VAZ-2123: description, specifications

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:41

A pilot batch of five thousand units of domestic VAZ-2123 cars was produced and sold out even before the start of production of the Russian-American Niva Chevrolet SUV. The external difference was expressed only in the new radiator lining, equipped with a branded trim with an emblem and bumpers made to match the body color, as well as the presence of a spare wheel cover (on the rear door). The modification was assembled at a separate enterprise located near the territory of AvtoVAZ. The updated model left the assembly line at the end of 2002, and mass production began in 2003. Consider the characteristics and features of this vehicle.

Description

Total production of Chevrolet Niva (VAZ-2123) cars by the end of 2004 amounted to about 75 thousand units, which indicated a rather high level of popularity. The approximate figure for the annual release was planned in the region of 55-60 thousand models. The new modification has an extended base by 25 centimeters compared to the previous VAZ-2123, five doors and an interior design typical for a full-fledged C category car with a folding rear seat.

Important parameters have also been upgradedtechnical plan, including handling, ergonomics and passive safety. All improvements are confirmed by crash tests and sea trials. Among the continuity of both cars, one can note similar drop-shaped light elements, short overhangs, significant ground clearance, which together guarantees good geometric cross-country ability.

Similarities of modifications

The main similarity between these machines lies in the standard transmission scheme with permanent all-wheel drive to all wheels, interaxle locking differential and demultiplier. The noise level of the new model VAZ-2123 cars has significantly decreased, which is due to the presence of a third support on the transfer mechanism and an increase in the distance from it to the main mechanical gearbox. Operated by an H-shift lever.

Interior fittings

The interior of the VAZ-2123 Niva Chevrolet has practically nothing in common with its predecessor. The interior equipment resembles a foreign car of the Golf class. The instrument panel has a rounded configuration, complemented by a console with ergonomic controls for ventilation modes and lighting. Previously, primitive skid-type controllers were used. A retractable ashtray and cup holder complete the nuances of the interior.

During the period of use, the plastic interior panels begin to creak, like many other "VAZ" models. The sports steering wheel with four spokes and the Chevrolet emblem looks original (the predecessor was equipped with a steeringmechanism from "ten".

Packages

The developers immediately began to produce the updated VAZ-2123 model in basic and improved trim levels. The first option is equipped with stamped rims, hydraulic power steering, adjustable steering column, electric window lifts. Also here you will find a radio socket, central locking and a dust filter in the ventilation system.

The luxury version of the car is additionally equipped with a velor interior, heated front seats, head restraints, an antenna, a pair of speakers, fog lights, alloy wheels and a spare wheel cover with a logo. In the spring of 2003, the optional package was expanded to include tinted windows and electrically heated mirrors.

Specifications VAZ-2123

The following are the main parameters of the car in question:

• Number of seats/doors – 5/5.
• Curb weight - 1.31 t.
• The maximum speed is 140 km/h.
• Acceleration from 0 to 100 km - 19 seconds.
• Luggage compartment capacity - 650 l.
• Clearance - 20 cm.
• Wheel base - 2.45 m.
• Front/rear track – 1, 43/1, 4 m.
• Dimensions VAZ-2123 - 3, 9/1, 7/1, 64 m (length/width/height).
• Turning radius (minimum) - 5.4 m.
• The power unit is a gasoline, longitudinally placed engine with distributed fuel injection.
• Displacement - 1690 cu. see
• Power indicator - 80 "horses".
• Cylinders - four row-arranged elements.
• Transmission assembly - mechanics for five ranges with all-wheel drive.
• Suspension - front independent transverse stabilizer, rear - dependent spring element.
• Brakes - front disc type, rear - drum.
• Fuel tank capacity - 58 l.
• Fuel consumption in mixed mode - 9.6 l / 100 km.

Features

VAZ-2123 cars in the new version are equipped with a spacious rear seat, which makes it possible to comfortably accommodate three adult passengers. At the same time, the back and pillow can be folded in a 3/2 ratio, which is very convenient for transporting bulky luggage. From prying eyes, the contents of the trunk are hidden with a removable shelf. The rear door is a pivoting type, equipped with a spare wheel and a heating system.

The front suspension is almost identical in design to the Niva, except for reinforced wishbones. The kinematics of the rear damping block has been noticeably improved. The steering of the worm-roller configuration has become more informative and easier, thanks to the hydraulic boost. In this regard, cars can be compared with imported counterparts.

In the basic configuration for the Chevrolet Niva, the power unit 2123 is supplied, which is an improved version of the 21214 modification. The engine is equipped with a hydraulic timing chain tensioner, valve lifters, a catalytic converter with a lambda probe. The engine compartment is covered with plasticspecial cover.

Modernization

Another improvement of the new version of the VAZ-2123 was carried out in the autumn of 2003. The designers changed the position of the generator, moving it to a dry area at the top of the engine block, the drive belt was replaced with a more reliable poly-V-ribbed version. Since 2004, the production of an experimental modification of the Chevrolet Niva began with an engine from Opel (1.8 liters), an Aisin transfer case, aggregated with an updated gearbox. This further reduced the noise of the vehicle. The standard package of this category includes the ABS system, belt tensioners, airbags. It should also be noted a good cross-country ability of the car, which is higher than that of most SUVs.

Frequent faults

The VAZ-2123 device (especially the 2002-2003 models) is far from ideal and suffers from some “childish” malfunctions. Among them:

• Deactivation or spontaneous revving of the engine (due to an incorrectly calibrated powertrain control system).
• There is an extraneous knock in the hydraulic lifters.
• Antifreeze flows from the thermostat.
• TPS sensor breaks often.
• The manifold fixing nuts are loosening.
• Throttle clamp fails.
• CV joint anthers wear out quickly.
• The transfer box warms up for a long time and hums in frosty weather.
• There is rustling and noise in the release bearing andanalogues of the input shaft of the box.
• The front axle gear bracket breaks.
• Gimbal joints show significant backlash.
• Leak of shock absorbers and power steering.
• Quick wear of regular tires.
• Weak brake hubs.
• Frequent failures of electrical equipment.
• Poor contact on stop lamps.
• Play in the part of adjoining the door to the body.
• Defective activators and locks.
• The voltage controller often burns out.
• Inconsistency of actual readings with odometer and fuel gauge.
• Distortions and scratches on glass.
• Deformation of lock rods.
• No jack mount under the hood.

In modifications after 2003, most of these shortcomings were eliminated.

Result

On the secondary market, you can easily find Niva Chevrolet cars. Experts and users are advised to choose models after 2003 release, since the first versions had a number of shortcomings. You should not “be led” by the cheapness of the car, since repairs and constant improvements will take a lot of money and time. Prototypes of the very first "semi-finished products" 2123 ("Chevrolet Niva") are practically not represented on the market, since they were mostly sold out in the vicinity of their native motor city.