1994-1999 Moskvich 21412-136 1.7 (85 Hp)

The Moskvich 21412-136 1.7 (85 Hp) is a compact hatchback produced by the Soviet/Russian automaker AZLK (Avtozavod imeni Lenina, later Moskvich) between 1994 and 1999. Representing a significant, though ultimately unsuccessful, attempt to modernize the Moskvich range, the 2141 series was intended to replace the aging Moskvich-412. While primarily marketed within the former Soviet Union and Eastern European countries, the 21412-136 represents a fascinating example of automotive engineering during a period of significant political and economic transition. It aimed to offer a more contemporary design and improved features compared to its predecessors, but faced challenges in competing with increasingly available Western European and Japanese imports.

Moskvich 21412-136: A Legacy of Soviet Automotive Engineering

The 2141 series, and specifically the 21412-136 variant, was a crucial model for Moskvich. The original 2141 debuted in the late 1980s, but production delays and economic instability meant it didn’t reach significant sales volumes until the 1990s. The 21412-136 designation indicates a specific trim level and engine configuration. The “12” typically denoted a more refined interior and features, while the “136” signified the 1.7-liter engine. The car was designed to appeal to a growing demand for more practical and modern vehicles, offering five seats and a hatchback body style – a relatively new concept for the Moskvich brand at the time. However, build quality and reliability often lagged behind Western competitors, hindering its broader market success.

Engine & Performance

The Moskvich 21412-136 is powered by a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 85 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 129 Nm (95.15 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. While these figures were modest even by 1990s standards, they represented an improvement over earlier Moskvich engines. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle and utilizes a carburetor fuel injection system – a technology becoming increasingly outdated during the car’s production run. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance is best described as adequate; acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 17 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 160 km/h (99.42 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 12.6 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 8.3 kg/Nm reflect the car’s relatively heavy construction and modest engine output.

Design & Features

The Moskvich 21412-136 features a five-door hatchback body style, offering a relatively spacious interior for its size. The design, while influenced by contemporary Western European hatchbacks, retains a distinctly Soviet aesthetic. The interior is functional but basic, with durable materials intended to withstand harsh conditions. Features were limited compared to Western counterparts, but the 21412-136 typically included features such as front disc brakes and, on some models, an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) – a notable addition for a vehicle of its class and origin. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 370 liters (13.07 cu. ft.), providing reasonable cargo space for everyday use. The car’s suspension utilizes coil springs on both the front and rear axles, providing a relatively comfortable ride, although handling is not particularly sharp. The steering system employs a rack and pinion setup.

Technical Specifications

The Moskvich 21412-136 ultimately failed to achieve widespread success, and production ceased in 1999. The factory faced financial difficulties and struggled to compete with more modern vehicles. However, the 2141 series remains a significant part of Russian automotive history, representing a final attempt to revitalize a once-prominent brand during a period of profound change. Today, it is a collectible vehicle for enthusiasts interested in Soviet-era automobiles.