This year VAZ-2103 exists 50 years! Production of the third Zhiguli model began in September 1972.
“Troika” has always occupied a special place in the range of classic VAZs. And is still considered the most elegant model. In addition, in our hands is not a simple VAZ-2103, but a rare modification “B”.
What “BEE» ?
About 1500 cars were assembled in the first year. However, there were still not enough components for the entire batch. Therefore, some cars were equipped with an interior of the VAZ-2101. The only difference is the “loaf” liner at the top of the doors. The “one” has bare metal in this spot.
Outside, the car of such “troikas” was also different. The taillights are upside down – the turn signal part is on the top, not the bottom. These are the VAZ-2103 and received an additional letter “B” in the index, which means “temporary”.
Now less than two dozen complete cars have been preserved. And even less fully restored. Therefore, for a unique specimen after a competent restoration, they are now asking for at least two million rubles.
The VAZ-2103V is easily distinguished by inverted taillights.
Why is she the most elegant?
In the classification of the Volga plant, the future VAZ-2103 was listed as “Car No. 2”.
Initially, the Italians wanted to give us the FIAT-125 as a luxury model. But it was not profitable to master a new platform with a rear leaf spring suspension. Therefore, we decided to include only some stylistic decisions of the 125th Fiat in the already mastered body of the first model.
The result was an incredibly stylish and harmonious look with an abundance of chrome decor. In addition, the Italians themselves admitted (albeit behind the scenes) that our “troika” turned out to be more interesting and beautiful than their “four-eyed” FIAT-124 Speciale, which was developed in parallel.
The price of novelty
When the “troika” went on sale, the recommended price was 7,500 rubles – one and a half times more expensive than the “one”.
The overpaid was not only for a stylish look, but also for a richly trimmed interior. Woodgrain inserts graced the plush front panel, there was no bare metal, expensive carpet was laid on the floor, and the seats were upholstered in faux leather and real velour. Don’t forget chrome.
The rear seat had a folding armrest. Although it could be seen on the 24th Volga. But one device “troika” still tried on the first of the domestic passenger models. It’s a tachometer!
VAZ-2103 also received a new 1.5-liter engine. As a result, the “troika” not only looked richer, but also drove faster. And an advanced interior, insulation on the inside of the hood and lower revs at the same rpm made the VAZ-2103 much quieter.
Lifetime Suite
Today, the VAZ-2103 remains one of the most expensive models among the classic VAZs. Not only because of the fact that after the “deuce” it is the rarest of the Zhiguli. She managed to maintain the status of a luxury model. Unlike the “six”, which lingered on the assembly line for too long, turning from a luxury car into a cheap consumer goods.
- A 1976 Zhiguli ride is described here.
- “Driving” can also be read on Viber.
On the test “Behind the wheel” – a unique car. One of the earliest VAZ-2103 with body number 330.
