The Lada 21122 1.5i, producing 78 horsepower, was a variant of the Lada 2112 series produced between 1999 and 2003. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the 2112 range, it aimed to provide affordable transportation for the Russian domestic market and export markets in Eastern Europe and beyond. The 2112 series represented a significant step forward for AvtoVAZ, Lada’s manufacturer, moving away from the heavily outdated designs of the previous generation (the 2105-2107 series) and adopting a more modern platform – a heavily modified version of the Fiat Tipo’s architecture, known internally as the 2110 series. The 2112 specifically denoted the hatchback body style, distinguishing it from the sedan (2110) and estate (2111) versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | 2112 |
| Generation | 21122 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 i (78 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 78 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 52 Hp/l |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 3000 rpm (84.82 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1500 cm3 (91.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1020 kg (2248.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Length | 4170 mm (164.17 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2492 mm (98.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1370 mm (53.94 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 21122 1.5i was powered by the Lada 2111 engine, an inline four-cylinder, naturally aspirated gasoline engine with a displacement of 1.5 liters (1492 cc). This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, a significant improvement over the carburetors found in earlier Lada models. The engine code for this variant is often referenced as a derivative of the earlier 2111 series. While not a particularly powerful engine, it was designed for reliability and fuel efficiency. The 78 horsepower peak was achieved at 5400 rpm, with a torque output of 115 Nm (84.82 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm. The engine was transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, optimized for the engine’s torque curve. An optional, but less common, four-speed automatic transmission was available, though it significantly impacted performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter engine in the 21122, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 14 seconds. The car’s top speed was around 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The gear ratios were relatively tall, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration. The automatic transmission version suffered from noticeable performance degradation, with slower acceleration and a tendency to hunt for gears. The suspension, while simple, provided a reasonably comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. Handling was adequate for everyday driving, but the car wasn’t designed for spirited cornering. Steering was light and relatively vague, typical of vehicles in this class.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 21122 1.5i was generally offered in a basic trim level, reflecting its position as the entry point to the 2112 range. Standard equipment typically included power steering, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included electric front windows, a more advanced audio system, and alloy wheels. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, depending on the market. The interior plastics were durable but lacked the refinement of Western European or Japanese competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The Lada 21122 utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a coil spring suspension at the rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety. The car’s weight of around 1020 kg (2248.72 lbs) contributed to its relatively modest performance. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing ride quality over precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada 21122 1.5i was primarily targeted at budget-conscious buyers in Russia and Eastern Europe. Critics generally acknowledged its affordability and practicality, but noted its lack of refinement and relatively low performance. Compared to other trims in the 2112 lineup, such as the 1.6-liter and 1.8-liter versions, the 1.5i offered lower running costs but significantly less power. The 1.6-liter version, for example, provided a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall drivability. Fuel economy was a strong point for the 1.5i, with combined fuel consumption around 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg). Reliability was generally good, although the car’s build quality wasn’t on par with Western European or Japanese rivals.
Legacy
The Lada 21122 1.5i remains a common sight on the roads of Russia and Eastern Europe. The 2111 engine, while not known for its sophistication, proved to be relatively durable and easy to maintain. Parts availability remains good, making it an affordable option for those seeking basic transportation. In the used car market, the 21122 1.5i is valued for its low purchase price and simple mechanics. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s age and potential for corrosion, particularly in regions with harsh winters. The 2112 series, including the 1.5i variant, represents a pivotal moment in Lada’s history, marking a transition towards more modern automotive technology, even if it still lagged behind Western standards.
