VAZ-2103: A Classic Sedan from the Soviet Era
The VAZ-2103, also known as WAZ-2103 Zhiguli (ВАЗ-2103 «Жигули») or Lada 1500, was a classic sedan that emerged during the Soviet era. Produced by WAZ in Togliatti, USSR, this car made its mark from 1972 to 1984.
Design and Body: Belonging to the C segment, the VAZ-2103 featured a traditional 4-door sedan body. With its distinctive styling and iconic presence on the roads, it became a symbol of the automotive landscape during its production period.
Powerful Engine: Under the hood, the VAZ-2103 was equipped with a robust petrol engine. The inline-4 engine had a displacement of 1.5 liters, delivering a power output of 75 horsepower. This engine, coupled with a 4-speed manual transmission, provided a driving experience suitable for its time.
Rear-Wheel Drive Dynamics: The car featured rear-wheel drive, a common configuration during that era. Its dynamics and handling were characteristic of the driving preferences of the time.
Dimensions: The VAZ-2103 had a well-proportioned body, with a length of 4040 mm, a width of 1610 mm, and a height of 1430 mm. The wheelbase measured to provide stability on the road.
Legacy and Succession: As part of the Zhiguli family, the VAZ-2103 had its place among the Soviet automobiles. It succeeded the Łada 2101 and was later succeeded by the Łada 2106.
Production and Popularity: Produced in the USSR, the VAZ-2103 gained popularity both domestically and internationally. Its classic design and reliable performance contributed to its success during its production years.
End of an Era: The production of the VAZ-2103 ceased in 1984, marking the end of an era for this iconic sedan. Despite the passage of time, it remains a nostalgic symbol of Soviet automotive history.
The VAZ-2103, with its timeless design and enduring legacy, continues to be remembered as a classic representation of automotive excellence from the Soviet era.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Alternate Names | WAZ-2103 Zhiguli, Łada (Lada) 1500 |
| Manufacturer | WAZ |
| Production Period | 1972 – 1984 |
| Production Location | USSR, Togliatti |
| Predecessor | VAZ-2101 |
| Successor | VAZ-2106 |
| Segment | C |
| Body Type | 4-door sedan |
| Engines | – Petrol: 1.5L, 75 HP; 1.2L (21035), 64 HP; 1.3L (21033), 69 HP |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Dimensions | – Length: 4116 mm |
| – Width: 1611 mm | |
| – Height: 1446 mm | |
| – Wheelbase: 2424 mm | |
| Weight | 1050 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |