How Fiat turned into a Zhiguli. The history of the Zhiguli: the obvious and the incredible So which car is still better

18.07.2019

VAZ-2101 or simply "Zhiguli" is one of famous cars Soviet-made, whose descendants 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 path of this car was like.

Alliance with Fiat

The very first VAZ 2101 was produced at the Volga Automobile Plant. This was due to the signing in 1966 of an agreement between by an Italian company Fiat and the Soviet "Vneshnetorg" on cooperation in the field of development 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 was supposed to be 2 cars with a sedan body in the standard configuration, and one station wagon in the luxury configuration. If we talk about where the concept of norm class cars came from, then the Fiat 124 was defined as a prototype, which literally next year received the title of "Car of the Year"

What did not fit Fiat 124

When Soviet scientists and specialists took up the study and testing of the car, taken as the basis for the development own car, several shortcomings were identified at once, which needed to be eliminated in the development of a car that would be called in the future only the VAZ-2101. First of all, experts noticed that the Fiat 124 is not suitable for our roads due to the extremely low 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 VAZ-2101 became better than Fiat 124

Italian engineers took into account all the wishes of Soviet researchers and the future Zhiguli acquired drum brake mechanisms on rear axle, improved front and fundamentally new suspension on the rear axle and an improved gearbox. This is far from full list improvements that were made to the Fiat124R - a Russified model of the Italian Fiat.
In total, there were more than 800 changes, and some of these comments were subsequently used personally by Fiat in the development of new cars in their series. These requirements of Soviet engineers and researchers helped Fiat collect unique information about the reliability and patency of cars of your brand in off-road conditions.

The first six VAZ-2101

The very first six cars left the assembly line on April 19, 1970, so this particular day can be called the birthday of the Zhiguli. It is worth noting that the first cars were only in two colors and 2 blue and 4 red cars were produced.

These first 6 prototypes showed excellent results in tests and improvements turned out to be minimal, so that already in August 1970 the plant started working in full power. And the capacity of the plant 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 it managed to produce 379,007 Zhiguli in a year.

Why "Zhiguli"

In fact, the name of the VAZ-2101 could be completely different. According to one version, the name was born at the plant, and was approved back in 1976, and according to another, it was invented on a competitive basis. About the intermediate result of the competition in 1970, the magazine "Behind the wheel" wrote. There was also published a list of 1812 titles that were selected by the commission for consideration. In total, about 55,000 titles were sent, some of which were funny, some funny, and some just ridiculous.
What could the VAZ-2101 be called:

Violet
Falcon
Firstborn
Memorial
Youth
Dream
Directive
Falcon

One way or another, it was the Zhiguli that became the final name, and a little later the people called this car none other than the “Penny” for the 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, the 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 the 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 indicated that this car was a modification of a certain model and it was possible to immediately understand what changes were made to this particular car.

Also, sometimes additional numbers in the number were used. The sixth digit could show what climate the car was intended for and whether it was intended for import. In rare cases, additional numbers were added through 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, you can immediately understand that this car was manufactured at the Volga Automobile Plant (VAZ), belongs to a small class of cars 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 by 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 the Zhiguli were produced, and even such interesting solutions as Zhiguli limousines, which for a long time used abroad.

VAZ-2101

This is the very first version of the Kopeika, which was very popular among both motorists and 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, which 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 a lot of changes in terms of design. Basically, these changes concerned improving the ventilation of the cooling radiator - four additional slots appeared in front and the shape of the radiator grille was changed. Also, lights were installed on this modification. reversing from 1974 to 1983 inclusive.

The main difference between this modification and the VAZ-21011 is less powerful engine, identical to what was installed on the original "Kopeyka" (1.2 liters), otherwise, the changes made in 21011 were preserved in version 21013.

Zhiguli were 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 GDR, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia and Hungary, and the total number of such cars totaled more than 57 thousand cars.
Over time, 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 drive and reinforced spring suspension right front wheel. The fact is that when the controls were transferred to the other side, the mass of the car began to be distributed unevenly and such a compensation system had to be organized. 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 pickup trucks and later used for the needs of the factory. Just cut off the whole rear end roofs immediately behind the front seats and a new cabin wall was installed. 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 the series, but some amateurs even independently carried out such improvements on their Kopeykas.

"Limousine" VAZ 2101

No matter how comical it sounds, but cars of this modification not only existed, but were also very popular in Cuba. Here they were used as fixed-route taxis and coped with this task quite easily.

There are many interesting stories about this car, which managed to fall in love with domestic motorists, but the most unusual of these facts should be described separately, because Kopek, although it has already been discontinued, is still often found on our roads.

Starter and crank

The Soviet auto industry cannot be blamed for hindsight. In the bag of repair tools that came with the car, you could find a starting handle. Of course, this could terrify foreigners, but it was written in the instructions that it was intended solely for starting a car in very cold winters or after long-term parking. According to the compilers of the instructions, it was necessary to turn the handle several times when 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

Such an accessory as a suspended accelerator pedal appeared only in the VAZ-21011. Prior to this, in the traditional penny, 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 VAZ-2101

Naturally, not all parts used to produce the first Zhiguli were domestic. Under the hoods of some Kopecks, one could find Weber carburetors, some cars were equipped with foreign-made non-separable 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 Zhiguli. The most famous of them was a silver rook on a ruby background, which flaunted on all VAZ-2101s since 1971. But the fact is that on the cars of 1970, the badge produced was also supplemented with the inscription “Togliatti”. Very few such emblems were issued, since a year later it was ordered to remove the inscription unmasking the location of the automobile plant, which at that time was considered an extremely important strategic object. A car with this logo is a real rarity.

However, an even rarer logo is an erroneously made logo with the Cyrillic letter “Ya” replaced with 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 mixed up the letters. All the emblems, and there were about 30 of them, were simply taken apart by VAZ employees for souvenirs, and now this emblem is very much appreciated, but it is almost impossible to get it.

General assessment of the VAZ-2101

According to the general assessments of motorists and experts, the VAZ-2101 became a real breakthrough and a triumph in the Soviet automotive industry. Even young motorists who received the rights quite recently could use this car with almost no restrictions. The restrictions concerned only the speeds during the break-in of the car. Thanks to Kopeyka, Soviet motorists realized that even in a small car you can feel comfortable, not get cold in winter and talk in the cabin without raising your voice. Of course, in many respects it was the merit of the Italian partners, because our Zhiguli took a lot from the Fiat 124.

Starting the engine in winter period no longer turned into a ritual with blowtorches and buckets of hot water as it was before. 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 later began to be produced in the Soviet Union under the DAAZ-2101 marking, 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 city streets.

Italy is famous for its automakers, producing some of the best Vehicle in the world. Produced from 1966 to 1974 Fiat years 124 is considered a cult car, in the territory former USSR and the CIS countries, he was the prototype of the "penny" or VAZ-2101.

Story

The company began developing the Fiat 124 in the early 1960s. The first prototype of the model was demonstrated to the whole world in 1964. Presentation of the first generation Fiat sedan 124 was carried out in 1966 as part of the Paris Motor Show after some improvements over the course of two years. A year later, the sedan received the title of "Car of the Year" - the model turned out so successful.

Exterior

Fiat 124 is made in a classic body design: a massive radiator grille, round head optics, large direction indicators, a protruding bumper, an almost square-shaped hood and smooth fender lines.

The car profile design is monolithic, discreet and calm. All elements are adjusted and proportional, do not stand out against the general background. The roof of the Fiat 124 is almost flat.

The back of the body is modest, rectangular shape. The trunk lid is neat, the bumper is in many ways similar in shape to the front bumper. The body structure has a large number of chrome-plated elements - radiator grille, door handles, bumpers, turn signal edging, headlights, door sills, moldings, windshield wipers and other details.

Fiat 124 engines

The first power unit of the model was distinguished by a longitudinal arrangement under the hood and a four-cylinder in-line design. The engine displacement is 1.2 liters, there was an eight-valve gas distribution mechanism OHV with liquid cooled and carburetor.

Power Fiat specifications 124 was 60 Horse power, which for those years is a very good indicator. In 1973, the model was upgraded, as a result of which the engine was redesigned and received a power of 65 horsepower, which was achieved by increasing the piston stroke and cylinder diameter.

In the 1970s, a limited series of engines was produced with a displacement of 1.4 to 1.6 liters and a power of 70 to 95 horsepower.

Transmission

The gearbox was installed classic for that time - a four-speed manual, which is perfect for the proposed engine.

Interior

Salon Fiat 124 was quite functional and spacious. The torpedo did not have large dimensions and was finished in wood. The dashboard with a large speedometer was in front of the driver. On the sides were temperature and fuel level sensors.

The steering wheel is two-spoke, with a very thin section. On the left side was the ignition switch, the gearshift lever was quite long and fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. The interior of the Fiat was also notable for its trim with many chrome details.

The car seats did not have proper lateral support and head restraints: the pillows were often too slippery and flat. Level Fiat review 124 Speciale is not bad, despite the fact that Windshield was small, like side mirrors- the front pillars do not interfere with the driver, and the rear view is not blocked by the headrests of the seats.

Appearance in Russia

When choosing a mass civilian model, the leadership of the Soviet Union settled on the Fiat 124, despite the fact that Renault cars and the domestic hatchback Izh-13 were offered as alternatives, which, by the way, was significantly superior in its characteristics to the Italian competitor.

This choice was made for several reasons:

Simple and fairly modern car design.
Support for the Italian Communist Party.
Spacious salon.
Popularity in European countries.
Cheap production.
Classic layout.

Car recycling

After the tests carried out in US, the Fiat 124, intended for the USSR, underwent significant changes: the total number of adjustments made by the designers to the layout of the car exceeded eight hundred.

The rear end was almost completely redesigned despite the fact that the spring-lever layout was preserved. Disc rear brakes have been replaced by drum brakes.

The engine with a lower camshaft has been replaced by an analogue with an upper camshaft. The clearance increased by 30 millimeters (up to 170 millimeters), the strength of the body's power elements increased. Salon got a more powerful stove. The Soviet analogue of the Fiat 124 received an additional towing eye and two separate places for jacking.

Criticism of the model

Many experts already at that time spoke out against the Fiat 124 Coupe, being of the opinion that the rear-wheel drive design was becoming obsolete. last days, and in the case of this car, there are no opportunities for its further improvement.

Despite the rather controversial reviews, in the USSR the car was quite highly appreciated by both specialists and ordinary motorists, especially given the fact that the domestic auto industry was not a strong enough competitor for the Italian one.

Model range "Fiat 124"

The release of a large-sized version with improved equipment began in 1967: the car was almost identical to the 124th model, but was equipped with leaf spring suspension and a 90 horsepower engine. At the same time, an improved Fiat 124 Speciale began to be produced, equipped with an overhead power unit with a capacity of 70 horsepower. It was this version that was used as a prototype for the VAZ-2103, despite the fact that the domestic car was originally supposed to be created according to the Fiat 125 patterns.

Two-shaft engines were installed by the Italian concern on the Fiat 124 Sport Spider and Coupe, the development of the body for which was carried out by the Pininfarina studio. It is difficult to call them direct descendants of the original 124th model: both cars were produced limited series on special orders.

In the station wagon body, a more versatile cargo-passenger version of the car was produced - the Fiat 124 Familiare, which was used as a prototype for the VAZ-2102.

Model Sport Coupe

Public debut in 1967 Fiat models 124 Sport Coupe, created on the basis of a three-volume model. Serial production of the car was launched in Turin and continued until 1975, giving way to the Fiat 131.

Unlike previous model Spider, the new Abarth received significant changes to both the exterior and interior, retuned suspension, aimed at improving the car's behavior on the track and its handling. The developers of the car set themselves the main goal - to create the perfect car with excellent dynamics and excellent handling.

Exterior

Fiat 124 Abarth is a stylish, bright, incredibly aesthetic and even sexy car that attracts attention. Compared to the classic Spider, you can see that the front of the body received a more aggressive bumper design, a redesigned false radiator grille and air intake, a new design for fog optics and the Abarth logo placed on the hood.

The profile of the car is made in the best traditions of sports cars: the windshield is littered back, the cockpit is shifted to the rear wheels, and an elongated hood. Design innovations include sporty skirts, bright red side mirrors, exclusive wheels and Abarth logo badges placed behind the front wheel arches.

The rear of the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth has also been redesigned with a more aggressive bumper, aerodynamic diffuser and integrated exhaust pipes.

The Spider Abarth body is made in the following dimensions:

Length - 4054 mm.
Height - 1233 mm.
Width - 1740 millimeters.
Wheelbase - 2310 millimeters.

The exclusive car is equipped with light-alloy wheels with a unique design and a diameter of 18 inches. The ground clearance of the sports car is 135 millimeters, which is very, very low for Russian roads.

Interior

The dashboard architecture is almost identical to that of the standard Spider and Mazda MX-5 except for individual elements. The three-spoke multifunction steering wheel is adorned with the Abarth logo in the center and the zero position mark. The instrument panel is divided into three sections and features a red-trimmed speedometer. A seven-inch display is located in the central part of the instrument panel multimedia system and an ergonomic climate control unit. The pedals have metal lining, and the interior trim is made using Alcantara, which is one of the most sought-after materials in supercar interiors.

The range of adjustment of the front seats is huge, which allows a person of any height and complexion to fit comfortably and comfortably on them.

The massive central tunnel, located between the seats, is equipped with a gearshift lever, controls Fiat system Connect 7 and small box. There is no usual glove compartment in the cabin, and there are not enough separate pockets and niches. Interior decoration is made at the highest level using exclusive materials - Alcantara, soft plastic, aluminum and genuine leather.

The luggage compartment offers 140 liters of usable space and is covered with a mechanically folding soft roof along with the interior.

Specifications of the sports car

The standard Fiat 124 Spider is equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine 140 horsepower, which in the exclusive version of Abarth was replaced by a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine MultiAir with 170 horsepower. The maximum speed as a result of this change increased to 230 km / h, and the acceleration time to the first hundred was 6.8 seconds.

Surprisingly, such an increase in power had practically no effect on fuel consumption: in combined mode, the sports car consumes 6-6.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.

Paired with a turbocharged engine, a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Gear shifting at the Sequenziale Sportivo machine is carried out with the help of steering-wheel paddles.

The top version of the Abarth is based on the well-known rear-wheel-drive bogie previously used in the Mazda MX-5. The curb weight of the car is 1060 kilograms, while a well-thought-out layout made it possible to distribute it along the axes in a ratio of 50:50. The Italian concern Fiat stated that the Abarth chassis was completely reconfigured, which, coupled with the installation of a kit Bilstein pendants allowed to achieve incredible controllability. The charged version of the Spider Abarth is also equipped with a Brembo braking system, a sports exhaust system and a self-locking differential.

Compared to Japanese analogue of Mazda MX-5 steering Fiat has a heavier one due to the electric booster. As a result, the sports car behaves much more predictably and accurately on the track, giving the driver a real pleasure in the driving process. Numerous reviews of car owners confirm this.

Safety system

The Fiat 124 Abarth hasn't seen much change in terms of safety. Despite this, the programmed deformation zones, a large number of assistant systems and a special protective frame provide high level protection and safety for both driver and passenger. Security systems offered include:

Four airbags.
Cruise control.
Stabilization system and four-channel ABS system.
Torque control system.
Tire pressure sensors.
Efficient Brembo braking system.
Brake force control and distribution system.
Parking assistant.
Running and fog LED-lights.
Rear view camera.
Hill assist system.
Three point harness security and other systems.

In terms of safety and reliability, the compact sports car Fiat 124 Spider Abarth is practically not inferior to its more dimensional competitors. This is noted by many motorists.

Options and current prices

Special edition Fiat 124 Spider Abarth on European automotive markets implemented official dealers at a minimum price of 40 thousand euros (approximately 2.8 million rubles), while for American markets sports car is offered at a price of 28.2 thousand dollars.

Unfortunately, the Spider Abarth sports car is not officially presented in Russia, just like the standard Fiat 124 Spider. The probability of both models entering the domestic market tends to zero, which is explained not only by the extremely high cost, but also by the low popularity of cars Fiat brands among Russian motorists. However, purchase exclusive car it is also possible at European dealers with its subsequent distillation to Russia.

Most of Us (you) know about the deal of our state in those Soviet years with the Fiat company, which is simple in principle. But do you, friends, know why the management of the car factory chose the architecture of Fiat cars for their first Kopeek cars? What led them to this choice? No, don't you? Here is our detailed story about it.

Believe it or not, dear readers, but the fact remains that initially, the Central Automotive Research Institute of our country (NAMI) proposed to establish front-wheel drive cars of the Renault 16 brand as their basis. True, this NAMI was most satisfied with their front-wheel drive platform. Otherwise, NAMI engineers did not like this base of Renault 16 cars at all. As a result, AvtoVAZ did not choose french car as a basis for their first Lada models and therefore the leadership of our country settled on the following two options, namely, on Fiat 124 and Fiat 125 cars.

For example, the chief engineer of NAMI believed that the Fiat 125 car was most suitable as a base for the first Lada models. The thing is, this 125th Fiat model was considered enough high class machine and at one time sold well throughout Europe. Thus, the chief engineer believed that a production based on the Fiat 125 car would contribute to good sales the first Lada models in the same West.

Differences between Fiat 124 (top) and Fiat 125 (bottom). Wheelbase Fiat 125 - 2505 mm, wheelbase Fiat 124 - 2420 mm. In addition, the Fiat 125 has leaf springs on the rear suspension, while the Fiat 124 has coil springs.

To my deepest regret, this car The Fiat 125 was based on and built on the old Fiat 1300 and 1500 models, which had been produced by that time since 1961, when compared with more modern model Fiat 124 cars. For example, the Fiat 1300 and 1500 models at that time were equipped with a rear leaf spring suspension, while the Fiat 124's suspension was more modern and reliable (it no longer has any rear springs).

The main problem and stumbling block in the deal between our state and the Fiat company was the engine. We did not need the obsolete OHV 124 engine. Understanding this, Fiat went to meet our government, offering to develop specially new engines for us and send in the future after the development of the production of the latter is completed, all the equipment necessary for this. The Fiat company even provided AvtoVAZ with all the available documentation for 1.5-liter engines, which were planned to be subsequently installed on the VAZ-2103 car model.

But to accept final decision, which engines will be installed on the first Lada cars, NAMI tested other engines from other foreign cars. Thus, in the course of the tests, we tested following cars: -Moskvich 408, Ford Taunus 12M, Morris 1100, Peugeot 204, Renault R16, Skoda MB1000 and ZAZ (Zaporozhets). As a result comparative tests defeated the engine Renault car R16.

But nevertheless, and in spite of everything, our country decided to conclude this treaty with Italian company. Apparently, the fact that in those years in Italy the communist government, which had friendly relations with our country, was in power, played a big role in the final choice.

So, for example, in those years, the Minister of the Automobile Industry of the USSR Alexander Tarasov said the following verbatim: "The Italians are closer to us than the French".

Fiat tests in Russia.

In order to create a domestic version of the Fiat 124 car, italian cars in July 1966 were brought to the USSR for long tests. The goal was one, the adaptation of future models to the harsh domestic road conditions. The tests took place at a special training ground near Moscow on a vast territory, where there were harsh road conditions. In the end, the first cars on the roads of the Dmitrovsky test site, after a run of 5,000 km, completely failed such tests.

So, for example, during the test, it became immediately clear that ground clearance Fiat 124 is simply not enough to operate it on the country roads of our country. Including during the tests, problems with the brake system, as well as body defects, were established and identified. In addition, Soviet engineers had complaints about the suspension design itself, which also proved to be not with better side. The Italian delegation was in complete shock and simply fell into a panic. As a matter of urgency, the Italians still had to quickly adapt these cars to Russian realities.

Modified Fiat cars were tested at the NAMI test site from November 17 to December 10, 1966, having traveled to general order 12,000 thousand km (8,000 thousand km on roads made of small cobblestones, 2,000 thousand km on large cobblestones and another 2,000 thousand km on dirt roads)

As a result, by the end of 1966, the Italians had fully prepared the modified Fiat 124 cars, taking into account all the criticism.

These modified vehicles arrived in the USSR in November 1966. They had a significantly improved reinforced chassis. After 12,000 thousand km of tests, some cars still had problems with the suspension. But nevertheless, compared to previous samples, there were already much fewer cracks (only 5 cracks against 17 previously found in cars tested in the summer of 1966).

By the way, some of these cracks had a length of more than 150 mm. In this regard, our engineers decided to make their own adjustments to the design of the suspension, having previously coordinated them with the Fiat company.

Here is a photo of the front right lower wishbone with a characteristic defect (detected at the 13th thousand kilometers of a new car)

But despite all this, the test results showed the following, that these cars are still not ready for Soviet road realities. So for example, the rubber bushings of the front suspension constantly failed. Another serious problem on the car was the rear brakes of the Fiat 124, which at that time were already disc brakes. Also, the rear ones had a very low service life. And when sand and salt from the roads fell on the back brake system, then problems with the brakes immediately began. The Italians were very proud of the disk rear brakes in their car Fiat 124 and stubbornly refused to change them to drum ones. But in the end they had to accept it and give up.

Engine and gearbox.

The engines that appeared on the first Lada models and those created on the basis of Fiat 124 models were not such engines from Fiat. The thing is, our engineers considered the Fiat 124-series OHV engine to be too old and without any possibility of improvement in the future. Therefore, having coordinated everything with the Fiat companies, our engineers developed their own version of engines for the first Zhiguli cars. So, for example, the designers increased the distance between the engine cylinders to a diameter of 95 mm. Also, while maintaining the same working volume of the Fiat-124 OHV engine (1198 cc), Soviet specialists increased the cylinder diameter from 73 to 76 mm, and at the same time reduced the piston stroke from 71.3 mm to 66 mm. Thus, due to such a short piston stroke, this motor has become more fluid.

Including this motor got new head block.

The Italians liked all these changes that were made by our engineers for the first Lada models during the finalization of the power unit. In addition, the design itself has also been changed. mechanical box gears. So for example, the gearbox received large clutches and reinforced synchronizers with shafts from the Fiat 124 Sport. Including underwent modernization and the cardan shaft itself.

Unfortunately, the resulting 1.2-liter engine at that time had a lot of unrealized potential. For example, simple tuning basic version with a 1.2-liter engine increased engine power to 100 liters. With. (and this is at that time). The thing is, these first Lada production cars had attachments very poor quality. First of all, we are talking about bad and low-quality carburetors, which did not give the engines the necessary power that they could give out at that time.

Modernization.

In 1967, the second station wagon was released. By the way, this car was not the station wagon version of the VAZ-2101, which received the name VAZ-2102. In fact, this station wagon was a modification of the VAZ-2103 car. This station wagon really looked like a VAZ-2103 - the same four headlights, the same door handles and the same bumpers. The car received the code designation - 124S.

But in those years, the negotiations of our country with the leadership of the Fiat company had not yet ended. So our engineers asked the same Italians to make certain changes for the first Zhiguli model, which was to be produced under the designation VAZ-2101. The necessary changes were also agreed in the second model of the machine. Thanks to this, the VAZ-2102 car acquired a completely different appearance.

In particular, it was decided to change the engines for the first models of cars. For example, the volume of the 1.2-liter engine was increased to a volume of 1293 cubic meters. see as a result of which this engine began to be positioned as a 1.3-liter power unit.

1451 cc engine cm was increased to a volume of 1568 cubic meters. see These motors later became the basis for cars of the VAZ-21011 and 2106 brands.

The Fiat company offered its modification in the station wagon body based on the VAZ-2103 car. But our leadership was not interested in this version. As a result, it was decided to produce the VAZ-2102 car with the appearance of the VAZ-2101 model.

The production of the VAZ-2103 car began in the fourth quarter of 1972. It is interesting that the VAZ-2101 and VAZ-2103 models passed road tests after the start of production.

In 1974, the VAZ-2101 received a restyling, which began to be produced under the designation VAZ-21011

By the way, before you are two photographs in which you can see two, once rejected proposals for restyling, the VAZ-2101 car:

And here is a photo of a VAZ-2106 car:

Initially, the VAZ-2106 car was developed as a restyling for the VAZ-2103, which was to be released under the designation VAZ-21031 (the plant followed the same logic as with the restyling of the VAZ-2101, which was called the VAZ-21011). But in the end, the AvtoVAZ plant decided to rename the serial version of the new model into the VAZ-2106 car model. This model went into further serial production starting from February 21, 1976.

In 1977, the first 5 examples (samples) of the new VAZ-2105 car model were created. This model was supposed to replace the first generations of Zhiguli. That's what the government wanted. But, unfortunately, Soviet engineers failed to create a completely different car, thereby moving away from the Fiat 124 model platform, which was already outdated in those years.

After all, many engineers then understood that for such a change in the car, a serious technological modernization of the entire production was required. For example, just to change only one line of the car roof body at the plant, it was necessary to change all the old equipment, that is, change it to new and rather expensive highly specialized equipment. The car factory then simply could not count on such large financial injections. The Soviet planned economy drove AvtoVAZ into a very tight framework and the designers had to "sculpt" a car from what they had.

As a result, the VAZ-2105 was created, which did not differ much in its body lines from those first Zhiguli models.

It is noteworthy that the Soviet designers initially proposed to equip this VAZ-2105 with four headlights, but then this idea was rejected.

By the way, here is another project of a car with four headlights. It was developed by engineer V. Pashko in 1975. The car received the designation VAZ-2101-80. The code 80 in the name of the car indicated the year 1980, when this model was planned for serial launch.

And here is the final version of the serial VAZ-2105 presented to the government in 1980. Model designer - V. Stepanov, chief engineer - V. Kvasdov.

This car was equipped with square headlights, new bumpers, halogen lamps, interior mirror rear view, heated rear window, belt drive and polyurethane packing.

"Secret" modifications.

In the USSR there were several interesting modifications cars with rotary engine based on the VAZ-2105 and VAZ-2107 models.
These machines had (carried) the number "9" in their name at the end:

VAZ-21019, VAZ-21059, namely:

21018 - single rotor Wankel VAZ-311, -70 hp With.
21019 - double rotor Wankel VAZ-411, -120 hp With.
21059 - double rotor Wankel VAZ-4132, -140 hp With.
21079 - double rotor Wankel VAZ-413X, -140 hp With.

Fiat 124- this iconic car, better known in the USSR and the CIS as the VAZ 2101 or "penny", was developed in Italy, and was produced from 1966 to 1974, although it was produced in different states until the 90s.

Specifications Fiat 124
(1966-1974)

Basic data
Manufacturer	Fait
Years of production	1966-1974
Class	family car
body type	4-door 5-door
Layout	front motor rear wheel drive
Mass-dimensional
Length	Sedan - 4042 mm Wagon - 4045 mm
Width	1625 mm
Height	Sedan - 1420 mm Wagon - 1440 mm
Wheelbase	2420 mm
Curb weight	855-950 kg
Characteristics
Engine	1197 cc OHV I4 1438 cc OHV I4 1438 cc DOHC I4 1592 cc DOHC I4 1756 cc DOHC I4
Transmission	4-st. mechanical 5-st. mechanical (Special T)

Historical reference

Back in the early 60s, the company's specialists began developing a 3-volume sedan, and already in 1964 its prototypes were shown to the world. This was followed by another 2 years of finishing work, and in 1966 it was presented at the Paris Motor Show. The model turned out to be so successful that in the next (1967) year it was recognized as the “Car of the Year”. And many countries bought the right to produce it.

Exterior

The appearance of the Fiat 124 is classic. Round head optics, a massive radiator grille, rather large direction indicators, a slightly protruding bumper, smooth outlines of the wings and an almost square hood with air ducts - this is the image of the front of this car.

In profile, Fiat looks calm and reserved. Wings, doors, windows - all this is done smoothly and monolithically. All components are proportional and verified, nothing falls out of the overall picture. And rises above this almost flat roof.

The back of the body is modest, but not poor. Small rectangular feet, a neat trunk lid, and a bumper very similar to the front. In general, it is worth noting a significant number of chrome-plated elements in the design - bumpers, radiator grille, door handles, headlight and repeater bezels, door sills, glass perimeter moldings, windshield wipers, caps, etc.

Engine

The Fiat power unit was located longitudinally under the hood and had an in-line four-cylinder design. The engine had a volume of 1.2 liters, a carburetor, an OHV gas distribution mechanism with 8 valves and liquid cooling. The engine is oriented to AI-92 fuel.

This Fiat engine produced 60 hp. with., which was considered a good indicator for cars of those years. But in 1973, during the modernization, the engine was redesigned, and its power increased to 65 hp. With. - This was achieved by increasing the cylinder diameter to 73 mm, as well as the piston stroke to 71.5 mm.

But there were other versions produced in relatively small volumes in the 70s. The volume of their engines ranged from 1.4 to 1.6 liters, and the power - from 70 to 95 liters. With.

checkpoint

The gearbox is standard for its time - 4-speed manual, with gear ratio top gear in 1 unit And main couple- in 4.3 units. In general, such a gearbox was perfect for a 60-65 hp engine. With.

Chassis

Fiat 124 had a rear-wheel drive layout. The front suspension was independent, spring-lever. The rear axle was made according to a dependent scheme. In addition, Fiat was completed in a circle. The car did not have power steering.

Interior

Photo: Interior wagon Fiat 124 family

The salon turned out to be quite simple, but functional. The torpedo did not differ in impressive dimensions, however, it had a rather primitive wood finish, and in front of the driver was dashboard with a speedometer that occupied almost its entire area. On the sides of it were fuel and temperature gauges.

The 2-spoke steering wheel, by modern standards, had a too thin section, although for that time it was considered quite acceptable. The ignition lock was located on the left, and the gearshift lever turned out to be quite long. Like the outside, the Fiat's cabin had plenty of chrome, especially on the door cards. You can also note the presence of "windows".

The seats did not have developed lateral support, as well as head restraints. Their pillows were often unnecessarily flat and slippery. Fiat's visibility was recognized as good, despite the relatively small windshield and not the most impressive side mirrors - the rear view was not blocked by headrests, and the narrow A-pillars did not interfere with the driver.

Fiat 124 in the USSR

Choice

The leadership of the Soviet Union, making a choice regarding the mass civilian model, settled on the Fiat 124, although Renault models were also considered, and a very successful domestic hatchback IZH-13 was also prepared, which by its qualities, by the way, surpassed the Italian counterpart in almost everything.

Factors

There were several reasons for this choice:

quite modern, but simple design;
help from the Communist Party of Italy;
popularity in Europe;
space in the cabin;
classic layout;
relatively cheap to manufacture.

Recycling

Fiat 124, intended for the USSR, was seriously altered after the tests that took place in US. As a result, the designers had to make about 800 adjustments to the Fiat layout.

Engineers completely changed the rear chassis, although the spring-lever layout remained. Disk brake mechanisms, which were available on the rear axle, were replaced by .

The power unit of the model with a lower camshaft has been replaced with an overhead motor. Strength elements the bodies were made stronger, and the ground clearance was significantly increased - from 140 mm to 170 mm. A modernized and more powerful “stove” appeared in the cabin. Besides, Soviet modification equipped with an additional towing eye, as well as two pairs of places for car jacking, instead of one. In addition, the car was richer equipped and better finished.

Criticism

Already in those years, many opposed the Fiat 124, as they believed that the rear-wheel drive design was becoming obsolete, and great opportunities there was practically no room for further improvement in this model.

However, the car was highly rated in the USSR, including by ordinary car owners, especially since it had no competitors from the domestic auto industry, and Fiat left the existing models far behind in terms of their characteristics, as they were represented by hopelessly outdated copies.

The choice fell on this brand and model for several reasons. One of them was related to politics (in those years, the Soviet Union sought to help the Italian Communist Party). But other reasons were more compelling: the Fiat 124 was quite conservative in design, but at the same time quite modern for the mid-sixties; was named "Car of the Year 1966" in Europe and soon became quite popular at home and in the rest of Europe; had a classic layout, simple and familiar to Soviet motorists; was relatively spacious inside, quite inexpensive and technologically advanced in production.

Before launching in the series in the USSR, the Fiat 124 passed comprehensive tests at NAMI, as a result of which over 800 changes were made to the design of the car by the Italian side, among the most serious of them: the replacement of the lower engine with an upper one, a completely redesigned design rear suspension while maintaining its basic spring-lever scheme, replacing the rear disc brakes on drums, increased clearance by 30 mm (up to 170 mm), increased thickness of critical elements load-bearing body, including spars, the introduction of a ratchet into the engine design for starting the engine with a drive handle, the addition of a towing eye, a reinforced heater, four jacking points instead of two, etc. Accordingly, the car prepared for the USSR received the FIAT 124R (Russo) index, that's just such a reinforced and an adapted car and became a direct prototype of the VAZ-2101. In addition, the highest quality imported materials were used for the interior of the VAZ-2101, for example, palm fiber stuffing was used for the seats, which in the European market usually corresponded to higher-class models. Nevertheless, already in those years in the USSR there were separate voices expressing the opinion that the model was not chosen in the best way: it was believed that Fiat was not an outstanding achievement of automotive technology or design, it had no special reserves for subsequent modernization, moreover in those years, all the world's leading automakers began a rapid transition to front-wheel drive scheme, for example, FIAT released its first front wheel drive model 128 in 1969. Nevertheless, the car made a very positive impression on most Soviet experts and ordinary motorists, especially since according to the integral set consumer qualities it obviously surpassed the then Soviet models of the same class developed at the turn of the fifties and sixties - both the obsolete Moskvich-408, and actually the product of its shallow modernization Moskvich-412, and the subsequently developed Soviet counterparts (see articles Moskvich series 3-5 and IZH-13) did not go into the series.

In view of the relatively high consumer qualities with quite primitive design, and mainly - the liberal policy of the manufacturer in relation to know-how, which willingly concluded agreements on such cooperation, the Fiat 124 took root not only in the USSR. Under license, it (in the original Italian specification) was produced by a large number of companies in countries such as Spain (SEAT 124),

India (Premier 118NE) 1989

South Korea (Fiat-KIA 124), India (Premier 118NE), Turkey (TOFAŞ Murat 124).

Parallel production of VAZ-2101 and FIAT 124 continued in 1970-1976. Moreover, in 1972-1977, the models competed directly in the European market, including even Italy. This, in turn, led in the mid-70s to legal proceedings between the USSR and the FIAT S.A. concern. Since, combining increased body strength, high-quality interior trim and practicality (high ground clearance, the presence of a “crooked starter” and a towing eye no longer used on foreign cars), in combination with the almost dumping price of the Lada 1200 (export name VAZ-2101) had obvious competitive advantages over its rapidly aging progenitor FIAT 124, caused a boom in popularity that led to a very significant increase in exports Soviet cars not only to the countries of the socialist bloc, but also to Western Europe and the markets of third world countries, but caused direct damage to the needs of saturating the domestic market, maintaining long-term queues for cars inside the USSR. For a number of reasons, in the 1990s reverse process mass re-export brands Lada in Russia.

In 1967, a larger model with improved equipment, the Fiat 125, was launched, quite close to the 124, but with a 90-horsepower two-shaft engine and leaf spring suspension at the rear. At the same time, an improved Fiat 124 Special appeared with a 70-horsepower upper unit. It became the prototype for the "luxury" VAZ-2103 - although according to the initial plans of the Italians, "zero third" was supposed to be an analogue of another model, Fiat 125. By the way, Fiat 125P (Polacco) was produced in 1967-1991 in Poland at the FSO plant in Warsaw.

Versions of the two-shaft engine were installed on the Fiat 124 Sport Spider and Coupe with bodies from the Pininfarina studio. True, they cannot be considered direct descendants of the utilitarian "124th" - they were expensive small-scale models that shared with him only elements of the mechanical part and decoration.

There was also a more utilitarian cargo-passenger version with a station wagon body - Fiat 124 Familiare (became the prototype for the VAZ-2102).

In Italy, the production of the FIAT 124 ended in 1976, while in other countries it continued until the 90s. In the USSR, the VAZ-2101 (Fiat 124R) was discontinued in 1983, it upgraded version VAZ-21013 - in 1988, and production upgraded model(VAZ 2105) station wagon - VAZ-2104 ended on September 17, 2012.

Characteristics

For Fiat 124 basic configuration they installed an engine with a volume of 1.2 liters, with a lower camshaft, 60 liters. s., since 1967 - 65 hp
Cylinder diameter - 73 mm, piston stroke - 71.5 mm.
The rear suspension is three-link.
Front brakes - disc, rear - disc.
Curb weight - 855 kg.

	Fiat timeline, European market, 1960-1980 Next ->
Class	1960s										1970s										1980s
	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
A-class
																					Panda
B-class																								Uno
C-class																			Ritmo										Tipo
D-class		1300/1500					124																		Regata
																						Argentina				Croma I
E-class
Coupe / Roadster								dino
									124 Coupe
sports car													X1/9
Wen																		Fiorino I							Fiorino II
compact van	600 Multipla
Minivan	600T									850T						900T
	1100 BLR/ELR/I/T

																						Ducato I