- published: 14 Sep 2015
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Lada is a trademark of the Russian car manufacturer AvtoVAZ based in Tolyatti, Samara Oblast. It was originally the export brand for the models it sold under the Zhiguli name in the domestic Soviet market since June 1970. All AvtoVAZ vehicles are currently sold under the Lada brand.
Lada cars became extremely popular in Russia and Eastern Europe during the last two decades of the Soviet era, particularly in former Soviet bloc countries, where they have become a symbol of city life.
The Lada badge depicts a Viking sailing ship.
Lada made its name in Western Europe selling the Fiat 124-based VAZ-2101 and its many derivatives as an economy car in large quantities during the 1980s, but later models were less successful.
The common Lada sedan/estate, sometimes known as the Classic in the west (Signet in Canada), was partly based on the 1966 Fiat 124 sedan, and became a successful export car. The keys to its success were: competitive price as an export, reliability, simple DIY-friendly mechanics and unpretentious functionality. Since 1980 over 13.5 million Ladas were badged as 'Rivas' (re-styled), added to 5 million made from 1969 to 1979 (badged as 2101-2107 depending on engine size/interior specs) for a total of over 18.5 million. The car was built under licence in several other countries.