Lada 672 - The Modern Russian Sedan of the 1990s and 2000s

Overview of the Lada 672

The Lada 672 is a compact sedan car that was manufactured by the Russian automaker AvtoVAZ between 1997 and 2007. The 672 model was part of Lada's VAZ-2170 model line and was designed to replace the older Lada 210x models. Some key facts about the Lada 672 include:

Design and Styling

The Lada 672 had a modern aerodynamic design for its time. It had a drag coefficient of 0.35 which helped improve fuel economy. The body style was a four-door sedan with a sloping rear end design. Overall dimensions were: Length: 4,245 mm Width: 1,640 mm Height: 1,415 mm The 672 featured revised oval shaped headlights and a redesigned grille compared to earlier Lada models. The interior was also updated with new fabrics and trim materials.

Engine and Performance

The Lada 672 came equipped with a 1.5L 8-valve OHC four-cylinder petrol engine, similar to other Lada models of the era. This engine produced 75 hp at 5,200 rpm and 93 ft-lb of torque at 3,600 rpm. The engine was mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy was estimated around 25-30 mpg depending on driving conditions.

Performance was modest but adequate for an economy compact car. The 672 could reach a top speed of around 100 mph and accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 15 seconds. The front-wheel drive setup provided decent traction and handling for normal driving.

Features and Amenities

As an economy car, the Lada 672 emphasized low cost and practicality over luxuries. However, the 672 did come with features like:

• Cloth upholstery
• Adjustable front seats
• Heating and ventilation system
• Cigarette lighter
• Two speaker radio cassette player
• Power windows on higher trim levels

Safety features were limited but included seatbelts, laminated windshield, side impact beams, and a driver's airbag on later models. Overall comfort and noise levels were basic compared to more upscale brands.

Lada 672 Model Variants

The Lada 672 was available in several different trim levels including:

• 672 - Base model
• 672E - Mid-level model
• 672i - Top of the line model

Higher models added more features like power steering, fog lights, wheel covers, and optional air conditioning. Several limited edition models were also produced such as the 672 Corona, 672 Serious, and 672 Crown.

History of the Lada 672

The origins of the Lada 672 trace back to 1994 when AvtoVAZ began developing a new model to replace the older Lada 210x series. Design of the VAZ-2170 model line began in collaboration with Porsche. The new model was intended to be more modern, comfortable, and exportable than previous Ladas.

The 672 made its public debut in 1996 and entered full production in 1997. It was sold in Russia, other CIS countries, as well as select export markets like Egypt, Uruguay, and Peru. Within Russia, the 672 was popular as an inexpensive option for families needing basic transportation.

During its lifespan, the 672 received several upgrades including a more powerful 1.7L engine option in 2000 and a facelifted front end in 2003. Production ended in 2007 after over 670,000 units had been built. The Lada 672 was succeeded by the Lada Priora model in 2007.

Reception and Reviews

Reviews of the Lada 672 were generally positive considering its affordability and modern styling compared to earlier Ladas. Many considered it a good value purchase for basic city car needs. However, it lagged behind foreign competitors in areas like interior quality, noise insulation, ride comfort, and safety.

Positive aspects frequently mentioned include:

• Attractive modern styling
• Good fuel economy
• Easy maintenance and operation
• Adequate performance and handling
• Spacious interior space
• Low pricing

Downsides noted by testers often included:

• Noisy engine and cabin
• Cheap feeling interior materials
• Limited equipment and comfort features
• Basic safety options and crash protection
• Ride quality issues over bumps and rough pavement

Overall, the Lada 672 received positive marks as an inexpensive, practical car for basic transportation. While it lagged behind foreign models, it represented a big improvement over older Ladas.

Legacy of the Lada 672

The Lada 672 played an important role in the evolution of AvtoVAZ's passenger car lineup in the 1990s and 2000s. It marked a shift towards more modern and exportable designs that could compete with foreign brands. While still lagging in some areas, the 672 demonstrated Lada was making progress after the end of the Soviet Union.

Within the Russian automotive industry, the 672 helped maintain Lada's strong market position as the top selling car brand. It provided an affordable option for Russian consumers needing a basic new car. The sales success of the 672 ensured Lada remained highly relevant despite influxes of foreign marques after the collapse of the USSR.

For AvtoVAZ, the 672 represented an important learning opportunity to improve quality control, manufacturing, and integration of foreign technologies. Lessons from creating the 672 fed into Lada's next generation models like the Priora and Granta. The 672 was an influential model even if it wasn't a standout by worldwide standards.

Today, the Lada 672 remains a common sight on Russian roads even as newer models become more prevalent. For many Russian motorists, the 672 was their first experience with a modern, aerodynamic, designed-for-export Lada. It retains a reputation as a solid, working-class car associated with Russia's transition to a market economy in the 1990s and 2000s.

Buying Guide

For prospective buyers looking for a Lada 672 today, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Where to Find

The 672 is easiest to find in Russia and other nearby Eastern European countries. Online classified sites are the most likely source, as well as used car dealerships. Few if any examples will be found farther abroad as Ladas had limited export reach.

What to Look For

Things to inspect closely include:

• Rust on the underbody, wheel wells, and lower doors
• engine oil leaks
• Smooth shifting manual transmission
• Even tire wear
• Proper functioning of lights and electronics
• Cracks or fading on interior plastic and upholstery

Routine maintenance records from the previous owner are a plus. Watch for crash damage as lower quality Russian repair shops may mask problems.

Model Choices

Opt for more recent model years after 2000 to get the upgraded 1.7L engine. The top of the line 672i offers the most features but any trim level can be a good buy at the right price.

Parts and Maintenance

The good news is Lada parts remain very affordable in Russia and surrounding regions. However, finding parts outside Eastern Europe may be tricky. Maintenance is easy for DIYers given the 672's simple mechanics and widespread local knowledge.

Pricing

In Russia's used car market, the 672 typically sells for $500-2000 USD depending on age, mileage, and condition. Very old or damaged examples can sell for even less. This represents great value for a usable car, but inspection is critical before purchase.

Conclusion

The Lada 672 represents an important chapter in Russia's automotive history in the 1990s and 2000s. While no performance standout, it did bring modernized engineering and exportable design to AvtoVAZ's lineup for an affordable price. For many Russian motorists, the dependable 672 was their first taste of a globally competitive Lada. With careful inspection and realistic expectations, the 672 can still make a great budget used car purchase today.

FAQs

What engine options were available on the Lada 672?

The Lada 672 used a 1.5L 8-valve four-cylinder petrol engine producing 75 hp from 1997-2000. In 2000, a larger 1.7L 16-valve engine producing 84 hp became available. Both engines were paired to 5-speed manual transmissions.

How well did the Lada 672 sell?

The Lada 672 was quite popular, especially in the Russian domestic market. Over 670,000 units were manufactured from 1997-2007. During much of the 1990s and 2000s it was Russia's top selling car model.

What safety features did the Lada 672 have?

Safety equipment was quite limited on the base models. It included seatbelts, a laminated windshield, and side impact door beams. Higher trim levels added a driver's airbag starting around 2000. ABS brakes were not available.

How comfortable was the Lada 672?

Comfort was basic, with critics often complaining about high noise levels and cheap feeling cabin materials. But the 672 fared reasonably well for a budget compact car, with adequate space and seating for four adults.

Is the Lada 672 a good used car purchase today?

For the right buyer and price, the 672 can make a great cheap beater car. Parts and maintenance are easily affordable. But western buyers may struggle finding parts. Careful inspection is recommended to check for issues like crashes or rust.