The Lada 2115-91 1.3 Wankel, produced between 2001 and 2012, represents a unique and relatively rare variant within the broader Lada 2115 family. This model, a sedan body style, distinguished itself from other 2115 trims through the incorporation of a rotary (Wankel) engine, a significant departure from the typically inline-four configurations found in Lada vehicles. The 2115 series itself was a continuation of the popular Lada 2105, offering updated styling and some mechanical improvements while retaining the fundamental rear-wheel-drive layout. The -91 designation typically indicated specific trim and equipment levels within the 2115 range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | 2115 |
| Generation | 2115-91 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 Wankel (135 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 103.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 176 Nm @ 4000 rpm (129.81 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1308 cm3 (79.82 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Rotary (Wankel) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1425 kg (3141.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Length | 4330 mm (170.47 in.) |
| Width | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Height | 1402 mm (55.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2460 mm (96.85 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 | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/70 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The defining feature of the 2115-91 was its 1.3-liter Wankel rotary engine. Unlike traditional piston engines, the Wankel utilizes a triangular rotor spinning within a specially shaped housing to generate power. This engine, while relatively small in displacement, produced 135 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 176 Nm (129.81 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine employed a carburettor fuel injection system, a somewhat outdated technology even during its production run, contributing to its relatively high fuel consumption. The longitudinal engine placement was unusual for a front-wheel-drive vehicle, and likely dictated by the packaging requirements of the Wankel engine and drivetrain. The engine’s compression ratio was 9.4:1. The 2115-91 was exclusively offered with a 5-speed manual transmission, chosen to handle the unique power delivery characteristics of the rotary engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 Wankel engine provided a distinctly different driving experience compared to the more common Lada engines of the time. Rotary engines are known for their smooth power delivery and high-revving nature. The 2115-91 could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in approximately 9 seconds, and reach a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). While not exceptionally fast by modern standards, this performance was respectable for a vehicle of its class and price point. The manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. However, the carbureted fuel system and the inherent characteristics of the Wankel engine resulted in higher fuel consumption compared to more modern, fuel-injected engines. The power delivery was linear, but the engine lacked the low-end torque of larger displacement piston engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2115-91 typically featured a fairly basic level of equipment, consistent with Lada’s reputation for affordability. Standard features included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. The -91 designation often indicated a slightly higher trim level than the base 2115, potentially including features like upgraded interior trim or a more comprehensive instrument cluster. Optional extras were limited, but could include a radio, upgraded speakers, and occasionally, power steering. The focus was on providing a functional and reliable vehicle at a low cost.
Chassis & Braking
The Lada 2115-91 utilized a relatively simple chassis design. The front suspension consisted of a spring strut setup, while the rear employed a coil spring arrangement. Braking was provided by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature. The vehicle’s curb weight of 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs) contributed to its relatively nimble handling. The track widths (1400mm front, 1370mm rear) were typical for vehicles in its class.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada 2115-91 1.3 Wankel was a niche model, even within the Lada lineup. While the rotary engine offered a unique selling point, its higher fuel consumption and potentially more complex maintenance requirements limited its appeal to a broader audience. Compared to other 2115 variants, such as those equipped with traditional inline-four engines, the Wankel version was often seen as a more enthusiast-oriented choice. Critics acknowledged the engine’s smooth power delivery but also pointed out its drawbacks in terms of fuel economy and long-term reliability. The manual transmission was generally well-received, providing a more engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The Lada 2115-91 1.3 Wankel remains a relatively uncommon vehicle today. The Wankel engine, while offering a unique driving experience, requires specialized knowledge for maintenance and repair, which can make finding qualified mechanics challenging. Reliability can be a concern, as Wankel engines are known to be more prone to wear and tear than traditional piston engines. However, for enthusiasts and collectors, the 2115-91 represents a fascinating and unusual piece of automotive history – a rare example of a rotary-powered Lada. In the used car market, well-maintained examples can command a premium due to their rarity and unique appeal. The long-term viability of these vehicles depends heavily on the availability of parts and the dedication of owners to preserving this unique piece of automotive engineering.
