accommodated up to five passengers with seating covered in vinyl and cloth materials. Its interior was basic yet functional, with features such as manual windows and manual door locks. Infotainment options were minimal, with an AM radio available as an optional extra.
Lada Vaz 2101 (Lada Zhiguli) Price
One of the defining characteristics of the Lada Zhiguli was its affordability. In the USA, it was priced at approximately $1,000, while in India, it ranged from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 1.5 lakh. This affordability, coupled with its ruggedness and ease of maintenance, contributed to its widespread popularity, especially in regions with challenging road conditions.
Lada Vaz 2101 Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers.
- Rugged and reliable design, suitable for harsh driving conditions.
- Simple mechanical components, easy to maintain and repair.
- Comfortable seating for up to five passengers.
Cons:
- Modest performance and acceleration.
- Basic interior lacking modern amenities.
- Limited safety features compared to contemporary cars.
- Not designed for high-speed driving or long-distance travel.
