A Penza ZAZ-965 Built on a VAZ-2108 Drivetrain Seeks 5 Million Rubles
In Penza, a ZAZ-965, the iconic Zaporozhets, has been rebuilt using the running gear from a VAZ-2108 and is listed for 5 million rubles. The advertisement appeared on Avto.ru, a popular classifieds platform for cars in the region.
According to the seller, the project took five years to complete. The steering, chassis, and powertrain are sourced from the VAZ-2108 donor, creating a blend of vintage design with more modern running gear. The build emphasizes a balance between nostalgia and reliability, and it features a specially tuned exhaust system that adds a distinctive note on the road. The dashboard houses a cluster of chrome-framed dials, and the interior details echo a careful hand with materials and finishes that mark the car as a unique collectible. The fuel system relies on a 30-liter tank, while the handmade silencer is crafted from stainless steel. The seats and other interior components are wrapped in blue and light beige leather for a refined touch.
The owner states that the vehicle has been registered and that all changes were legalized, with the modifications documented in the vehicle passport and official paperwork, and a permit for use on public roads issued. This implies a formal acknowledgment of the build and its compliance with road regulations.
The builder documented every stage of the construction in a YouTube video series and kept a logbook with more than 200 posts outlining the production process and decisions along the way. These records provide a detailed view of the craftsmanship involved and the challenges faced during the conversion.
Earlier reports noted the existence of three rare Ladas for sale in Saint Petersburg, underscoring ongoing interest in collectible Russian cars and the appeal of limited-production models within the country. These stories highlight a market where enthusiasts seek out unusual examples that blend historical significance with modern engineering. Such projects attract attention from collectors and hobbyists alike, both in Russia and among international audiences who follow automotive craftsmanship on social platforms and specialist channels.
For North American collectors and enthusiasts, vehicles like this ZAZ-965 represent a niche category that combines classic styling with contemporary reliability. While imports and compliance vary by country, the appeal lies in the story of transformation and the skill required to integrate a vintage chassis with newer subsystems. The Penza build stands as a testament to how old design can be refreshed through careful engineering, thoughtful finishing, and meticulous documentation, turning a well-known Soviet-era icon into a modern conversation piece for show floors, private collections, and automotive museums abroad.