VAZ-2106 Zhiguli USSR Auto Legends

The VAZ-2106 saloon could have been designated 21031, since it was an updated VAZ-2103. Instead, it received a separate number so the factory could report a “new” car to the Politburo. The first rolled off the line on 21 February 1976, with export sales gathering pace in 1977.

It was assembled at the Volga Automobile Plant until December 2001. Over 26 years, 4,175,000 cars were built.

The update affected secondary design elements and the engine. Much of the chrome disappeared, and the rear lights were completely redesigned: a plastic housing combined indicators, brake lights, reversing light, tail lights and number-plate lighting. The interior remained almost unchanged apart from a few decorative additions. Engine displacement and power increased slightly. The 1,568 cc inline-four carburettor engine produced 78 hp at 5,400 rpm, giving 154 km/h and a 0–100 km/h time of 16 seconds.