Until what year were high-quality vases 2101 produced. The history of "Zhiguli": a symbol of the past century
3.7 / 5 ( 3 voices)
The life of the VAZ 2101 car began on April 19, 1970. Then the production conveyor of the Volga Automobile Plant produced the first batch of six cars, paving the way for the popularity of this vehicle both in the USSR and abroad. The whole.
Car history
The creation of "2101" was preceded by a whole chain of organizational and technical measures, from the founding of the plant itself, to cooperation with various foreign companies, primarily with the Italian plant FIAT.
It was the FIAT 124, which was recognized as the most demanded, that was supposed to become the prototype of the new Soviet car. But in the process of developing a new concept and testing FIAT 124, it was revealed that the technical characteristics of the latter did not correspond to the road conditions in the Soviet Union:
- Under heavy use, the body and the weak suspension did not provide the required strength;
- The ground clearance was understated and did not meet the off-road requirement;
- There were no elements to ensure the towing of the vehicle in case of a breakdown on the road.
In close cooperation, Italian engineers took an active part in the development of the new model and more than eight hundred changes were made. For instance:
- The rear wheels have drum brakes suitable for bad roads;
- The rear suspension has been completely redesigned;
- The front suspension has been reinforced;
- Strengthened adhesion and improved operation of the 2101 gearbox synchronizers;
- The salon could become sleeping, thanks to the transformation of the seats;
- A new overhead motor was installed.
As a result, in the new car, only the appearance remained from the Italian. Tests carried out with the first six machines showed reliability and good cross-country ability, so the subsequent modifications were small.
2101 - received the official name "Zhiguli" after the name of the small mountains beyond the Volga, not far from the car plant, which is located in the city of Togliatti. The people gave the car a simple, respectful, memorable name "one". Later in the 80s, against the background of a decline in prestige, it was named "kopeck". Years of issue: 1970 - 1982. During this time, more than 2, 7 million copies were produced.
Exterior
The exterior of the "penny" sedan largely corresponded to the "FIAT 124" prototype. Affected by the influence of Italian designers. Well-developed structural lines, body relief, graceful features demonstrated a high culture of construction aimed at ensuring driving and operating comfort.
One of the leading testers of the plant, Vadim Kotlyarov, expressed his feelings in this way when he was closely acquainted with the "penny":
To say that she impressed me is to say nothing. She literally stuns in appearance ... The overall level of performance was so high that they completely overshadow all the minor flaws.
The exterior design of "2101" was introduced with handles recessed into the doors to prevent injury, bumpers were fitted with "fangs" buffers, a round rear-view mirror was installed on the left front fender in front of the driver's door, and a corporate logo was attached to the radiator grill.
Double sidelights, include dimensions, direction indicators. Exterior features can be seen in the photo of the "2101" model. In 1974, the plant began to produce an improved model. The bumper bumpers were removed, but a solid rubber pad was installed, new taillights were applied, and new trim elements were used.
Vehicle dimensions
Looking at the drawing "2101", it must be admitted that the dimensions, arrangement of all parts, body elements are harmonious and correspond to the classical scheme. This affected the fact that at present the "penny" is a long-liver, it is respected, respectfully called "classic".
Dimensions VAZ-2101 Interior
In the interior of the car "2101" the principle of minimalism has been preserved. The front panel is a metal frame under a special decorative coating. It includes a rectangular gauge block opposite the steering wheel. To the right are located the heating and ventilation controls:
- Ventilation ducts (deflectors);
- Heater control levers.
The levers of the air damper and heater valve drive ensure the required temperature regime of the microclimate. Deflectors allow the supply air to be directed in any direction.
Metallized dashboard trim frame. In its plane there are: a niche for a radio receiver, a glove box (glove compartment), an ashtray. Built-in ashtrays have rear doors. Levers for turning, headlights, and a wiper are installed under the steering wheel. Clutch, gas, brake levers, floor-mounted glass washer button.
The inner side of the doors, ergonomic seats are finished with high-quality leatherette. The chairs are equipped with adjusting elements that can be transformed into sleeping places. A well-thought-out heating system, interior ventilation, an air supply mode that excludes fogging of the windows, wide seats in sufficient living space, and sound insulation provided the level of comfort at which the driver and passengers felt satisfaction. The trunk is rational and spacious.
Car tuning
Car tuning usually involves revision, modernization, and correction of appearance defects. This refers to changes in the condition of the car body, interior, chassis, engine. Usually, work begins with replacing rubber and discs. Forged wheels are the most durable and reliable, but more expensive than alloy wheels.
Complete with wide tires, after the reconstruction of the wheel arches, they look equally impressive, but the question of the price is up to the car enthusiast. Good optics and LED backlighting add additional attractiveness to the exterior, but excessive enthusiasm for backlighting will likely indicate bad taste.
You can think of replacing the bumper as the most outstanding body kit, for example, a voluminous bumper. This will improve aerodynamics and create a sporty and challenging look. In the cabin, you can install a music center with a subwoofer, replace the dashboard. A significant contribution to the interior is made by the upholstery of the passenger compartment, creating a special flavor and improving aesthetics, paying attention to the refinement of the owner's taste.
The body "VAZ 2101" is the primary goal of the changes. There are two directions to choose from:
- Retro- for those who with trepidation perceives the invariability of the external appearance of the car;
- Engineering- for lovers of modern forms in which you can express your own individuality.
This could include:
- Strengthening the rigidity of the body, as an important part of the modernization process, to extend the life of the machine and improve reliability;
- Changing the previous appearance by installing decorative elements, replacing the bumper, installing a spoiler and skirt, airbrushing;
- Deep tuning of the car body radically changing the design of the "2101".
Often, the bottom of the "VAZ 2101" needs radical restoration. Such work requires skill, good knowledge of the body structure and the necessary set of tools: a semi-automatic welding machine for welding in a carbon dioxide environment, a grinder with a set of cutting and grinding wheels, a drill, a jack, wooden blocks, clamps, wrenches, various chisels, pliers, painting materials ...
The tuning of the VAZ 2101 salon is a godsend for an original automobile designer. An extensive field for self-expression is provided in the range of high quality finishing materials, for example: seat covers made of genuine leather with special impregnation, the use of synthetic Alcantara fabric with suede properties, resistant to various influences. This finish will add sophistication to the interior.
Revolutionary changes can be aimed at:
- Harmonious selection of colors;
- Reconstruction of the driver's seat, dashboard (installation of expressive instrument scales with bright, but not dazzling backlighting);
- Replacing the front seats with modern chairs with a wide range of adjustments, heating and ventilation attributes;
- Giving the rear seats anatomical shapes;
- Installation of climate control;
- Installation of a subwoofer in the trunk of a "VAZ 2101";
- Replacement of mechanical glass lifters with electric lifters.
If the efforts, time, funds embodied in tuning have brought joy to the car enthusiast and others, then such costs can be considered a successful investment in a worthwhile business.
The VAZ 2101 engine undergoes tuning if the goal is to increase its power.
The method presented here does not include cardinal changes to the motor.
It provides for:
- Replacing the standard air filter with a "zero" one, which, according to experts, contributes to an increase in power by 3 - 5 l / s. Some argue that such a replacement is only justified for a modified "sports" engine;
- Installation of a straight-through muffler;
- Removing roughness in the manifold, polishing the channels of the cylinder head, which increases the engine power by 5 - 8 l / s;
- Installation of a turbocharged compressor.
Specifications
Engine "2101" - the ancestor for all models - carburetor. The camshaft is overhead. The drive of the timing mechanism is chain. The resource of the motor is more than 18 thousand kilometers. The assembled engine, together with the clutch and gearbox, is attached to the front and rear cross members through three shock-absorbing mounts. The clutch is dry, permanently closed, single-plate. Independent suspension with spring and telescopic shock absorber.
| Power unit | |
| Engine model | 2101 |
| Cylinder diameter and piston stroke, mm | 76x66 |
| Working volume, l | 1,2 |
| Compression ratio | 8,5 |
| Rated power, l / s | 58,7 |
| Maximum torque, kgf / m | 8,7 |
| The order of the cylinders | 1–3–4–2 |
| Transmission | |
| Clutch | single disc with central pressure spring |
| Gearbox VAZ 2101 | mechanical, three-way, four-stage |
| Cardan transmission | two shafts with intermediate elastic support |
| main gear | conical, hypoid |
| Chassis | |
| Front wheel suspension | independent, on wishbones, with coil springs, telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers and anti-roll bar |
| Rear wheel suspension | dependent, rigid beam connected to the body with one transverse and four longitudinal rods, with coil springs and with hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers |
| Wheels | disc stamped |
| Steering | |
| Steering gear reducer | globoidal worm with two-ridge roller |
| ratio | 16,4 |
| Steering drive | three-link, consists of one middle and two lateral symmetrical rods, bipod, pendulum arm and swing arms |
| Brake system | |
| Front brakes | disk |
| Rear brakes | drum with self-centering pads and rear brake pressure regulator |
| Service brake drive | foot hydraulic, double-circuit |
| Parking brake | manual, with a cable drive on the rear brake pads |
| Performance data | |
| The volume of the VAZ 2101 gas tank, l | 39 |
| Fuel consumption "2101" in the city | 9.4 l / 100 km |
| Fuel consumption on the highway | 6.9 l / 100 km |
| Acceleration time (0-100 km / h) | 22 sec. |
| Clearance, mm | 170 |
| Curb vehicle weight | 955 kg |
| Tire size | 155 SR13 |
| Turning radius, m | 5.6 |
| Curb weight, kg | 1355 |
Modifications
- 2101 - Basic model. Four doors. "Sedan". It was produced in very small quantities as a "limousine" and "pickup". Power 58.7 l / s.
- 2102 - "Universal". Graduated from 1971 until 1985 For the carriage of goods and passengers. The suspension springs and shock absorbers are reinforced. The rear seat can be folded down to increase the luggage compartment. The low level of the outer luggage compartment wall makes loading and loading easier. Power 62 l / s.
- 2103 - the interpretation of the "penny". 1972 - 2005 (Export version "Lada 1500") Interior and trunk "luxury". Power 77 l / s.
- 2105 - The model laid the foundation for the second generation of VAZ cars. The exterior and interior have been modernized. For the first time the timing belt drive. Heated rear window and blown glass doors. The checkpoint is five-speed. 1983 - 2010 75 l / s.
Pros and cons
Advantages of the car
- Relative interior comfort;
- Good heating in winter;
- Good ventilation, sound insulation,
- Trouble-free engine start in the cold;
- Economical, cheap, easy to repair;
- Spacious interior, roomy trunk.
- Smooth running, good dynamics.
Cons of the car
- Poor seat ergonomics;
- Lack of active security;
- Limited resource before overhaul;
- There is no power steering;
- Low average speed;
- Low anti-corrosion protection;
- Insufficient rigidity of the car body;
- Low camshaft resource.
45 years ago, in 1970, a car rolled off the assembly line in Togliatti, which changed the course of automotive history in the vastness of the USSR. These are VAZ-2101, Zhiguli, or simply Kopeyka. I still fondly remember my "Penny" - my first car, a workhorse.
The idea of building an unprecedented scale automobile plant was born at the very top. It was initiated by the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR A.N. Kosygin, who was supported by Brezhnev himself. The amount of money not provided with goods was growing in the country, and a mass car could become a necessary lifesaver: citizens would willingly give their savings for it. In addition, a modern car that is in demand abroad was supposed to improve the export position of the country, which bought more for foreign currency than sold.
The Soviet delegation examines the FIAT lineup, 1966
The search for partners was conducted without much publicity. Even the KGB was involved in this activity, in particular L. Kolosov, the Izvestia correspondent in Italy, and also an employee of the all-powerful committee. The choice fell on the FIAT concern - it offered the most favorable conditions. In Italy, with its traditionally strong leftist movement, there was a general strike at this time, and the contract with the Soviets greatly helped to straighten out the financial situation of the concern. The USSR took into account, of course, the fact that in 1966 the FIAT-124 became the Car of the Year in Europe.
FIAT-124
The general agreement was signed on August 8 of the same year in Moscow. The documents were signed by the head of FIAT Vittorio Valetta and the Minister of the Automotive Industry of the USSR A.M. Tarasov. They decided to build the plant on the banks of the Volga (the presence of the river solved many transport problems), in the young city of Togliatti. Previously, there was Stavropol-on-Volga, partially flooded after the construction of the hydroelectric power station, but the city was built practically from scratch under the auto giant. One of the reasons for choosing the site was precisely the presence of powerful construction organizations.
Soon, several FIAT-124 vehicles were brought to the USSR, which went to comprehensive tests. They were driven all over the country, from Crimea to Vorkuta, where, of course, they were delivered by rail. Work was also carried out at the not completely rebuilt Dmitrovsky test site. As a result, FIAT-124R (R stands for Russia) began to be born, noticeably different from the standard "Italian".
Improved Fiat 124 samples passed at the NAMI test range from November 17 to December 10, 1966, 12 thousand km (8 thousand - light cobblestone, 2 thousand - heavy and 2 thousand more - dirt roads)
The VAZ enterprise was so important for the USSR that the deputy minister of the automotive industry was appointed its general director. The state spent from 4 to 5 billion rubles on the construction of AVTOVAZ and filling it with equipment. Almost all components for VAZ cars were produced locally. For this, equipment was purchased from their own - 844 Soviet factories, at 900 enterprises in the CMEA countries (Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Czechoslovakia), as well as in Italy, Germany, England, France and the USA
For its time, the automobile plant in Togliatti became one of the most modern and advanced enterprises in Europe. The planned production volume looks rather big even today - 600 thousand cars a year. Although, even such figures did not eliminate the deficit in the USSR. For the VAZ it was necessary to stand in line for about 5 years. And the first VAZ-2101 cost - 5500 Soviet rubles
But in the name of the car - "Zhiguli" there was nothing political. This is the name of the mountains near Tolyatti. It was suggested by a designer named Cherny. In order for this name, familiar to many motorists, to appear, written in the original font on the rear of the car (by the way, the Italians also invented the font), the magazine "Za Rulem" announced a reader's competition. About 55 thousand proposals were submitted, among which the new model was even proposed to be named "Violet", "Memorial", "Pervorozhets" and "Directive". Among the proposals was the name "Lada", which later saved the Soviet export. Foreigners not only could not correctly pronounce the word "Zhiguli", but it also had obscene consonances in several languages at once. For example, in Arab countries it was consonant with the word "thief", and in Spain - "gigolo".
Already on April 19, 1970, the first VAZ-2101 rolled off the VAZ assembly line. The first car was driven by Italian designer Benito Guido Savoini, but it was not a Fiat 124 in its purest form, although there are still legends among VAZ owners that it was a "real Fiat". In fact, a real Fiat 124 would fall apart quickly enough on Soviet roads. Fiat 124 tests, which in 1966 were carried out at the Dmitrov training ground near Moscow, showed that the Italians began to pour concretely after just 5,000 km of Soviet off-road
Externally, the VAZ-2101 differed from FIAT only in more massive bumper fangs, recessed door handles and, of course, emblems. But the stuffing of the Soviet car was different in many ways.
The figure shows FIAT-124 and VAZ-2101. Find 10 differences as they say.
That is why, in the VAZ-2101, Italian engineers, at the request of the Soviets, made about eight hundred changes. And from 1966 to 1970, 9 series and 35 samples of the future VAZ-2101 passed comprehensive tests at NAMI and more than 2.5 million kilometers of tests. According to their results, the body has become much stronger, the suspension design has changed and the ground clearance has increased to 170 mm (in fact, the package is "bad roads"), instead of disc brakes, drum brakes were installed at the back, an outside rear-view mirror appeared, and the backs of the front seats began to unfold. The engine from the lower shaft became the upper shaft
VAZ-2101 has become a car of the European level. This is evidenced by the fact that this model was exported not only to socialist countries: Bulgaria, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia and the GDR. Export versions of "Kopeyka" were sold in Germany, Austria, France, Switzerland, Great Britain, Egypt and Nigeria. These export copies were the dream of many Soviet motorists. Indeed, in addition to a richer configuration, export VAZs were more reliable and of better quality. They passed 39 stages of additional intermediate verification at the Import Center. And then - more checks with local dealers abroad. It is no coincidence that in Western Europe there are still clubs of VAZ-2101 fans.
The export version of the VAZ-2101 was called Lada 1200 and, for example, for the UK they produced cars with a tuning roof, a 1.3-liter engine, decorative stripes on the sides, the body was made of thickened metal with anti-static and anti-corrosion treatment, the transmission was reinforced, the starter was super reliable, battery - high capacity
Soviet motorists were able to realize their dream of export VAZs only after the collapse of the Soviet Union in the 90s of the last century. Used VAZs were being distilled from the former socialist countries. In Europe, they were already considered "mammoths" and it was said that "mammoths go home to die"
The production of the VAZ-2101 (modifications of the VAZ-21011) was stopped in 1982. During this time, 2,700,000 copies of this model were produced. All in all, according to AvtoVAZ, 4.8 million different modifications of "kopecks" were produced. And among them there were many very interesting ones. And sometimes unique
"Kopeyka" was a massive, popular car, but some modifications of the VAZ-2101 were not advertised. Moreover, many of them were protected by state secrets.
For example, for the police they made a VAZ-2101-94 with a 1.5-liter engine
At the beginning of 1971, for advertising and sports purposes, the VAZ-2101 racing series was released, which participated in the Tour of Europe-71 and even won silver. And in the "Tour of Europe-73" VAZs won gold and silver. The availability of the car in Europe made it possible to use it in local sporting events. The Lada Challenge was even organized in England. True, the overwhelming majority of sports versions of VAZs were tuned with expensive imported parts, which were sometimes semi-legally imported into the USSR from abroad.
For factory needs, pick-up trucks with a carrying capacity of 200-300 kg were traditionally made from defective bodies. They ply between the workshops of a huge factory in Togliatti
In Cuba, limousines were made from VAZ-2101 on a semi-industrial basis, and they were used there as route taxis
VAZ-2101 for many became the first car, the memory of which they carried through the years. 2101 is also called the golden kopeck of the Soviet car industry. This car gave a powerful impetus to the entire industry for many decades. In fact, the 70s, 80s and 90s and 2000s AvtoVAZ reaped the benefits of a successful design and only in 2012 removed from production the last "classic" VAZ-2107, which had many parts labeled 2101. Era "penny "is over, but this car is still in demand in the secondary market and can be found in city traffic every day. But 45 years have passed!
Sources of
www.zr.ru/content/articles/484752-istori ja_zhigulej_ochevidnyje_i_neverojatnyje /
www.zr.ru/content/articles/356531-istori ja_zhigulej_simvol_minuvshego_veka /
www.autoconsulting.com.ua/article.php?si d = 33254
www.ria.ru/photolents/20150907/118000062 3_1179995653.html
www.drive2.ru/b/288230376151808281/
See also posts from the series
VAZ-2101 "Zhiguli" is a rear-wheel drive passenger car with a sedan-type body. The first model produced at the Volzhsky Automobile Plant.The Fiat-124 of 1966 was taken as a basis. The design was modified taking into account Soviet conditions - the ground clearance was increased, the suspension and the body were reinforced, the rear disc brakes were replaced with drum brakes as they were more resistant to dirt and durable, and a “crooked starter” was added (engine crank). Outside, an outside rear-view mirror appeared (on the left), the door handles became recessed. The design of the engine was changed - the camshaft was moved to the head, the distance between the cylinders was increased (so that their diameter could be increased). Vehicle weight has increased by 90 kg. More than 800 changes were made in total.
The first VAZ-2101 at the AvtoVAZ museum
On April 19, 1970, the first car was assembled on the main conveyor of the Volga Automobile Plant. The very first copy was brought off the assembly line by the Italian chief instructor Benito Guido Savoini. The assembly was attended by the mechanics of the Volga Automobile Plant V. Prisyazhnyuk, I. Osipov, V. Gusev, V. Orlikhin and V. Glazunov. After 19 years of operation, the first commercial vehicle took pride of place in the museum of the Volga Automobile Plant.
This car is the initial representative of all the classics of VAZs. In fact, the VAZ 2101 and the following modifications received an excellent adaptation to the roads of the USSR with a foreign car - the 1966 FIAT 124. However, the VAZ 2101 engine was more progressive, thanks to the upper location of the camshaft in the cylinder head. The ground clearance was increased by 30mm, the suspension had to be redesigned and reinforced. The modification of the body VAZ 21011 (1974), which received much more comfortable front seats and progressive control mechanisms, and also ashtrays, which were transferred from the rear armrests, and began to be located at the rear on the door panel, changed the most. Also, this modification was supplemented by a more powerful 69-horsepower engine with a working volume of 1.3 liters. These cars have a different radiator grille with frequent cross-members, located horizontally, in the lower part of the front panel there were 4 special slots for ventilation. Bumpers VAZ 2101 began to be made without fangs and rubber pads were located on them along the entire length.
On the pillars of the VAZ 2101 body, they began to have holes for special exhaust ventilation of the cabin at the rear, which were covered with original grilles, brake lights and turn signals received reflectors. A reverse signal was installed on the car. After some time, they began to produce a version of the VAZ-21013, which has a body 21011 and a 1.2-liter VAZ 2101 engine. The "police" version of the VAZ-21016 received a powerful 71-horsepower (77hp to the outdated GOST) engine VAZ-2103.
The export version of the car was called Lada 1200. Over 57 thousand cars were sent to the countries of the Socialist Commonwealth - the GDR, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, Hungary and Yugoslavia. Soon "Lada" appeared on the roads of Germany, France, Great Britain, Austria, Switzerland, Egypt and Nigeria.
The production of the VAZ 21011 car was stopped in 1981, and the VAZ 2101 was stopped in 1982. Then they began to produce only a kind of "kopeck" VAZ-21013.
VAZ-2101 or simply "Zhiguli" is one of the most famous Soviet-made cars, the descendants of which were produced right up to 2012. During its existence, it has undergone quite serious changes and received several awards and prizes, so let's talk about what the life of this car was like.
Union with Fiat
The very first VAZ 2101 was produced at the Volga Automobile Plant. This happened thanks to the signing in 1966 of an agreement between the Italian firm Fiat and the Soviet "Vneshnetorg" on cooperation in the development of passenger cars. It was within the framework of this agreement that the project for the construction of a plant for cars on the territory of the USSR was adopted.
According to preliminary agreements, several cars were to be produced at this plant at once. It had to be 2 cars with a sedan body in the standard configuration, and one station wagon in a luxury configuration. If we talk about where the concept of cars of the class norm came from, then the Fiat 124 was identified as a prototype, which literally next year received the title of "Car of the Year" 
Why Fiat 124 did not fit
When Soviet scientists and specialists took up the study and testing of the car, which was taken as the basis for the development of their own car, several shortcomings were identified at once, which had to be eliminated when developing a car, which in the future will be called nothing but the VAZ-2101. First of all, experts drew attention to the fact that the Fiat 124 is not suitable for our roads due to the extremely small ground clearance and the complete absence of towing eyes, without which the car would be difficult to use off-road.
In addition, the car body itself was not sufficiently reliable and strong and could hardly withstand the intensity of operation that was expected for a Soviet car.
How the VAZ-2101 became better than the Fiat 124
Italian engineers took into account all the wishes of Soviet researchers and future Zhiguli got drum brakes on the rear axle, an improved front and a fundamentally new suspension on the rear axle and an improved gearbox. This is not a complete list of modifications that were made to the Fiat124R, a Russian-language model of the Italian Fiat.
In total, there were more than 800 changes, and some of these comments were subsequently used personally by Fiat when developing new cars of its series. These requirements of Soviet engineers and researchers helped Fiat to collect unique information about the reliability and passability of cars of its brand in off-road conditions.
The first six VAZ-2101
The very first six cars rolled off the assembly line on April 19, 1970, so this very day can be called the birthday of the Zhiguli. It is worth noting that the first cars were only in two color options and 2 blue and 4 red cars were produced.
These first 6 prototypes showed excellent results in tests and modifications were minimal, so that already in August 1970 the plant started operating at full capacity. And the plant's capacity was really impressive. By the end of the year, 21530 cars were produced at the newly built plant in Togliatti
The plant gradually increased its turnover and by 1973 managed to produce 379,007 “Zhiguli.
Why exactly "Zhiguli"
In fact, the name of the VAZ-2101 could have been completely different. According to one version, the name was born at the plant, and was approved back in 1976, and according to the other, it was invented on a competitive basis. In 1970, the magazine Za Rulem wrote about the intermediate result of the competition. A list of 1,812 names was also published there, which were selected by the commission for consideration. In total, about 55,000 titles were sent, some of which were funny, some were funny, and some were simply ridiculous.
What could the VAZ-2101 be called:
- Violet
- Falcon
- Pervorozhets
- Memorial
- Youth
- Dream
- Directive
- Falcon
One way or another, but the final name was precisely "Zhiguli", and a little later the people called this car nothing but "Kopeyka" per unit at the end of the model number.
Modern motorists adapt the VAZ-2101 even for drifts:
Classifications and numbering
It is worth mentioning that, in addition to significant improvements compared to the Italian prototype, domestic Zhiguli became the first car produced in the USSR, which received such a document as normal OH 025370-66. This document regulated the classification and designation system of rolling stock.
Now, each new car of a series or trailer was assigned a four-digit number, the first two digits of which indicated the class of the car or trailer, and the last two - its model. Sometimes the fifth digit was also used, which said that this car was a modification of a certain model and one could immediately understand what changes were made to this particular car.
Additional digits in the number were also sometimes used. The sixth digit could show what climate the car is intended for and whether it was intended for import. In rare cases, additional numbers were added with a hyphen, which showed that this car was an intermediate modification of the car.
Comparison of VAZ-2101 (1970) and Lada Granta (2012)
It is thanks to this that, looking at the VAZ-21011 inscription, one can immediately understand that this car was made at the Volga Automobile Plant (VAZ), belongs to a small class of car with an engine from 1200 to 1800 cubic centimeters (21) and is the first model of this car in this class (01) with the first version of the modification, which differs from the original by installing the engine at 1300 cubic centimeters (1).
Modifications of the VAZ-2101
Throughout the history of the existence of this car, many different modifications have been released. Among them were cars designed exclusively for the needs of the plant where Lada was produced, and even such interesting solutions as Lada limousines, which were used for a long time abroad.
VAZ-2101
This is the very first version of "Kopeyka", which was very popular both among motorists and among the developers themselves. It is not surprising that this car became the basis for future modifications, because it was extremely successful. It is worth noting that the VAZ-2101 was equipped with a 1.2-liter engine.
The first modification we mentioned above. The main difference from the traditional "Kopeyka" in this model is the engine. It was much more powerful than the previous version of the car, and its volume was increased to 1.3 liters.
The car has also undergone quite strong changes in terms of design. Basically, these changes concerned improved ventilation of the cooling radiator - four additional slots appeared in front and the shape of the radiator grill was changed. Also, reversing lights were installed on this modification from 1974 to 1983 inclusive.
The main difference between this modification and the VAZ-21011 is a less powerful engine, identical to that installed on the original "Kopeyka" (1.2 liters); otherwise, the changes made in 21011 were preserved in version 21013.
Lada was also produced for export, and these cars were known under the name Lada 1200 in almost all countries of the Socialist Commonwealth. First of all, they appeared in Czechoslovakia, the German Democratic Republic, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia and Hungary, and the total number of such cars totaled more than 57 thousand cars.
Over time, the Lada 1200 earned respect among foreign motorists, and very soon these cars could be seen on the roads of Germany, Austria, France and even Nigeria.
VAZ-21012 and VAZ-21014
The glory of the Zhiguli was not limited to the Soviet Union. Especially for countries with left-hand traffic, two modifications of the Zhiguli were released at once. First of all, they differed in the right-hand steering and the reinforced spring suspension of the right front wheel. The fact is that when the controls were moved to the other side, the mass of the car began to be distributed unevenly and it was necessary to organize such a compensation system. In total, these cars were produced from 1974 to 1982.
Nothing in the Soviet Union was wasted, and even defective Zhiguli. Instead of being written off due to body defects, they were converted into pickups and later used for the needs of the factory. The entire rear part of the roof just behind the front seats was simply cut off and a new cab wall was installed. The rear doors were welded to increase the rigidity of the structure, and as a result, the carrying capacity of such pickups could be 300 kg.
Of course, such cars did not go into series production, but some amateurs even independently carried out such improvements over their "Kopeks".
"Limousine" VAZ 2101
No matter how comical it sounds, but cars of this modification not only existed, but also enjoyed immense popularity in Cuba. Here they were used as route taxis and coped with this task quite easily.
There are many interesting stories about this car, which has managed to fall in love with domestic motorists, but the most unusual of these facts should be described separately, because Kopeyka, although already out of production, is still often found on our roads.
Starter and starting handle
The Soviet auto industry cannot be accused of lack of foresight. A starting handle could be found in the repair tool bag that came with the vehicle. Of course, this could horrify foreigners, but the instructions said that it was intended solely for starting the car in very cold winters or after a long parking. According to the authors of the instructions, it was necessary to turn the handle several times with the neutral gear and the ignition off, after which it was possible to carry out a normal start using the starter
Suspended accelerator pedal and washer
An accessory such as a suspended accelerator pedal appeared only in the VAZ-21011. Before that, in the traditional kopeck, the gas pedal was with a floor installation. The floor washer button also appeared along with the first modification of the car, because before that it was located on the dashboard next to the washer mode switch and the light switch.
Foreign spare parts in the VAZ-2101
Naturally, not all the parts used for the production of the first Zhiguli were domestic. Under the hoods of some Kopeks, one could find Weber carburetors, some cars were equipped with non-collapsible foreign-made shock absorbers, which were much more reliable and durable than domestic ones. The same situation happened with spark plugs.
Curiosities with the logo
In total, there were three types of emblems for the Zhiguli. The most famous of them was a silvery boat on a ruby background, which has flaunted on all VAZ-2101s since 1971. But the fact is that on 1970 cars the issued badge was also supplemented with the inscription "Togliatti". There were very few such emblems, since a year later it was ordered to remove the inscription unmasking the location of the car plant, which at that time was considered an extremely important strategic object. A car with such a logo is a real rarity.
However, an even rarer logo is a mistakenly made logo with the Cyrillic letter "I" replaced by the Latin "R". This happened due to the fact that the first batch of emblems was ordered at the Fiat plant in Turin, and there the Italians, through an oversight, simply confused the letters. All the emblems, and there were about 30 of them, were simply dismantled by VAZ employees for souvenirs and now this emblem is very much appreciated, but it is almost impossible to get it. 
Overall rating of the VAZ-2101
According to the general assessments of motorists and experts, the VAZ-2101 became a real breakthrough and triumph in the Soviet automotive industry. Even young motorists, who received a license quite recently, could use this car practically without restrictions. The limitations concerned only the speeds during the running-in of the car. Thanks to Kopeyka, Soviet motorists realized that even in a small car one can feel comfortable, stay warm in winter and talk in the cabin without raising their voices. Of course, in many respects it was the merit of our Italian partners, because our Zhiguli took a lot from Fiat 124.
Starting the engine in winter no longer turned into a ritual with blowtorches and buckets of hot water, as it used to be. With the advent of the VAZ-2101, motorists even managed without a starter handle, which for the most part became possible thanks to the Weber 32 DCR two-chamber carburetor, which were more advanced than their Soviet counterparts of that era.
These carburetors began later to be produced in the Soviet Union under the mark DAAZ-2101, and over time they even migrated under the hoods of the Volga and other domestic cars, where they were carefully installed by the hands of motorists.
In general, the appearance of the VAZ-2101 was a real breakthrough in the car market in the Soviet Union, and even now not everyone has abandoned this car and they can still be found on the streets of cities.
A rear-wheel drive sedan of a small class and, concurrently, the "first-born" of the Volga Automobile Plant - VAZ-2101 - "was born" on April 19, 1970 - it was then that the first six copies of the newly-made model came off the assembly line of the Togliatti enterprise ...
But its history began much earlier - back in 1966, the USSR Ministry of Automotive Industry signed a general agreement with Fiat, borrowing a four-door Fiat 124 from them for its “penny”. True, having reincarnated in the VAZ-2101, the Italian "donor" underwent significant changes: the exterior and interior were modified, new engines were separated, the ground clearance was increased, the suspension and body were strengthened, and a lot of other "changes" were made.
In 1974, the VAZ-21011 model debuted, which (in comparison with the base "brother") received a revised appearance, a more comfortable interior and an engine of increased (up to 1.3 liters) volume.
The "life" cycle of the three-volume lasted until 1988, and during this period it sold over 2.7 million units.
Outside, the VAZ-2101 has a very nice, laconic and balanced, but outdated (by modern standards) look, which lacks any memorable design moves.
A friendly front end with round headlights-eyes, between which a radiator grille is "registered", and a chrome bumper "beam", a classic three-volume silhouette with a high roof line, flat sides and a long "branch" of the trunk, an unpretentious stern with narrow lanterns and a neat bumper - exterior the car is simple and unremarkable.
In terms of its dimensions, the "kopeck" belongs to the "B-class" (according to the European classification): it is extended by 4043 mm in length, reaches 1611 mm in width, and does not exceed 1440 mm in height. The wheelbase of the four-door is 2424 mm, and its ground clearance is 170 mm.
When equipped, the car weighs at least 955 kg, and its gross weight is 1355 kg.
The interior of the VAZ-2101 is designed in full accordance with the appearance - it looks modest on all fronts, but at the same time it is distinguished by well-thought-out ergonomics. A large two-spoke steering wheel with a thin rim, an extremely simple instrument cluster that provides only the necessary minimum of information, an extremely discreet front panel with round ventilation deflectors, two "sliders" of the heating system, an ashtray and a radio receiver - by modern standards, the sedan's decoration is completely outdated.
Formally, the "kopeck" salon has a five-seat layout, but only two people can sit on the second row, and they will not feel an excess of free space. Both front and rear, the car is equipped with amorphous seats without head restraints, which have a flat profile (even without a hint of lateral support) and soft padding.
The trunk of the VAZ-2101 is ascetic: it has an intricate shape, and bare metal is almost everywhere. The cargo compartment of the four-door is 325 liters, but this is taking into account the full-size spare wheel, which is fixed inside on the left side.
The Soviet sedan is offered with two four-cylinder gasoline "aspirated" with a vertical layout, an overhead camshaft, carburetor fuel injection and an 8-valve timing structure:
- VAZ- 2101 (Lada-1200) is equipped with a 1.2-liter engine that generates 64 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 89 Nm of rotational potential at 3400 rpm.
- VAZ- 21011 (Lada-1300) is powered by a 1.3-liter engine developing 69 hp. at 5600 rpm and 96 Nm of torque at 3400 rpm.
By default, the three-box is equipped with a 4-speed "manual" gearbox and drive wheels of the rear axle.
From a standstill to 100 km / h the car accelerates after 18-22 seconds, and its maximum capabilities "rest" at 140-145 km / h.
In the combined driving mode, the four-door consumes from 8.2 to 9.2 liters of fuel for each "hundred", depending on the modification.
At the heart of the VAZ-2101 is a rear-wheel drive "bogie" borrowed from the Fiat 124 model, which implies a longitudinal arrangement of the power plant in the front end and the presence of a supporting steel body.
At the front, the sedan is equipped with an independent suspension on double wishbones with telescopic shock absorbers, coil springs and an anti-roll bar, and at the rear - a dependent structure with a rigid beam attached to the frame of one transverse and four longitudinal rods. The car is equipped with a steering mechanism with a two-ridge roller and a globoid "worm", as well as a brake system with disc front and drum rear devices.
In the secondary market of Russia in 2018, the VAZ-2101 can be purchased at a price of ~ 15 thousand rubles, but the cost of some copies (close to the original state) can go up to a million rubles.
Among the advantages of a sedan, the owners usually distinguish: a simple and reliable design, high maintainability, affordable maintenance, moderately high-torque engines, high ground clearance, a good level of assembly, unpretentiousness to fuel quality and much more.
The car also lacks its drawbacks: an outdated technical "filling", low dynamic and speed characteristics, a low level of safety and other points.
