Lada Samara Hatchback 1100 E 3d (92) (1994/M) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
You get what you pay for, what more can you say?
Costs
Most parts are cheap (though the odd part costs a fortune); running costs very cheap.
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On the road
Driving
Poor - very very poor. Sloppy steering, dreadful brakes, difficult to start in the morning, but does 90mph though! No, HONESTLY!
Performance
Acceleration and hills are not good, but once it's up to speed it trundles along happily. Something other motorists seem blind to. 80 mph is still 80 mph even in a Lada, you don"t have to overtake!!!
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Living with it
Reliability
Better than the perception. Only two minor issues in 5 years, but it feels flimsy which doesn't instill confidence.
Image
What image? That said, I have grown quite fond of the old bugger... God knows why!
Comfort
What shape are Russians? You need very long legs, stumpy arms and enjoy lumbar puncture to feel comfy driving this car.
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Security and Service
Security
Has none - doesn't need it. Only a drunk, blind, certifiably insane masochist would steal it!
Service
Nil - they left the country four years ago. I e-mailed the Managing Director in Russia once - apparently all the complaints I listed were my own fault because the car is officially excellent…
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Got to be fair here - no bother, it's a reliable old workhorse but a bit noisy (sspect tappets).
Other
Difficult starting in the morning; amplifier and distributor replaced. Clutch went at 26k miles!
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No