The Izh 21261, specifically the 1.8-liter (99 horsepower) variant, represents a late attempt by the Izhevsk Automobile Plant (IzhAvto) to modernize its offerings in the early 2000s. Produced between 2002 and 2005, this station wagon (estate) was a direct descendant of the long-running Izh Kombi series, itself rooted in designs dating back to the Moskvitch 412. The 21261 aimed to provide a practical and affordable family vehicle for the Russian market, though it faced increasing competition from foreign imports and newer domestic models. This particular engine and transmission combination occupied a middle ground in the 21261 lineup, offering a balance between cost, performance, and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Izh |
| Model | 21261 |
| Generation | 21261 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (99 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 140 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 99 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3200 rpm (103.26 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1816 cm3 (110.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs) |
| Length | 4053 mm (159.57 in) |
| Width | 1660 mm (65.35 in) |
| Height | 1437 mm (56.57 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2470 mm (97.24 in) |
| Front track | 1390 mm (54.72 in) |
| Rear track | 1370 mm (53.94 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/65 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Izh 21261 1.8 was the ZMZ-4062.10 engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, while a relatively modern design for its time, was still based on older Soviet engineering principles. It featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, a significant upgrade from the carburetors found on earlier Izh models. The engine produced 99 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 140 Nm (103.26 lb-ft) of torque at 3200 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The transmission was a five-speed manual, which was the standard offering for this variant. While an automatic transmission was available on some 21261 models, it was typically paired with the less powerful 1.5-liter engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8-liter engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the Izh 21261. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 13 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 165 km/h (102.53 mph). Compared to the 1.5-liter versions, the 1.8 offered noticeably more power, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, it wasn’t as responsive as some of the more modern engines available in competing vehicles. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing reasonable gear ratios for both city driving and highway cruising. The rear-wheel-drive layout contributed to a somewhat traditional driving feel, which some drivers appreciated, while others found it less stable in slippery conditions compared to front-wheel-drive cars.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Izh 21261 1.8 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 was made of durable plastic. Optional extras included electric windows, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level for the 1.8-liter model generally fell in the mid-range of the 21261 lineup. It offered more comfort and convenience features than the base models but lacked the luxury appointments found on the higher-end trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Izh 21261 utilized a relatively simple chassis design. The front suspension consisted of MacPherson strut springs, while the rear suspension employed a coil spring setup. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as standard equipment, improving braking performance and safety. The steering system was a rack and pinion type, providing reasonably precise steering control. The tires were typically 175/65 R13, which were adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Izh 21261 1.8 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While it was praised for its practicality and affordability, it was often criticized for its outdated design, rough ride quality, and lack of refinement. Compared to the 1.5-liter versions, the 1.8 offered a noticeable improvement in performance, but it also consumed more fuel. The 1.8 was generally considered a better choice for drivers who frequently traveled on highways or needed to carry heavy loads. However, the 1.5-liter models remained popular among budget-conscious buyers. The 21261 faced stiff competition from foreign imports, such as the Lada Priora and various used cars from Western Europe and Japan.
Legacy
The Izh 21261, including the 1.8-liter variant, represents a significant chapter in the history of the Russian automotive industry. While it wasn’t a groundbreaking vehicle, it provided a much-needed affordable transportation option for many families. The ZMZ-4062.10 engine proved to be relatively reliable, and many examples are still on the road today. However, due to its age and limited availability of spare parts, maintaining a 21261 can be challenging. In the used car market, the 1.8-liter models are generally valued slightly higher than the 1.5-liter versions due to their superior performance. The Izh 21261 remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its unique character and historical significance.
