The Lada 21104 1.6 16V, produced between 2004 and 2007, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the Lada 2110 series, a mainstay of the Russian automotive market and a significant export for AvtoVAZ. This particular variant, equipped with the 16-valve 1.6-liter engine producing 90 horsepower, occupied a crucial position in the lineup as a balance between affordability and acceptable performance. It aimed to provide a more modern driving experience compared to the earlier 8-valve models, while remaining accessible to a broad customer base. The 21104 continued the legacy of the 2110, which itself was based on the aging but robust underpinnings of the original VAZ-2105, heavily derived from the Fiat 124. This model was primarily sold within Russia and neighboring Eastern European countries, with limited exports elsewhere.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | 2110 |
| Generation | 21104 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | EURO 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 131 Nm @ 3700 rpm (96.62 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 21124 |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Kerb Weight | 1030 kg (2270.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1505 kg (3317.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal) |
| Length | 4265 mm (167.91 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2492 mm (98.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Threaded twist beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 21104 1.6 16V is the 21124 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine represented a significant upgrade over the older 8-valve designs, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. This configuration allowed for improved breathing and higher engine speeds, resulting in the 90 horsepower output. The engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, providing more precise fuel delivery compared to earlier carburetor setups. The 21124 engine was known for its relative simplicity and robustness, although it wasn’t particularly refined by modern standards. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing adequate gear ratios for everyday driving. While an automatic transmission was available on some 2110 models, it was not commonly paired with the 1.6 16V engine due to its limited torque output and the automatic’s impact on fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 21104 1.6 16V offered a noticeable improvement in performance over the older 8-valve Ladas. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 11.9 seconds, and it could reach a top speed of 113.71 mph. However, it wasn’t a particularly quick car by contemporary standards. The 90 horsepower engine felt adequate for city driving and highway cruising, but overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but the shift quality was often described as notchy and imprecise. Compared to the more powerful 1.8-liter or the diesel variants, the 1.6 16V felt underpowered, but it offered better fuel economy and a lighter front end, contributing to slightly more nimble handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 21104 1.6 16V typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features included power steering, central locking, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included power windows, air conditioning, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level of the 21104 1.6 16V generally fell into the mid-range of the lineup, offering a step up from the base models but lacking the luxury features found in the higher-spec versions.
Chassis & Braking
The 21104 utilized a relatively simple chassis design. The front suspension consisted of independent McPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed a threaded twist beam. This setup provided a reasonable ride quality, but it wasn’t particularly sophisticated. The braking system featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. This configuration was adequate for the car’s weight and performance, but it lacked the stopping power and feel of more modern braking systems. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic assistance, providing reasonable steering feel and maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada 21104 1.6 16V was generally well-received in its target market, offering a good balance of affordability, reliability, and performance. Critics praised its improved engine compared to the older 8-valve models, but noted its lack of refinement and relatively basic interior. Compared to the 1.8-liter version, the 1.6 16V offered better fuel economy but less power. The diesel variants provided even better fuel economy but were more expensive to purchase and maintain. In terms of reliability, the 21124 engine proved to be reasonably durable, but it was prone to oil leaks and required regular maintenance.
Legacy
The Lada 21104 1.6 16V remains a common sight on the roads of Russia and other Eastern European countries. While it’s no longer in production, it has developed a reputation as a reliable and affordable used car. The 21124 engine, while not a technological marvel, proved to be a robust and relatively easy-to-repair powerplant. Today, these cars are often sought after by enthusiasts and those looking for a simple, inexpensive mode of transportation. Parts availability remains relatively good, and the car’s simple construction makes it a popular choice for DIY mechanics. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s age and the potential for rust and mechanical wear.
