VAZ-2114
| Company type | Public |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | April 1, 1966 in Tolyatti, Russia |
| Headquarters | Tolyatti , Russia |
| Products | Automobiles (including Lada Samara) |
The VAZ-2108, widely known as the Lada Samara across much of Western Europe and initially branded as the Lada Sputnik within Russia, represents a line of small family cars manufactured by the Russian company AvtoVAZ under the Lada marque from 1984 until 2013. The designation Samara was originally reserved for export variants, while the domestic market referred to it as Sputnik until 1991, when the sedan model adopted the export name. It holds the distinction of being the Soviet Union’s first mass-produced front-wheel drive vehicle since the LuAZ-969V. Over its production span, the Samara experienced various updates and design revisions before ceasing manufacture in December 2013.
VAZ-2108
The Samara merged sturdy build quality and straightforward maintenance with contemporary design elements. Available in three-, four-, and five-door configurations, it was equipped with petrol engines sized at 1.1, 1.3, and 1.5 litres. VAZ intended the Samara to rival mainstream European models, as its older Fiat 124-derived Zhiguli lineup was becoming obsolete. This model marked VAZ’s second independently developed vehicle (following the Niva SUV) and was their first to depart from Fiat 124 mechanical components.
Development
During the early 1970s, VAZ introduced its initial front-wheel drive prototype, the VAZ-1101, which utilized a Fiat 127 powerplant. This prototype evolved into a 900 cc three-door hatchback named Ladoga by 1976. The decision to develop what became the Samara was finalized on 16 September 1978 with a focus on penetrating Western European export markets. Various body styles were considered, including saloon, four-door, and hatchback options; ultimately, the saloon shared its sheetmetal forward of the C-pillar with the three-door hatchback, while work on a four-door model shifted to the VAZ-2110 project. Designers analyzed competitors such as the Renault 9, Volkswagen Golf Mk1, Ford Escort Mark III, Opel Kadett, and Volvo 340. The vehicle incorporated MacPherson strut front suspension, torsion bar rear suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering—a first for Soviet automobiles.
The initial VAZ-2108 prototype was finalized on 31 December 1979 and bore resemblance to earlier Ladoga and VAZ-1106 designs. Known domestically as Sputnik and colloquially called Vos'merka ("Eighth"), its export name referenced the Samara River. Production commenced on 18 December 1984 with three-door hatchbacks powered by a belt-driven SOHC inline-four engine displacing 1,288 cc and generating 65 hp, mated to a four-speed manual transmission. Subsequent variants included five-door models and engines adjusted to 1,099 cc (destroked) and enlarged to 1,499 cc (bored-out). The cylinder head was developed in collaboration with Porsche, while carburetors were supplied by Solex.
In 1987, the lineup expanded to include the 21083 featuring a five-speed gearbox and a 1,499 cc engine producing 72 hp, alongside an export-exclusive 21081 with a destroked 1,099 cc unit delivering 53 hp. Top speeds ranged from approximately 87 mph for the smaller engine models up to around 97 mph for those with larger displacement; fuel consumption varied between 7.9 and 9.5 L/100km depending on engine size. The same year introduced the five-door hatchback variant designated as the 2109, which offered similar engine choices. A four-door saloon (21099) debuted in 1989 featuring redesigned bonnet, grille, fenders, an extended rear overhang by roughly 200 mm, and an enhanced dashboard layout. Its updated front-end styling was later adopted by the 2109 in 1992 and subsequently by the 2108 in 1994.
Minor revisions followed over time including fuel-injected engines designed to comply with export emission regulations. Early versions featured a separate front panel surrounding the headlights; later saloons integrated fenders up to the headlights with a bonnet edge dipping between them to meet a narrower grille design. Full-scale production of the saloon began in December 1990 encompassing models such as the fuel-injected 210993 (1288 cc) and naturally aspirated 21099 (1499 cc). Marketed as a more upscale alternative to hatchbacks, this sedan carried export names like Diva (Belgium), Sagona (France), and Forma (Germany). Belgium also produced a locally assembled convertible variant. Smaller displacement engines were phased out following withdrawal from export markets; meanwhile, output from the 1.5-litre engine increased to approximately 75 hp.
Special variants
A unique version of the Samara three-door hatchback, designated 2108–91, was equipped with a two-rotor VAZ-415 Wankel engine (each rotor 654 cc) and sold exclusively within Russia in limited quantities. Featuring a five-speed transmission, this model was priced at 56,000 rubles. Its rarity stemmed from reliability challenges, leading to its primary use by law enforcement and government agencies as a high-performance pursuit vehicle, valued for its top speed and acceleration reaching 0–100 km/h in eight seconds. The five-door hatchback counterpart, the 2109-91, utilized the same VAZ-415 engine and gearbox.
Additionally, a rear-engine Samara 4x4 rally car named NAMI 0290 was developed for the 1985 Soyuz Rally. This model boasted permanent four-wheel drive and housed a 1,568 cc engine derived from the Zhiguli series positioned over the rear axle. Painted in bright orange—earning the nickname Appelsin ("orange")—it incorporated doors from the ZAZ-1102 and featured a predominantly fiberglass body weighing only , while retaining standard Samara wheels.
The mid-engined Samara-EVA of 1987 was powered by a turbocharged 1,860 cc 16-valve engine with electronic fuel injection generating ; an aspirated variant produced . The original Zhuguli 2106 engine block remained the sole unchanged component.
In 1989, the Samara S-Proto offered increased power output of . The Samara T3 secured seventh and fifth place in class at the 1990 and 1991 Paris-Dakar Rally, piloted by Jacky Ickx. Despite bearing the Samara name, it incorporated minimal original parts, utilizing the four-wheel drive system from the Porsche 959 alongside a 3.6-litre Porsche flat-six engine. This vehicle was a product of collaborative development between French Lada importer Lada-Poch, NAMI, and Tupolev, exemplifying advanced joint engineering efforts.
During the mid-1980s, Lada introduced its inaugural convertible—the Lada Natasha Cabriolet—a four-seat model based on the Samara 1300/1500 series featuring a manually operated canvas roof. In certain European markets throughout the 1990s, both Natasha and Samara models were offered with the LADA Niva 4X4’s 1600 cc engine option.
Exports
The Samara was distributed worldwide, reaching markets from Australia to Canada, across most of Europe and within the COMECON countries. It was recognized for build quality superior to many Eastern European competitors. Dealers frequently offered customized versions including unique decals, badges, or convertible conversions—especially prevalent in Belgium and Germany. The VAZ 21099 (Samara Sedan) appeared under various names depending on region: Sagona (France, Canada, Spain), Diva (Belgium, Netherlands), Forma (Germany), and Sable (Australia, New Zealand).
Right-hand drive adaptations were specifically produced for the UK market between November 1987 and VAZ’s withdrawal in July 1997. Throughout this period, the Samara stood as Lada’s best-selling model in Britain.
In countries where diesel engines benefited from favorable taxation—such as France and the Benelux region—a 1.5-litre Peugeot diesel variant was offered from 1995 until 1997.
Following financial setbacks during 1996–97, VAZ experienced a significant drop in export volumes. The Samara ceased sales in Canada after 1997, leaving only the Lada Niva available there in 1998. Similar discontinuations occurred in Australia and Great Britain due to GM’s reluctance to provide fuel-injection components amid concerns over VAZ’s payment reliability. Challenges including spare parts shortages, tax complications, and Russia’s economic instability during the mid-1990s further impeded export activities and right-hand drive production.
To enhance quality for European customers, the upscale Lada EuroSamara (also known as Samara Baltic) was assembled at Finland's Valmet Automotive facility in Uusikaupunki from mid-1996 until July 1998. Approximately 14,000 units were manufactured there using about 85% Russian-sourced components.
British market
The United Kingdom did not see the Samara until nearly three years following its initial launch in the USSR, with sales commencing in November 1987 and achieving a fairly solid reception initially.
In a road test by The Motor magazine, the Samara received scores above 5 out of 10 across most categories. It was commended for its generous standard equipment, an "impressive" engine, clear visibility, competitive performance metrics, fuel economy, handling capabilities, and relatively low cabin noise. However, critiques focused on its interior quality appearing cheap, the use of plastic trim, and a somewhat harsh ride over uneven surfaces.
At launch, the price stood at £4,795, positioning it noticeably below rivals such as the Peugeot 309 and Ford Escort 1300. The Samara remained on sale in the UK until July 1997 when Lada withdrew from Britain and many other export markets. It found comparatively greater success in regions that valued durability, including Canada, Australia, and Finland.
Though it represented progress over previous Lada models, the Samara’s higher cost placed it in competition with more established Western European vehicles. By its introduction, the British small family car segment was split between mainstream mass-market manufacturers (Ford, Vauxhall, Volkswagen) and lower-cost Eastern European and Asian brands (Škoda, FSO, Hyundai, Proton).
By 1996 and 1997, the aging Samara ranked at the bottom in surveys conducted by JD Power and Top Gear within Great Britain.
Versions
Initially available as three- or five-door hatchbacks powered by a 1.3L petrol engine, a 1.5L variant was added in October 1988. Metallic paint options were introduced with the 1.5 SLX model in November 1989. A new entry-level 1.1L petrol version launched in July 1990 under Select or L trims. In April 1991, an updated Samara featuring revised trim levels was released, followed by the introduction of the VAZ 21099 saloon model fifteen months later. The saloon received a sporty "Juno" edition with a 1.5L engine in July 1994, which included alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. Fuel injection technology was incorporated into both the 1.3L and 1.5L engines by August 1996.
Australian market
The Samara appeared on the Australian market in July 1988 with offerings including three-door hatchback and convertible versions. A three-door Bizivan model lacking rear seats qualified as a commercial van to benefit from reduced import tariffs. By 1990, the range was streamlined to a single five-door model named the Lada Cevaro. The three-door variant returned in 1994 as the Lada Volante alongside the four-door Lada Sable. Imports discontinued by 1996.
In 1988 approximately 6,000 Samaras underwent modifications by Peter Brock's Special Vehicles division and were marketed as the Lada Samara Sedan Brock Delux. These featured suspension enhancements and a distinctive body kit, carrying a premium of about A$3,000 over standard models.
Samara 2
After 1997, sales of the Samara focused mainly on domestic markets and countries with more relaxed emissions regulations. The Samara 2—a mildly updated model equipped with a single-point fuel-injected 1,499 cc engine and an improved transmission—was released in limited quantities as the four-door VAZ 2115 during 1997. Manufactured by VAZ’s special vehicles division, it included upgraded braking systems and interior components sourced from the VAZ 2110. Full-scale production began at Togliatti in 2000; subsequently, a five-door version (2114) was introduced in 2002 followed by a three-door (2113) in September 2004 to meet dealer requests.
In late 2001, multi-point fuel injection was added to comply with Euro 3 emission standards. Production of the original Samara ended at Togliatti in 2004 after twenty years; nevertheless, classic variants continued to be produced at Ukraine’s ZAZ from 2004 and Kazakhstan’s Azia Avto starting in 2007.
An upgraded Samara 2 featuring a modernized 1.6-liter VAZ-11183-20 engine derived from the VAZ 2110 debuted in January 2007. Despite competition from newer domestic Lada models like the Lada 110 and Priora, demand for the Samara remained consistent due to its attractive pricing. Sedan manufacturing ceased in December 2012 while hatchback production persisted until late 2013.
Technical specifications
- Trim levels: Various configurations were available depending on the market and production year, with numerous Western European versions enhanced by importers.
Engine details
- Engine codes: VAZ 21081, VAZ 2108, VAZ 21083, VAZ 21084; VAZ 415 (Wankel rotary type)
- Valve system: OHC
- Engine capacity (cc): 1100, 1288, 1500, 1568; dual 654 cc for the Wankel engine
- Cylinder bore (mm): 76.0, 76.0, 82.0, 82.0
- Piston stroke (mm): 60.6, 71.0, 71.0, 74.2
- Compression ratio: Ranged from 9.0:1 up to 9.8:1
- Power output: at 5600 rpm (1100); at 5600 rpm (1300); at 4800 rpm (1500); at 5600 rpm (1600); at 6000 rpm (Wankel)
- Fuel delivery: Either a two-barrel carburetor or multipoint electronic fuel injection
- Fuel recommendation: Regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87
Drivetrain
- Layout: Front-mounted engine paired with front-wheel drive
- Gearbox: Available with either a four-speed or five-speed synchromesh transmission; initial models were equipped with a four-speed manual
Chassis and body
- Available body types:
- Subsequent models featured refreshed styling and updated model codes:
- 3-door hatchback (VAZ 2113)
- 5-door hatchback (VAZ 2114)
- 4-door sedan (VAZ 2115)
- Multiple commercial and specialized variants were also produced
- Suspension setup:
- Front: MacPherson strut combined with coil springs
- Rear: Longitudinal arms supported by a cross beam and coil springs
- Steering system: Rack-and-pinion mechanism
- Brake system:
- Front brakes: Power-assisted disc brakes
- Rear brakes: Drum brakes
- Wheel dimensions: Steel wheels measuring 13 inches in diameter
- Tire specifications: Steel-belted all-season radials sized at 165/70x13
Safety by modern standards
In a frontal collision assessment conducted by Russian ARCAP in 2002, the RosLada-produced VAZ-2109 achieved a score of only 2.7 out of a possible 16 points. While the vehicle's structure demonstrated robustness, it lacked contemporary passive safety technologies. Later, in 2004, the VAZ-2114 five-door model earned half a star out of four in crash testing, reflecting moderate damage to critical structural zones but significant force transmitted to the lower leg area.
First generation
By the year 2003, three distinct trim options were available: Standard (designated as "00" or "20" for fuel-injected variants such as the VAZ-21083-00), Norma ("01" and "21"), and Luxe ("02" and "22"), each varying according to body style.
In the three-door hatchback lineup, the Standard trim included features such as an onboard control system, tweed fabric seats, metallic exterior paint, roof luggage rack, and front head restraints; the "20" version further incorporated microprocessor-based ignition, electric door locks, and an immobilizer system. The Norma trim added seatback pockets in tweed upholstery, door panel inserts, trunk carpeting, and an anti-glare sun visor with mirror; its "21" variant introduced a catalytic converter along with a fuel vapor recovery system. The Luxe trim offered enhancements including headlamp washers, anti-dazzle side mirrors, and tinted glass windows.
For the five-door hatchback models, Standard trim came equipped with tweed upholstery featuring seat pockets, fabric door panels, trunk lining plus rack, front head restraints, and metallic paint; version "20" shared similar electronic upgrades as other body types. The Norma trim added rear headrests and an anti-glare visor; Luxe included power front windows and fog lights.
Sedan trims closely followed the five-door hatchback's configuration except that fog lamps were first introduced starting from the Norma level.
Second generation
Two distinct trim levels were available: Norma and Luxe. The Norma version included steel rims, an immobilizer system, central locking, tweed fabric covering the seats and door panels, a steering column adjustable in height, power-operated front windows, front headrests, a spoiler on the tailgate, and protective door moldings. The Luxe edition enhanced the package with unique wheel covers, a trip computer, velvet seat upholstery, heat-insulating glass, rear headrests, a vanity mirror on the passenger sun visor, and heated seats for the front passengers.
See also
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