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 the 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 inscription VAZ-21011, 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 abroad for a long time.
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.
In 1966, an agreement was signed between the Soviet Union and the Italian company Fiat on the joint construction of an automobile plant and the production of a model there. A year later, the construction of a new enterprise began in Togliatti, and in 1970 the first cars came off the assembly line of the plant.
The sedan, called the VAZ-2101 "Zhiguli", had a classic layout typical of those years, and during the preparation for serial production many changes were made to its design. For example, unlike the Fiat, the Soviet car was equipped with an engine not with a lower, but with an upper camshaft. The 1.2-liter engine itself developed 64 liters. With. In addition, the Zhiguli received a reinforced clutch, an upgraded four-speed gearbox, a modified rear dependent suspension, and rear drum brakes instead of disc brakes.
In 1974, the production of the VAZ-21011 modification began with a 1.3-liter engine with a capacity of 69 liters. With. Also, this version was distinguished by the shape of the bumpers, modified rear lights and the presence of a reversing light, steering wheel and seats of a different shape. Since 1977, version 21013 has also been made in Togliatti with the listed external changes, but with the same 1.2-liter engine. In small quantities, mainly for the police, the VAZ-21016 with a 1.5-liter power unit was produced.
In the late seventies - early eighties "kopeck" cost 6600 rubles. "Zhiguli" were sold not only in the USSR, but were also exported under the names Lada 1200 and Lada 1300. For the markets of Great Britain and some other countries, versions with right-hand drive were also made.
On the basis of the "penny" a station wagon and a sedan were created, and subsequently a series of other models of the "classic" family. The production of the VAZ-2101 modification continued until 1982, version 21011 was made until 1983, and 21013 until 1988. A total of 2,710,930 Zhiguli of the first model were produced.
This sedan was the dream of every Soviet motorist. He combined not only an attractive design, but also good driving properties. In addition, the "penny" became the first car of the Volga Automobile Plant, which laid the foundation for future models of the enterprise.
VAZ 2101 began production in 1970 and left the assembly line only in 1986. The Fiat 124 became the founder of the Soviet sedan. The platform and some design solutions of the body and interior were borrowed from the "Italian".
At the same time, the suspension has been seriously redesigned, as well as the braking system - for harsh climatic conditions, in order to increase the reliability of these units and components.
The front suspension is multi-link, while the rear axle has a semi-dependent beam on torsion elements. Disc brakes - front only. Rear wheels stop with drums.
Lada 2101 was available to the buyer in two versions, which have different technical characteristics:
- 2101. Equipped with a 1.2 liter 64 horsepower engine, which works in conjunction with a four-speed manual transmission.
- 21011. This "Kopeyka" has an improved body design, as well as additional internal amenities. Under the hood is a 1.3-liter engine that develops 69 forces. It is equipped with 4MKP.
- 21013. The version of the later years of release. Powered by a 1.2 liter unit (64 "horses")
New "Kopeyka" VAZ 2101
It is noteworthy that they do not forget about the VAZ 2101 today. For example, at the facilities of the Togliatti auto giant in the period from April 1 to April 19, 2016, a limited batch of "kopecks" was produced, the circulation of which amounted to a symbolic 124 units of the model.
The new classic could only be bought by those who owned the exact same car at that time.
In addition, AvtoVAZ planned to revive the 2101 model in a new image and even distributed official renders of the prototype of the future classics on the Internet.
The debut of the car was slated for 2017. However, soon the management of the brand abandoned such an idea and the project was closed, and did not manage to get development.
Popular opinion
Despite the fact that "Kopeyka" has not been produced for a long time, it is still held in high esteem and respect among the people.
Reviews indicate that many people note a comfortable interior with high build quality, as well as excellent driving properties of this model. The engines have a good resource, are not picky about fuel, and the suspension firmly endures broken roads.
Tuning is also widespread. So, to increase the power potential of the engine and its better thrust, the craftsmen bore the cylinders, change the carburetor to a more efficient one, and also install camshafts with a different cam profile.
More detailed information on the revision of the domestic sedan is set out in the photos, videos, which are posted on thematic Internet resources.
Market price
Test Drive
Nothing extra
The design of "Kopeyka" is laconic, at the same time the body itself has some swiftness. The modest external dimensions are skillfully disguised by the competent layout of the headlights, the long hood and trunk, as well as overhead bumpers. The abundance of chrome elements (grille, bumpers, side mirrors) gives the domestic sedan respectability.
With a hint of more
The salon is well assembled - the panels are fitted neatly and without gaps, and nothing creaks when driving. The quality of finishing materials is also commendable. Namely, the plastic is pliable to the touch, the pseudo-leather that covers the seats, the door cards are not prone to rubbing and are easy to clean.
The dashboard is extremely informative - the control lamps are in the visibility zone and are large enough. The speedometer, fuel / coolant level indicators are also perfectly readable due to large digitization, and they also look nice.
In the center of the dashboard, there is an air conditioner unit, which is regulated by sliders. Next to the "stove" is a spacious ashtray.
Front seats with a flat profile and lack of lateral support do not provide proper body fixation. However, their cushion area is optimal for large people, and the lack of a profile is compensated for on a long journey by reasonable softness.
The rear sofa is comfortable in width even for three people, but there is very little space for the knees - only a passenger who is no more than 165 centimeters tall will be comfortable. The volume of the trunk is 325 liters, but it is not very convenient to use it due to the large hinges of the body lid, convex wheel arches.
Reasonable compromise
The capabilities of the base 1.2-liter engine for a sedan weighing 955 kilograms are quite enough. Of course, the dynamics are far from ideal by modern standards, but the engine itself is easy to control.
Good traction at low revs allows to get under way confidently, and at medium revs it is already possible to actively maneuver in the general flow due to the sharpening of the accelerator pedal response. The transmission ratios are well matched, but the selectivity is mediocre.
The steering is quite informative and obedient when driving up to 80 kilometers per hour. If you move at a higher speed, then you need to be prepared for unstable directional stability - it manifests itself in the yaw of the car along the road. At the same time, the steering wheel begins to noticeably play, and also loses most of its information content.
Long-travel suspension allows for significant roll and swing. But, she is able to playfully work out even large potholes. Ride smoothness remains high in most cases, however, the sound of the chassis may seem intrusive.
Photo Lada 2101:
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.
In the Soviet automobile industry, Zhiguli is considered the most famous and popular flagship. Transport has and was produced until 2012. In the period of its entire existence, it has been improved and modernized more than once. The history of the VAZ-2101 includes many events: the design has changed, the technical side has been corrected and the concept of the car itself has changed.
Cooperation with Fiat
The most famous and first of its kind model is the VAZ-2101, which was produced at the Volga Automobile Plant. At one time, this flagship became possible thanks to an agreement with Italy - Fiat. Our country was represented by Vneshtorg, which has at its disposal the capacity for the production of light vehicles. This contract was signed in 1966 and was marked by the construction of a plant for the production of domestic flagships.
According to the original plan, it was required to organize the production of several models of the VAZ-2101 transport. One of them was supposed to have a sedan body and a normal type of technical equipment. The second "kopeck" had the characteristic features of the station wagon, which were complemented by the luxury class equipment. The flagship Fiat 124 became the first prototype of such a lineup, which became the best brand for the whole year. It will become the basis for the VAZ-2101 car.
Why Fiat 124 didn't fit
During the period of global testing of the flagship, which was necessary to ensure the development of their own brand of transport, manufacturers discovered a number of serious shortcomings. They demanded an urgent decision so that the car could be called the VAZ-2101. The main problem was that the flagship was not suitable for domestic roads, as it had too low ground clearance and did not provide for a towing eye.
This made the modification unsuitable for off-road, which is extremely common in our territories. This problem was supplemented by a rather weak case, which wore out quickly and was not intended for long-term operation. In addition, our people love outdoor activities, so car production should focus on the endurance of the flagship.
How the VAZ-2101 overtook the Fiat 124
To improve the flagship VAZ-2101, the active rear brake system was completed, and the front axle suspension was improved, which was indirectly different from its predecessors. Has undergone changes, which has received more convenient control. There was an active release of new modifications, which more and more departed from the original Fiat.
In total, there were more than 800 upgrades, which made the "penny" one of the best. She was able to fully meet the requirements of the road surface in Russia and had high convenience for active users. The production of these machines has received recognition from international experts.
Factory release VAZ-2101
In 1970, the first six cars rolled off the assembly line, and April 19 is considered the birthday of the Zhiguli brand. The variety of colors was then represented only by red and blue. In a practical test, such machines showed excellent results, so they did not even give in to modifications. Already in 1970, the plant for their production started working at full capacity. So, during the year of operation, 21530 units of transport were produced.
Features of the classification
Among the features of the "Zhiguli" is the fact that the car received a special document ОН 025370-66. This standard regulated the principle of classification and designation of technical composition.
Thus, all produced models acquired a four-digit number. The first two digits gave information about the modification class, and the next two gave information about its model. In practice, the fifth digit was also used, which showed that this machine was a modification. There could be a sixth one - the destination for export, determined the climatic conditions.
Modification period
For the entire period of production of the car, a large number of vehicles were produced. Among the modifications were flagships designed exclusively for factories, as well as special vehicles such as limousines. For a long time they were sold abroad.
Among the transport, the first car, the "kopeck", was especially popular. This was a good solution in terms of technical equipment, which is also confirmed by user reviews. Therefore, this car became the basis for subsequent modifications. The release of VAZ-2101 modifications made it possible to satisfy the requests of a larger number of buyers.
The first model that has undergone changes is the VAZ-21011. Its main difference was the engine. The transport received, as well as the volume, which was 1.3 liters. The design of the car has also undergone modifications. Now the cooling of the radiator also took place through an improved ventilation system. For this, several slots were added and the shape of the lattice itself was changed. Later it was decided to add new taillights.
Replenishment of the model range
Soon, the 21013 model was released, which received a less powerful engine, which was previously used in the original "penny". He had a volume of 1.2 liters. All other changes were sourced from newer models. Buyers reacted in two ways to these changes.
Lada 1200
This model "Zhiguli" was actively produced for export needs. Then it was produced under the name Lada 1200 and was distributed throughout the USSR. The total number of such cars produced was 57,000. A little later, the car was positively received by more distant countries, therefore it was actively exported for sale.
Since the "Zhiguli" were known in the far abroad, a separate modification of the VAZ-21014 and 21012 was released. They were characterized by the performance of the steering wheel on the right side, which corresponded to the norms in some states. A stronger spring suspension was located on the right wheel of the vehicle. This was due to the non-standard weight distribution due to the offset of the modification controls. The production of such machines continued until 1982.
Pickup truck production
Since during the times of the Union, the use of even waste was practiced so that nothing was wasted, defective flagships were actively used in recycling. The factories converted them into small pick-up trucks that were used on the territory of production. In practice, the entire rear part from the roof of the vehicle was completely cut off, so it ended after the front seats. A rear wall was installed, which created a compact cabin.
It was decided to weld the rear doors of the car in order to increase the carrying capacity of the pickup. Thus, the new model could handle a weight of 300 kg. This variation was not allowed into production, but some motorists specially altered their cars in this way.
Oddly enough, the classic "penny" has also been modified into an elongated model. It was actively used on the territory of Cuba, where it was used in the field of transportation for taxis. Based on the unfavorable condition of those roads, the Zhiguli could cope with the assigned tasks without any problems.
Creation of the emblem
Since it was required to highlight the car and make it recognizable, an original logo was created. During the existence of the brand, it has been redone three times. Among them stood out a silver rook floating on a ruby background. She was positively received by buyers and was in transport until 1971.
True, it was soon decided to change the logo, because it contained the name of the city of Togliatti, which was not in demand due to the growth of the brand. Also, the inscription on the car was later removed to hide the location of the strategic object from prying eyes.
Among the variants of the VAZ-2101, the history of the creation of the "inverted" logo also deserves special attention. The manufacturers changed the position of the letter "I", replacing it with R. The reason for this was an order in Italy, where the company that produced the logo made a mistake in spelling the letter for -2101. Such emblems did not go into wide production; they were disassembled by employees as souvenirs. There were 30 of them in total, and it is extremely difficult to get them today.
Of particular note is the tool bag that came with the original machine. It even had a trigger handle. Overseas, this would have caused shock, but the instruction indicated that the tool was intended solely for starting a vehicle in winter.
The VAZ-21011 model was the only one with a suspended pedal. Prior to that, all cars had only floor-standing options. They were complemented by the installation of a washer button, which was also located on the floor. All subsequent time it was located on the dashboard.
A prerequisite for the VAZ-2101 was also the use of domestic parts for the production of Zhiguli models. True, in some "kopecks" spare parts from Weber like shock absorbers were found more than once. They were slightly more powerful than our counterparts, and spark plugs worked more efficiently.
Overall assessment of the car
Experts have a positive opinion about the quality of the VAZ-2101 vehicle. In the Soviet automobile industry, the production of Zhiguli was a real breakthrough for factories, which raised all technologies to a new level. This flagship proved to be excellent in driving for both experienced drivers and beginners who have just acquired a transport license.
For the first time, domestic drivers came across a car that could work quite quietly, had fuel, and also warmed the interior well in the cold season. Of course, these advantages would not have been possible without borrowing technical innovations from Italian colleagues. The release of such machines made it possible to achieve a lot for the "penny".
The drivers were very attracted by the opportunity in which in the winter the VAZ-2101 car could start without problems. Previously, it took a lot of time for this, using a blowtorch, as well as hot water in a bucket, but the "penny" could start active work even without using a starter. This was possible with the Weber 32 DCR, a Fiat carburetor with two chambers. A little later, they were actively sold in the USSR under the name of their modification DAAZ-2101.
The appearance of the "penny" was a success for the entire Union. At that time, it was necessary to demonstrate the capabilities of domestic production and also prove its importance. It was the release of this line of cars that made the brand famous all over the world. And to this day, these cars are actively present on our roads.
Today, car companies rely heavily on modern technology. They use all the new solutions to make the driver's job easier. But many have forgotten about the build quality for which Zhiguli is known. For this reason, many people still use old and proven "pennies".
