The station wagon VAZ (Lada) 2102 1971 - 1985 year modification 1.2 MT (64 hp)

VAZ (Lada) 2102: A Classic Station Wagon with Timeless Appeal

The VAZ (Lada) 2102 is a classic station wagon that holds a special place in automotive history. Produced between 1971 and 1985 in Russia, this car is a testament to practicality and durability. With its 1.2-liter petrol engine and rear-wheel drive, the Lada 2102 offers a nostalgic driving experience while maintaining functionality for everyday use. Its station wagon body type provides ample cargo space, making it an ideal choice for families or those who need extra storage capacity.

Performance and Efficiency

Equipped with a 1.2 MT (64 hp) engine, the Lada 2102 delivers modest performance, with a maximum speed of 135 km/h and an acceleration time of 25 seconds to reach 100 km/h. While these figures may not impress modern drivers, they reflect the car's design philosophy: reliability over speed. The fuel consumption is reasonable for its era, with 10.8 liters per 100 km in the city and 8 liters on the highway. The car runs on normal 92-octane petrol, making it affordable to maintain.

Engine and Transmission

The Lada 2102 features a 1.2-liter inline-four petrol engine with a carburetor fuel system. With 64 horsepower and 87 Nm of torque, the engine is simple yet robust, designed for longevity rather than high performance. The four-speed manual transmission ensures a hands-on driving experience, while the rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a balanced and predictable ride. The engine's front longitudinal placement contributes to the car's stability and ease of maintenance.

Design and Dimensions

The Lada 2102 boasts a compact yet practical design, with dimensions of 4059 mm in length, 1611 mm in width, and 1458 mm in height. Its wheelbase of 2424 mm ensures a comfortable ride, while the ground clearance of 170 mm makes it suitable for various road conditions. The station wagon body type offers a generous trunk volume, ranging from 345 liters to an impressive 1345 liters when the rear seats are folded down. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for both daily commutes and long trips.

Suspension and Braking System

The car's suspension system is designed for comfort and durability. The front suspension is independent and spring-based, while the rear suspension is dependent and also spring-based. This setup provides a smooth ride, even on uneven surfaces. The braking system includes front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, offering adequate stopping power for the car's size and weight. While not as advanced as modern systems, the brakes are reliable and easy to maintain.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: The Lada 2102 is a practical and affordable car with a spacious interior and excellent cargo capacity. Its simple mechanical design makes it easy to repair and maintain, and its rear-wheel-drive configuration offers a classic driving experience. The car's durability and historical significance add to its charm.
• Cons: The Lada 2102's performance is modest by modern standards, with slow acceleration and limited top speed. The fuel efficiency, while reasonable for its time, may not meet the expectations of today's drivers. Additionally, the lack of modern safety features could be a concern for some buyers.

Conclusion

The VAZ (Lada) 2102 is more than just a car; it's a piece of automotive history. Its timeless design, practicality, and durability make it a beloved classic for enthusiasts and collectors. While it may not compete with modern vehicles in terms of performance or technology, its charm and simplicity continue to captivate drivers around the world. Whether you're looking for a reliable daily driver or a nostalgic addition to your collection, the Lada 2102 is a car worth considering.