The history of VAZ itself begins in the second half of the twentieth century, when construction of the plant began, and then production.
The very first car was called VAZ-2101, also known as Zhiguli or “kopek” in popular parlance.
The last name was formed due to the last two digits in the number. The maximum speed was 140 km/h. It was assumed that the Zhiguli would become a car for ordinary citizens, accessible and inexpensive. However, with the development and expansion of production, new models became more expensive, as designers had some problems that they had to solve. Although this did not reduce the popularity of the brand, and the cars were in demand.
The plant gradually developed, for example, in the late 70s they produced a Zhiguli with a station wagon body, and then the all-wheel drive Niva models came out. Soon after this, cars began to be produced for sale abroad and at the same time the Zhiguli was renamed Lada. This was done due to the fact that the first name resembled the word “gigolo”, causing not very good associations. The name Lada is still actively used by the plant.
This brand experienced its own crisis in the 90s and early 2000s, but by 2009 a solution was found by attracting investment. The company entered into an agreement with Renault-Nissan and invited the famous designer Steve Mattin, who worked with the Mercedes and Volvo concerns. From that time on, revival and renewal began, and people again became interested in the products of the domestic plant.
The car models produced by VAZ are quite diverse. They are grouped into lines or families. Among them there is a small class with different body styles - station wagon, hatchback, sedan. You can find representatives of the small middle class, all-wheel drive Niva, front-wheel drive Kalina and Priora, even a Largus van, which is positioned as a business vehicle.
The characteristics of all these cars are different, but their owners often think about tuning. As a rule, VAZ tuning is aimed at either changing the external part of the car, giving it an unusual look, original coloring, or it concerns the practical side, for example, replacing the suspension to ensure a smoother ride on the rough roads of our homeland.
Why is VAZ tuning popular in Russia?
Now car owners in our country buy both foreign and domestic cars. But quite often they prefer to tune VAZ products. Why are these cars chosen for modification?
• First of all, their price matters. It’s no secret that cars are inexpensive, and if you don’t buy the newest model, and even second-hand, you can generally get by with a ridiculous amount. After such a purchase, there will also be left to carry out tuning of the VAZ.
• Machines of this brand are easy to disassemble. The design is clear and simple, and if necessary, you can find reference literature and diagrams in your native language.
• There are many accessories for tuning VAZs, so the owners have full scope for imagination. In addition, since the machines themselves are inexpensive, various spare parts for them are quite accessible.
Typically, VAZ tuning is done by young people who want to experiment in this direction, but do not have too much money. However, there are also fans of the brand who really love their car and want to transform it in accordance with their ideas. In any case, with the help of tuning a VAZ can be turned into a decent vehicle if you do everything correctly and don’t give up halfway.
VAZ engine tuning: increasing power and reliability
Various operations can be done on the engine to change the driving characteristics of the car. What is being done and why?
The power of the engine is directly related to its displacement, so during tuning this volume is often increased; this can add up to 15 hp to the engine. This tuning option works best with engines whose volume is above 1.3 liters. For 1.3-liter engines, the crankshaft is usually changed and the piston diameter is increased.
As for the power system, the fuel injection system is replaced with a carburetor and in reverse order. This largely depends on personal preference and the desired goal, because the injection system provides better mixture formation, less fuel is consumed, better combustion occurs, but at the same time electronic sensors and systems may begin to fail. So, if you plan to use thinner electronics, then it is better to go with a carburetor circuit. And if the goal is to squeeze out maximum power, then an injection system is better suited.
Important! For a slight increase in power, you can install an air filter with reduced resistance. The percentage of increase will be small, about 5 percent, but it is very easy to do. It can be installed either in a regular place or through an extension duct. For carburetor engines, the latter option is usually used.
The engine block head can be modified to remove obstacles to air flow where the openings of the cylinder block with the exhaust and intake manifolds do not fit tightly enough. In general, power increases by 10 percent of the original figures. During tuning, they achieve compatibility between the channels and the block head, or expand the channels by grinding their surface to reduce movement resistance. The second option is considered more labor-intensive.
If the car has an engine with direct fuel injection, then chip tuning can be done.
It involves electronic configuration of the control unit, which is responsible for the ignition and power system. The manufacturer sets certain indicators that do not allow the engine to operate at full power, but with the help of tuning you can change the engine output and increase it. After all the manipulations, the power can increase by 20 percent.
VAZ 2110 engine - only the main points
In this case, you can go in two ways: replace the engine altogether or reconstruct it, replacing worn parts with new ones, while increasing the engine volume as much as possible and installing a new camshaft.
Also, for better flow of the fuel mixture into the engine, you can replace the outdated fuel filter with a more modern one, for example, ProSport.
It would not hurt to replace the VAZ 2110 control unit with a newer January 5, but before that it is advisable to reprogram it for your car.
Tuning the VAZ interior: creating comfortable conditions
Making the interior more convenient and comfortable is a completely understandable desire. With the help of tuning this is possible. The directions may be different, some change the entire interior, while others are limited to minimal external changes.
First of all, I want to get rid of the noise. Domestic cars are notorious for making noise. This problem can be solved in different ways, but, in any case, you will have to disassemble the interior to eliminate the cause of the unpleasant sounds.
Standard sound insulation is not enough, so it will need to be supplemented to fill the voids - polyurethane foam will come in handy, and it won’t hurt to spray the front end with an anti-corrosion compound. Also, to combat noise and improve thermal insulation, interior trim is often replaced, door panels and ceilings are reupholstered. You must not forget to replace the mats with new ones.
Replacing the seats is necessary for comfort or simply to make the interior more representative. If you often have to make long trips, then anatomical sports seats made of foam are perfect. An easier option is to change the covers. A popular option is leather - it looks solid and gives the car an original look. Another frequently used material is Alcantar. It is distinguished by its strength and durability.
Music lovers will not be able to resist replacing the speaker system. Powerful speakers with good sound transmission will fill the car with great music and brighten up your travel time. Modern stores offer many options for car audio systems, so there will be no problems with choosing.
Also, during interior tuning, the steering wheel is changed. The original sports versions seem fashionable and modern to many. However, it is important to choose the right steering wheel to fit your car, as some models may not be compatible, which will result in poor handling. There are simpler ways - the steering wheel is decorated with braiding or covered with some kind of material. This does not require complex replacement, but allows you to change the appearance.
Important! Interior lighting using LED lamps makes the car very impressive. Usually, when tuning, not only standard light bulbs are replaced, but also additional ones are made, for example, the light comes on when the glove compartment is opened. In the dark it looks original, and besides, with lighting it is more convenient to find some thing.
Tuning VAZ headlights: modern optics
Installing new headlights is not that difficult, the main thing is to purchase all the necessary materials. You can choose not only beautiful lighting, but also better and more reliable lighting. One of the problems is fogging of the headlights, when the glass allows moisture to pass through, the contacts of the light bulbs oxidize and they become unusable. In this case, timely replacement will avoid troubles.
For rear and front headlights, you can use LED or xenon lamps. More often they choose the first option - these lighting devices are cheaper, but at the same time have a fairly long service life. In addition, they operate three times faster than xenon lighting.
If you don’t want to change the headlights, you can simply paint the rear ones inside. To do this, you need special paint designed specifically for such work. The usual one is not suitable, since the lanterns heat up during operation, and this will cause the paint layer to slide off. You will also need more primer and sealant to secure the headlights back on. Before starting painting, it is important to thoroughly wash the headlights and wipe them dry to avoid streaks. It is important to select such a shade and number of layers so that the light transmission remains sufficient and the lanterns can perform their functions.
In addition to paint, you can use a special film for tuning, it is also sold in stores, and you can stick it on both the outside and the inside. But if you make an outer layer, the material will quickly become unusable. The light transmittance of the film is higher than that of paint. Also, if necessary, the film can be removed without damaging the surface of the headlights if you want to get rid of the tint. You can't do that with paint. However, the cost of high-quality films is higher than that of a can of spray paint, in addition, they are more difficult to stick.
Another way to change your appearance is with eyelashes. These are special linings that give the car original features, but do not require significant costs and complex operations. They are usually cut out of plastic or a special film; you can choose any shape that you like best. The advantage of this option is its simplicity, and also that the “eyelashes” eliminate the gap between the hood and the headlight. However, at high speed you can accidentally lose them, so it is better to secure the pads properly.
Finishing up the exhaust system
For high-quality and durable isolation from vibration and engine vibrations, the VAZ 21099 body is mounted on elastic rubber-metal supports. However, all dynamic loads are transferred in full to the exhaust gas exhaust system, which is rigidly connected to the engine. Vibration effects on exhaust pipes are complemented by internal stresses associated with unpredictable alternations of heating and cooling, exhaust gas pressure, stone impacts and other factors.
To reduce the level of harmful parasitic vibrations, it is necessary to install a corrugated pipe in the exhaust system - a bellows-type metal compensator, which is sold in auto parts stores. Thanks to this, you will forget about the problems of a muffler knocking on the body, as well as sudden perforations of the exhaust tract in the most unexpected places.
This kind of tuning is not difficult to do with your own hands, only if you professionally know how to handle a semi-automatic welding machine. In addition, you need to be able to use a grinder to cut off part of the exhaust pipe, and weld a compensator bellows into the already prepared gap. For those who do not have an electric welding machine, the solution is to use a high-temperature sealant. A tube of cold welding plus a couple of clamps will also help.
Dashboard tuning: interesting solutions
The instrument panel is constantly in front of the driver's eyes while driving, so why not give it an original look? There are several options for this, which can be either quite simple or involve a radical replacement.
Installing LED lighting will transform the appearance of the panel. To do this, you will need an LED strip, which can be easily purchased at the store. To carry out tuning, you will need to remove the panel and work with a soldering iron. New lighting is not only a decoration; it can be much more convenient. Drivers often complain that the factory version is too dim or, conversely, blinds the eyes. In this case, changing the lighting is really necessary so as not to strain your eyesight. It is better to place the tapes along the entire length of the panel, and also use several short pieces rather than one long one. This reduces the likelihood of LEDs burning out quickly.
A simple way that does not require any special tools is to use film. You only need to disassemble the panel to the backlit base. And then the pieces of film are glued to the places with numbers and lines. The light from the bulbs will pass through the film and change its hue. There are no limits to your imagination here; you can find film of any color and even choose different tones for the numbers, arrows and divisions on the scale. This method is simple and safe; it does not require working with the electronic components of the car, so there is no need to fear any accidental damage.
Another option similar to film is special dashboard stickers. The required scale with divisions is already drawn on them; you don’t need to cut anything out, just stick a large sticker on it. Each car model has its own version, so when purchasing it is important not to mix it up, otherwise the sticker will not fit the panel.
Important! Do you want drastic changes? Then you can completely update the dashboard. Such a replacement costs more than all other options, but the new panel can be completely customized to the driver’s tastes - choose the backlight, arrangement of instruments and other parameters.
Even an old car can be given an unusual and modern look in this way by installing a panel with a computer display and high-quality equipment. Such an update will look very impressive, especially if it is carried out simultaneously with tuning the entire interior.
VAZ suspension tuning for comfortable trips
A good suspension will ensure a smooth ride for the car and safety on the road, since it is also responsible for the grip of the wheels on the surface. In addition, extreme driving enthusiasts can change the suspension to a sporty version. In any case, it is important to consider several points when replacing this part.
First of all, shock absorbers, they have the ability to dampen vibrations, but they can do this in different ways.
There are different options available, which can be divided into groups:
• With progressive characteristics - these can smooth out various small irregularities when driving, more suitable for quiet driving and family minivans or similar cars.
• Regressive characteristic implies the ability to dampen vibrations during heavy traffic, and also increases the overall stiffness of the suspension and the sharpness of the steering.
• The combined option is a combination of the two previous ones, something like a golden mean, which has all the necessary properties.
Finding good shock absorbers can be difficult because they have other characteristics that affect the ride. But the issue is resolved by selecting springs or their subsequent modification to give the desired properties.
The kinematic diagram also plays an important role - this is the location of all suspension units relative to each other when performing various actions: braking, acceleration, turning.
In general, usually no major operations are carried out on the kinematics, but small changes have a positive effect on the driving performance of the car:
• Reducing the ground clearance improves the overall handling of the car; replacing the springs with shorter and stiffer ones helps to optimally distribute the load on the wheels when driving.
• We also replace fragile oil seals with more rigid ones, and in some cases with steel ones.
• On front-wheel drive vehicles, rigid wishbones are installed to optimize the impact of lateral loads.
• Caster (caster angle) increases, which has a beneficial effect on the behavior of the front wheels when driving in a straight line.
Also, when tuning the suspension, attention is paid to angular stiffness - this is the ability to withstand angular vibrations, so that when turning sharply at speed, body roll does not occur. It is important to choose the right stabilizers so that they perform their function, but do not impair driving performance; you need to find the optimal balance between indicators.
Tuning VAZ chassis
VAZ 2114 suspension tuning
Auto tuning for a VAZ involves a significant change in the car’s suspension. This is how imported shock absorbers are installed on domestic cars (despite all the patriotism, the factory ones are no good). To reduce ground clearance, cut off half or a whole coil of springs. At the same time, to increase it, they install bafens (urethane gaskets), which not only increase ground clearance, but also make the ride smoother.
It’s impossible to count how many VAZ owners experiment with rims. The only limitation is that you should not get carried away with negative disc offset. If you go too far with this indicator, then there is a risk of going through the chassis once a month.
Owners of VAZ SUVs: Niva and Chevy Niva can afford to install off-road tires that are not their own - the car immediately takes on an “evil” look. At the same time, domestic crossovers can be “brought” to infinity. More on this below.
Body kit tuning: modern look and original design
One of the popular types of tuning is equipping the car with different body kits. Such manipulations are not too complicated, do not affect electronics, but give even an old car an unusual look, dynamic and sporty. It is due to this that body kits are so popular among those who want to make a spectacular impression. However, these parts are also capable of improving aerodynamic properties, so they cannot be called purely decorative.
Previously, body kits were made manually in workshops, but now you can easily purchase ready-made kits in stores for every taste. Moreover, some showrooms even use special design programs that will show how a particular body kit will look on a car. As for the additional capabilities of these elements, they will also not be superfluous.
• A car with body kits behaves more obediently at high speeds, which is why fans of fast driving love them so much.
• These parts direct air flow upward, causing the car to be pressed more tightly to the surface.
• If there is no body kit on the car, then at high speed it will tend to break away from the asphalt, it will begin to slide along the surface and skid. This can lead to unpleasant consequences, so the body kit also increases safety.
Usually when talking about body kits, they mean a set of several parts. Depending on the situation, this may include different elements.
Their number and composition depend on the manufacturer, as well as the model of the car itself:
• The set will definitely include a front bumper - this element is largely responsible for changing the aerodynamic qualities.
• The rear bumper is also installed and may have special splash protection.
• Thresholds give the car a complete look, making it more dynamic and impressive.
• Also sometimes included in kits are spoilers that complement the rear of the car.
• Door sills and arches serve both an aesthetic and protective function.
Important! You can find both the simplest sets and those with a large number of additional elements, so it all depends on what budget the car owner wants to fit into. The installation process itself is not too complicated, so very soon the driver will be able to drive the updated car.
Which VAZ models are tuned most often?
Almost all VAZ models can be modified. You can change something in any car, the question is what exactly is meant by tuning. Some people mean a complete transformation, while others are limited to minor changes to the dashboard or interior. However, some models most often act as objects for tuning.
The VAZ nine or “chisel” was and remains a popular model. It is often changed, starting with improving the appearance, and specifically, that same bumper of a characteristic shape, for which the popular nickname of this car was received. Interestingly, the engine and transmission of this model are in good condition, so owners often experiment with the appearance, without particularly affecting the power indicators.
The VAZ 2107 is popularly known as the “Russian Mercedes” - for the characteristic shape of the radiator grille and the appearance of the front end. Of course, in all its technical indicators this car is significantly inferior to modern models, because it is quite old. But it opens up real scope for tuning, which is why experimenters love it. You can transform this car in any way you like, making exterior trim and changing the characteristics of the engine. You can find many examples of spectacular transformations of the seven.
Lada Kalina suddenly became the leader in external tuning. Many people like to criticize this car, but, paradoxically, no fewer people decide to purchase this particular car because it has an affordable price. And then the owners think about how to make the car more original, and come up with the idea of tuning. Therefore, there suddenly turned out to be quite a lot of tuned Kalinas on the roads. In this case, it is quite expensive to modernize the technical part, so usually owners choose external changes, only slightly changing what is inside.
The VAZ 2106, a six, which has long been a real people's car, is often tuned. The reasons are simple - this car can be bought cheaply and spare parts for it are inexpensive. In addition, lately the fashion for retro has been returning, so the owners of such tuned cars drive around the streets even with some style. The VAZ tuning itself consists of replacing the technical part and carrying out external modifications to give it an original look.
Tuning is like an art form
Creating a new image for your favorite car is akin to art, as evidenced by the created photographs of improvement objects, for example, especially popular pictures of the VAZ 2109. Tuning this model of Russian car is a favorite task of domestic auto mechanics.
VAZ 2109 Stance
Indeed, in this case, you need to take into account a lot of aspects: the properties of the vehicle, its character, requirements, colors and patterns, lighting and the need for tinting, external and internal devices. The result needs to be extremely attractive and bright. That is, the “iron horse” in myriads of pictures and photos, as in life, is a work, a masterpiece, obtained through many hours of hard creative work.
Modernization, as a type of competition, has only recently existed, but many projects may well give a head start to the existing base of automakers' competitors, and the winnings in such competitions amount to decent amounts.
Project evaluation criteria:
- Expressiveness of styling (originality of the exterior, and how different it is from other designs. Photos of cars that have been tuned are considered, for example, a photo of a VAZ 2114).
- Taste of styling (what is its aesthetic perception, shape, color, beauty in the full sense of the word).
- Refinement of the interior (quality and exclusivity of work).
- Technical performance of the work (quality and reliability of elements, safety of the driver and passengers, as well as the transported cargo).
- How exclusive is the base car (rarity, time of existence and operation, purchase price of such a vehicle, which is taken as a basis).
A wonderful opportunity to see the future appearance of your pet is 3D modeling.
Next, you need to take a picture of an existing prototype as a basis and start redesigning it using modern computer methods, so you can create the most attractive car with a minimum expenditure of resources, having previously gone through a finite number of options, returning to the original ones as needed.
Laconic project
Which studios can do VAZ tuning?
1. Tuning Sport (tuningsport.ru) - the studio provides tuning services for the entire model range of the AvtoVAZ plant. Specialists provide tuning services for engines, car interior, exterior, etc.
2. Crazy Avto (crazy-avto.ru) - a tuning studio performs work on modernizing engines and interiors; specialists make original body kits for VAZ cars. There is an online store.
3. Elegante (auto-elegante.ru) - the Elegant auto studio performs tuning work on VAZs of any complexity. Among the features: covering the car with vinyl film, branding, chrome plating of car parts.
4. Custom Cars (customscars.ru) - the studio employs experienced auto mechanics, the service is located in Moscow. The company carries out interior engineering, airbrushing, chip tuning and all standard VAZ tuning work.
5. Technical Center 777 (lada.777tc.ru) - the studio performs all types of tuning, as well as routine repairs and maintenance of VAZ cars. All types of work are guaranteed; spare parts for tuning VAZ cars are always in stock.
Carrying out a complete tuning of a car is not the easiest task if such work includes changes in the technical part and external transformations. Not every car owner has such skills, so it is better to trust professionals who can help in this matter. Nowadays, VAZ tuning services are offered by various studios and showrooms that engage in both modification and repair. If you wish, you can go there.
It’s easiest for residents of big cities - there you won’t have any difficulties finding a suitable studio; you can often see advertisements even on the street. There are many similar organizations, so you can always choose the most suitable option. Usually, the studio clarifies in advance in their advertising what kind of cars they deal with - for example, only foreign cars or jeeps or everything in general, but if nothing is said about this, then the details can always be clarified by phone. And many have their own groups on social networks where you can get answers to questions.
Important! It is best to choose a trusted studio so that there are no misunderstandings later. It’s good if craftsmen with a positive reputation work there. If there is no information on this matter, then you can visit city motorist forums and ask for recommendations there.
Finding a suitable studio is more difficult for those who live in a small town or village. There may not be similar organizations there, so you will have to look in nearby cities if you really want to change the appearance of your car. However, some types of tuning can be done with your own hands if the car owner has the appropriate skills.
It is worth noting that in addition to contacting the studio, you can contact the dealer and order factory tuning. It includes changes to the car's equipment, new paint, upholstery, and engine improvements. Of course, in this case, the car will not turn into an original and unusual vehicle, but if such a goal is not worth it, but you just want to slightly change the appearance and improve the technical characteristics, then you can use this option. Another similar option is the pre-sale installation of all sorts of additional systems and improvements. This is not tuning in the direct sense, but such measures also help improve the car, and even after such intervention, warranty service does not end.
Types of car tuning
Due to the huge variety of work to improve cars, tuning is classified into three types:
- external;
- basic;
- technical.
Modernizing the appearance of a vehicle can be carried out in various ways, from cosmetic modifications to global measures that involve changing the geometry of the body.
In Russia, exterior tuning usually involves tinting glass and optics, airbrushing, installing alloy wheels and original body kits, as well as upgrading headlights in various ways.
Tuning VAZ 2110
Car modifications during basic tuning most often consist of significant changes in the components and assemblies of the car, namely, the power unit, transmission, suspension, braking system, etc.
For example, engine chip tuning makes it possible to reduce fuel consumption, increase torque and power of the internal combustion engine, and also improve the dynamic performance or traction characteristics of the vehicle.
Technical improvement is focused on transforming the interior of the car. The scope and purpose of such modifications depends entirely on the preferences and budget of the vehicle owner.
Leather upholstery
A timeless classic of technical tuning is the installation of sports seats and upholstery of the interior with genuine leather. Also, the list of car tuning elements can include the installation of all kinds of additional equipment, such as an alarm system, on-board computer, multimedia system, air conditioning system and other devices that increase comfort or safety.
In which stores can you buy parts for VAZ tuning?
1. Shop-Tuning - the company sells spare parts for VAZ tuning in a wide range. The prices are quite affordable, most of the products in the range are in stock, and you can order parts.
2. PSG TUNING is a specialized online store selling spare parts for VAZ tuning; the assortment also includes parts for tuning other brands of cars, as well as foreign cars.
3. TuningProsto (tuningprosto.ru) - online store for tuning VAZ and foreign cars. Large warehouse program, thanks to which tuning parts are always in stock. Competent managers will suggest the best option for spare parts for each specific case.
4. ClubTurbo is an online resource specializing in the sale of VAZ tuning products. The store regularly holds promotions and has special offers for regular customers.
5. TuningShop24 - a wide range of products for VAZ tuning. The prices are quite affordable, it is possible to order parts. The store is open 24 hours a day, and managers provide consulting support.
To carry out tuning you will need the corresponding parts. You can buy them in stores. Now all kinds of car modifications are gaining popularity, so it’s not difficult to find different spare parts, elements, and kits. Moreover, VAZ is a budget brand, so parts can be purchased inexpensively.
The car owner has two options - visit the store in person or order everything online. It is preferable to go to the store yourself, because on the spot you can make sure that all the spare parts are of high quality, have no defects and correspond to their description. On the other hand, there is not always time for such trips, and the necessary parts may not be available.
To avoid wasting time, many people prefer to use the services of online stores. Selling parts is a profitable business, which is why there are a lot of such sites now. It is important to choose a store carefully so as not to stumble upon a scammer. You should definitely talk to the seller, ask him what to do if the part turns out to be defective, whether there is a possibility of replacement or return, what guarantees are provided, how the delivery service works. If the seller does not respond or gets off with vague phrases, then it is better to look for another place to buy.
The most preferable option is a combination of the previous two. Such stores have a website where you can view the assortment and place an order, and then the parts are delivered to some department. There the customer will be able to make sure that he is not being deceived, that everything he needs has arrived and corresponds to the description. If something goes wrong, the goods simply won’t be paid for. Of course, you will need to go for the ordered parts, but this is not too much of a waste of time if you want to seriously start tuning your car.
Experts' opinions on VAZ tuning
Is it necessary to tune the car at all? What is the best way to do this, are there any limitations and what is worth knowing about this process? Experts will give some advice to those who want to get an original car or experiment with modifications.
Krivoshchekov Oleg Andreevich, mechanic:
“VAZ is well suited for tuning. The cars are affordable, and even a student can afford to buy an old six from some grandfather. This is an option for young people who want to stand out on the road, but don’t have much money in their pockets. Many people work with these cars, all the circuits have long been familiar, so even for technical tuning they won’t charge too much, unless the owner has decided to turn his car into a rocket with a jet engine.”
Smolentsev Petr, auto repair shop worker:
“In our showroom they do repairs and tuning; we have VAZ models quite often, even more often than various foreign cars. Some people are just interested in remodeling their car to make it original, but at the same time inexpensive, but there are also real fans of retro. Tuning a VAZ is not difficult, spare parts for them are available on almost any corner, it all depends only on your imagination. In our workshop they do external tuning - attach body kits, repaint the car, replace optics, and technical specifications can also be changed if the owner wants to increase power.”
Anisimov Nikolay Petrovich, owner of a tuning studio:
“Do I need to tune the VAZ? This is up to each owner to decide for himself, but why not improve the performance if possible? And the original look never hurt anyone; it’s much more interesting when all the cars on the roads are different. VAZ models are easy to work with, mechanics are familiar with them - almost everyone started with them, these are the first cars on which they learned to do repairs, changed something, experimented.”
Tuning by model
You need to start your review of the models with the classics (VAZ 2101, 2102, 2103, 2104, 2105, 2106, 2107).
So, VAZ classic tuning involves tuning the engine, installing or rebuilding the gearbox, manipulating the suspension (cutting the springs) and styling. Moreover, most often it is the owners of classics who do the styling. So they try to give the VAZs of the first model an old style. “Sixes” are similar to BMW.
Tuning VAZ 21099
Front-wheel drive cars - up to Priora (VAZ 2108, 2109, 21099, 2110, 2111, 2112, 2113, 2114, 2115). With tuning, they can get a turbocharged engine, a sports gearbox, a “finished” suspension and an updated appearance. The combination of these works is valid when preparing a car for drag or street racing. In most cases: replacing the cylinder head and styling is an almost complete list of activities included in the concept of “Vaz Lada tuning” for the owners of these cars.
We should also consider the Lada station wagon tuning. In most cases, this is a family car. Therefore, its owners are limited to new rims, strengthening the rear suspension (often “breaking through” the struts) and installing roof rack rails.
Owners of crossovers: Niva (VAZ 2121) and Niva Chevrolet can prepare their cars for off-road rides. To do this, you will have to buy and install longer-stroke shock absorbers, install spacers in the springs, and possibly trim the wings for wheels with a large radius. The only limitation will be the angle of inclination of the cardan shafts and the steering shaft.
More recent models - from Priora and higher (Lada Kalina, Lada Granta, Lada Priora, Lada Largus), mainly have light tuning of the vases: new optics, tinting, modernization of the interior. The engine and gearbox are not so subject to tuning - they were developed jointly with Renault and are more advanced.