1978 Lada 2103 1.5 review from Australia and New Zealand
"A compact, but roomy car that should easily go beyond 200,000 miles - not bad for 1.5 litres"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clutch and brake cylinders needed replacement, as did water pump (all after high mileages)
Original carburettor was missing some parts and was hard to start.
Replaced driver's seat after stitching came apart (also after high mileage).
Valve grind done at 150,000 miles, when the mechanic told me the engine was otherwise like new and had no wear at all!
General comments?
I have heard some negative comments on Ladas, but most of these are from owners of cars built in the few years after the collapse of the USSR when supplies and workmanship were erratic.
Likes the open road and long trips, and happily cruises effortlessly at 80+ mph.
Chrome work still like new after 25 years.
Very safe - passenger cell has double reinforcing in B and D posts. Door panels and roof also reinforced.
Performs and handles well, even with 4 or 5 passengers. Also tows a good sized trailer/load with very strong monoque body.
Totally reliable and easy to work on - a child could maintain it!
Original carburetor was very dodgy - tried repairing it, but ended up getting another one altogether. No further problems.
You never get tired or uncomfortable driving it on long trips.
Recommended reviews
| Possibly the most durable car ever made |
Road runner |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1978 |
| First year of ownership | 1987 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 27000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 186000 miles |
| Previous car | Skoda 1000 |
| Date of Entry | 5th December, 2003 |