Compare VAZ 2111 and Kalina station wagon

VAZ 2112

The tenth family, cars from the Volzhsky plant, burst onto the domestic market in the late 90s, immediately appealing to Russian consumers. The tenth family, as conceived by the management of the Tolyatti plant, replaced the “chisels”. The design of the tens differed favorably from 2108, -09 -099. The appearance was more modern, the body was streamlined and sleek. It looked modern for the 90s.

It stood out for its elegance and sporty appearance among the 10th family. The pinnacle of design thought was the 21123 coupe, with a thoroughbred, sporty character.

Lada Kalina

Kalina, the first generation, began production in 2004, was newer than the twelfth, produced since 1998.

There were rumors that the design was developed by Italian specialists. It is unlikely that it will be known for sure whether it was effective managers who simply acquired funds in this way. But one thing is certain: the person who developed the design hated the Togliatti plant and its products very much. The Volzhsky Automobile Plant, neither before nor after, has never produced an uglier car.

It was rumored that the name was invented by warlocks who encrypted in it the name of the goddess Kali, known for her bloodthirsty disposition. Whether this is true or not is not known for sure, but there have been numerous cases where a small impact from a car resulted in a deployed airbag breaking the driver’s cervical vertebrae. According to engineers, this problem has been solved, but hardly anyone wants to test it for themselves.

Which is better Lada Granta or Lada Kalina: comparing cars

Those who want to buy a domestic car mainly choose among Lada Kalina and Lada Granta. If you take a quick look at these cars, the differences between them are not noticeable, since the cars are made on the same platform. But in fact, there are quite a few small differences between the cars. To finally make a choice, you need to know them.

Lada Kalina vs Lada Granta

So is there a difference between Kalina and Granta? Undoubtedly. This difference can be explained by the fact that AvtoVAZ engineers, when designing the Lada Granta, had the goal of introducing the best from Kalina into the new product, eliminating all the shortcomings, and making it cheaper. And so it happened, the basic Lada Granta car came off the assembly line with a price 50,000 rubles cheaper than its “colleague” Kalina.

The platform on which the new product is assembled has also been slightly improved. In the body frame, rigidity has been increased by as much as 12 percent.

The updated steering rack, which is equipped for the entire model range (except for the basic version), makes 3.1 turns to the stop, while in Kalina this parameter is 4.02 turns.

Granta's handling has been improved. To achieve this, it was decided to install more powerful anti-roll bars. The inclination of the front suspension strut is the same as that of the motorcycle fork - 2°25', the toe-in camber of the rear wheels is 1° (similar to the characteristics of the Mazda 3), positive toe-in is 10 minutes.

The Granta's headlight unit is made simpler than that of its partner. The new product uses H4 type lamps, when the Lada Kalina has more expensive H7 ones.

In addition, in the new product the radiator grille and bumper are made as a single element, while in the Kalina model they are two separate elements, which adds to the cost of assembling the vehicle.

At the same time, the new product contains a number of other structural changes, as a result of which the number of front end elements has been reduced.

The paintwork of the Lada Granta car is produced using modern equipment from Germany PPG Helios. The AvtoVAZ concern purchased it specifically for painting a new car. With the help of this equipment, the paintwork on a car protects it from corrosion with the ability to retain its original color for a long time.

As for the Lada Kalina, its main drawback is considered to be excessive noise from the power unit. As Granta users say, in the new car, even at high speeds, you can communicate in a low voice.

The technical side of the coin

It is difficult to understand why Kalina did not survive on the market. In terms of their characteristics, they are practically twins with the Granta - a 1.6-liter engine from 87 to 106 horsepower, the presence of a mechanical, automatic transmission and even a robotic version.

In both cases, the version with a 98-horsepower engine was exclusively automatic, and the robotic assistant was available only in the top trim level. But still there is one difference.

Kalina was offered in an 82-horsepower version with a manual transmission.

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With an equal wheelbase and almost equivalent weight, the dimensions also spoke in favor of Kalina. The Granta was 50 centimeters longer, which played a role when choosing a car in congested areas. There were 8 Grants for 10 Kalinas in the same segment.

But where the berry car definitely loses is in trunk volume. This was especially critical for a station wagon or hatchback, which are traditionally used for country and family trips. 520 liters is much better than 355 or 235. Do you agree? Then fuel consumption and ground clearance are also in favor of the first participant.

And don’t forget to remember the fast acceleration to hundreds of kilometers per hour – 11 seconds versus 12.2.

What to choose

"Kalina 2" is a more modern and comfortable car, which is confirmed by the comparative characteristics of the models. The total number of points for the second generation “Kalina 2”, although not much, is higher than that of the “Granta”.

Spacious interior is one of the undeniable advantages of Granta

Thanks to the increased base, even a large person can easily fit behind the wheel of the car, and passengers will not have to be crowded into a narrow space. Driving in a car is also more comfortable because the plastic in the cabin does not creak or rumble, and sounds from outside are muffled by high-quality sound insulation.

If we compare which is better than the Granta liftback Priora and Kalina, then the Granta is much ahead in terms of silence in the cabin of its fellows. Otherwise, the liftback's interior is not much different from the Kalina and even has some absolutely identical elements.

As for the trunk, the Granta exceeds all expectations here. Volume is 440 liters, compared to 355 liters. Kalina allows you to transport a large number of things, so a comparison of the Granta liftback and the Kalina station wagon will definitely be in favor of the Granta.

Specifications

They are similar for Granta and Kalina. The cars are equipped with almost identical engines. The car can be equipped with a 1.6-liter engine with a power of 87, 98 and 102 hp. Eight-valve, 1.6 liter capacity and 81 hp. installed only on Lada Granta.

Exterior view of engine 21116 on Grant

All power units on these cars can be paired with a five-speed manual transmission and an automatic Japanese gearbox. The chassis of the cars is also similar.

The only difference is in the settings, depending on the features of a particular model.

Body

about how both of these cars are painted at the factory:

We need to start comparing these two cars with the body. Today Kalina is offered with station wagon and hatchback body types.

Appearance of Lada Granta

The Granta is available only with a sedan body type. Some car enthusiasts prefer to buy sedans for their classic look and convenience, while some prefer hatchbacks for their efficiency and compactness.

Kalina station wagon

Station wagons are chosen by those who value a large amount of usable space in the cabin.

We are bringing potatoes from the dacha (photo by comrade Grantovod especially for the site)

It is worth noting that those who expect a spacious trunk from Kalina will be a little disappointed. Its volume is 360 liters versus 400 in Grant. The hatchback has even less luggage compartment – ​​260 liters.

Equipment

The difference between Kalina and Granta becomes noticeable if you look at the car’s equipment. In Kalina the basic version is already installed:

1. Electric power steering.
2. Short steering rack.
3. 14 inch wheels.
4. Air filter in the cabin.
5. Electric window lifts at the front.
6. Athermal glass.

It should also be noted that the Granta in the most expensive configuration is equipped better than the Kalina, and the cost of the cars is almost the same. So the Granta can be equipped with:

1. Electrically driven rear view mirrors.
2. Fog lights.
3. Heated rear view mirrors.
4. Electric window lifts on all doors.

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Comparative characteristics

From the above we can draw the following conclusion:

• Granta is cheaper than Kalina;
• Grant has a modern platform, better handling;
• to the detriment of safety and quality, Grant simplified the headlight unit and other body parts, but this lowered the price of the car;
• Grant has a higher quality paintwork. Less susceptible to corrosion, retains natural color longer.
• Compared to Kalina, Grant has better sound insulation, which allows you to talk in the car even at high speed.

It would be worth considering some parameters in more detail and comparing them.

1. Appearance of cars. Upon a superficial examination of the new product, it may seem that the Granta is not like other Russian cars. Upon closer inspection, it is noticeable that the side doors are the same as those of the Lada Kalina. And the sedan bodies of both models are generally not much different. The Granta can only be recognized by its large size and a different shape of the bumper and headlights.
2. Luggage compartment. When it comes to trunk space, the Lada Kalina remains on the bench. Due to the fact that Granta's body is longer than that of Kalina, its trunk is much larger. It’s just that the appearance of the trunk is “lame”, and it doesn’t close the first time. But the size of the trunk is louder than its shortcomings, and this is good news.
3. Salon overview. Kalina users often received complaints about the unbearable creaking of the panels, a large number of gaps and backlashes. In the new Lada Granta, these shortcomings have been corrected, and the interior makes almost no unnecessary unpleasant sounds. But regarding the plastic in the car, there is a question: is it cheap? Despite this, the interior of the Lada Granta also has its advantages:

• beautiful and pleasant instrument panel;
• cup holders installed;
• the glove compartment has been enlarged;
• There were no problems with the heater operation.

1. Steering rack. A significant advantage of the Grant over the Kalina is the shortened steering rack. This solution made it easier to drive the new car. But there was no room in the vehicle for an ashtray, but all was not lost.
2. Power unit.
   The engines in both cars are almost the same, but the Granta has some advantages. With the same number of valves per cylinder, the Kalina engine is capable of developing a power of 82 horsepower, and in the Grant - 90. Such indicators can be explained by the fact that the latter has a lightweight connecting rod and piston group. The Granta's power unit works faster, unlike the Kalina, and there is no unnecessary noise.
3. Safety system. It is worth noting that the Grant has two airbags, which cannot be said about the Kalina, and this is a good indicator, considering the new product as a budget car.

In addition, the new product, like its competitor Lada Kalina, will exist in a hatchback body. Granta in a hatchback body looks more youthful, but Lada Kalina is more functional in terms of transporting large loads.

Dynamics and handling

There is no data on this matter, but the 4x2 formula hints at the absence of off-road functions. The clearances of these cars are quite high - 160 and 180 mm. accordingly, therefore, light off-roading will not be a problem for them. Unless, after a long stay, the wheels get stuck and spin.

Security is represented by several options. It is even possible to install an alcohol lock, which will prevent the engine from starting if there is fumes. The cars are equipped with standard solutions, including child seat mounts and keyless engine start.

In more expensive trim levels you can find an alarm level higher than that of previous models.

Who has more choice of engines and gearboxes?

Starting from 2011, the models are almost identical in terms of power units. Both are equipped with 1.6 liter engines with capacities of 87, 98, 106 horsepower. The difference in the number of “horses” under the hood is achieved by modifying the engines and timing belt. But the Granta in the Sport package has a special 16-valve unit with 118 hp. With.

As for gearboxes, the brainchild of AvtoVAZ has two of them - 5 manual transmissions (modernized, cable) and 4 automatic transmissions from Jatco. True, in 2018, Granta also received a robotic 5th gearbox. And a little later, “Kalina 2” also inherited the “robot”.

Which car is right for you

If after reading the article you still cannot compare Kalina and Granta liftback and have not decided which car is best for you, pay attention to the most basic nuances:

• Exterior of the car. It is of no small importance, because every day it is you who drives the car, and not someone else.
• Price. Think carefully about what you are willing to pay for and what doesn't seem necessary. Based on this, choose the appropriate package
• Specifications. Decide what is more important to you - power and speed, or comfort and maneuverability on difficult roads? And perhaps the size of the trunk and the space in the cabin? Do you want to show off your car’s dynamic design to your friends and fly through the city at night, or just comfortably get from point A to point B? Only by thoughtfully and truthfully answering these questions can you choose the car that will completely satisfy you in all respects and will become a real “friend on wheels” for you!

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Source: https://avto-idea.ru/obzory/kakaya-luchshe-lada-granta-ili-lada-kalina-sravnivaem/

Engine

The twelfth was equipped mainly with 16-valve engines. Which seriously damaged the reputation of the car. The engine was supposed to become more economical, powerful, and fast. However, at the “bottoms” it was weaker than the 8-valve, a little more economical, but not significantly. Faster - however, in the city, thanks to the “bottoms”, the eight-valve engine won. But on the highway, the difference was unnoticeable.

A broken timing belt on an eight-valve engine only threatened to require its replacement, which any roadside car service can handle. A break in the belt of a sixteen-valve engine often resulted in the need for a major overhaul. The car's reputation suffered significantly, given the quality of assembly, service and spare parts in Russia - the car became a lottery. This problem was solved for the 1.6 liter engine modification 21124.

The advantage of Kalina, compared to the twelfth, was an old, proven, reliable, unpretentious horse - an 8-valve engine, known from the 08 - 09 family of the Volga Automobile Plant. The only downside of this engine was its tractor-like rumbling. Otherwise, this is an ideal domestic engine:

• Powerful.
• Economical.
• Reliable.
• With high maintainability.

Comparative analysis of VAZ 2111 and Lada Kalina

Everyone understands the feeling of feverish excitement when buying a new car. Walking through the car markets, your eyes widen. How to make the right purchase so as not to make a mistake in choosing. We pick up a car reference book and study the characteristics of the cars offered to us. Of course, the advantage is towards new cars.

The time of shortages has passed and now the buyer's opportunities are much greater. Of course, the choice should be made based on the characteristics of the models of interest to us. Of course, each car has its own advantages, and maybe even disadvantages. Therefore, we will be very careful.

Let's compare, for example, two models produced by AVTOVAZ - the Lada Kalina (Lada 1118) with a station wagon and the Lada 111 (VAZ 2111).

Let's check how the cars of these two brands cope on the country's roads. To begin with, let's compare the technical characteristics of both proposed models.

The modern, harmonious proportions of Kalina are pleasing with their streamlinedness compared to the angular, at first glance, 111th VAZ. Body lines without visible gaps. The doors open 90 degrees, and the trunk opens 10 cm wider than that of the “eleventh” and is clearly fixed, which is convenient for owners. The trunk door can be closed from the inside. For comparison, the trunk of the VAZ 2111 is in no way inferior, and even superior in size.

Inside the cabin there is relative silence, no engine detonation, no crackling of the front panel, no creaking seats, in comparison with the same VAZ 111. The insides of the “eleventh” are noticeably different from the Kalina, but the advantages of the 111 are the possibility of greater cargo transportation. Also, the “eleventh” can easily accommodate people with fairly large dimensions.

In comparison with the Zhiguli of the Soviet period - heaven and earth. The seat of the Lada 2111 is not at all suitable for a long trip, it contributes to poor posture, which is not at all unimportant during a long trip. The interior has an elegant panel, pleasant to the touch and the overall appearance is impressive, but it cannot compare with the high-quality design and ergonomics of the front panel of the Kalina.

Soft curves blend proportionally with the built-in computer and other essential accessories. The buttons on the panel are impeccable and the handles of the microclimate systems rotate without any effort on the part of the owner.

Kalina’s significant superiority over the “eleventh” is its modernized interior; the space in front of the rear seats has not been affected, despite its smaller dimensions compared to its rival. The upholstery is made in the best colors and from quality materials. The car has an excellent viewing angle of the road due to the high seating position and large mirrors.

The dimensions of the Kalina (length: 4040 mm, width: 1700 mm) are more compact, 24.5 cm shorter than the “eleventh” (length: 4285 mm, width 1680 mm), which is especially convenient when maneuvering on tight and narrow streets, it is easier to park in our “soviet” courtyards, while maintaining space inside the car.

Of course, the capacity of the VAZ 2111 is much larger, the loading height is smaller (by 80 mm), the threshold is lower, and when you extend the seats in the cabin, you can transport long-sized luggage, but other advantages of the Kalina overshadow these minor shortcomings. For example, the height-adjustable steering wheel is optimal in size, and the on-board computer fits well into the design of the panel. The seats are modern, comfortable and easy to fold.

The stove has air flow guides, unlike the VAZ 2111, where the air flow goes to the bottom and unevenly heats the interior, the stove itself is powerful and after 15 minutes warming up in the car is ensured. The interior color is made in light soft colors, so the interior volume is visually larger.

The doors of the car open wide, making it easy for the driver and passengers to get in. In comparison with the “eleventh”, in which the backrest latches are pulled out with great difficulty. As mentioned above, the VAZ 2111 benefits from its spaciousness, comfort is maintained, an advantageous solution is to install roof rails, this additionally allows you to transport up to fifty kilograms of luggage.

Both cars have an immobilizer, central locking, electric windows on the front doors, and athermal windows.

The level of interior assembly of the Lada Kalina in terms of ergonomics and the quality of the latest materials has taken a significant step forward. Newly purchased cars retain the smell for a long time; perhaps, over time, this defect will self-liquidate.

The engine of the Lada Kalina is equipped with the latest electronic fuel injection and ignition control system; thanks to this advantage, the car passes the most stringent and thorough requirements for reducing toxicity. And the reduction in toxic emissions is a consequence of the advanced new generation engine.

We draw a conclusion. Kalina is represented by an 8-valve 1.6-liter engine (81 hp) and a five-speed manual transmission in comparison with the VAZ 2111 - a 16-valve design with a capacity of 89 hp, however, Kalina comes straight from the very bottom, while The sixteen-valve engine has to accelerate to more than 3500 rpm.

Let's try to load our cars to capacity and see which car will have an advantage - Kalina wins, it easily copes with the task, while the VAZ 2111 starts off with problems, and is about to stall at the start. It's worth thinking about this fact.

Let's check our heroes on the road. How will they behave in extreme situations? Go! In third gear you can accelerate from 30 km/h. Acceleration dynamics are good, the only thing is that the sound of the engine at high speeds is heard more loudly than usual. At high speed our

Kalina feels more confident than the VAZ 2111, having accelerated to 130 km/h, the car is quite controllable, adequate and maneuverable in turns, goes softly and smoothly, gently bouncing on bumps.

The gearbox did not let us down, the transmission of the handle was well selected, was easy to control and did not bother us on the road. VAZ manufacturers promise us a speed of 179 km/h - not bad! But we will not recommend you to use such a speed, for your own safety.

At the factory, the car is equipped with Belshina tires. In winter, the car quickly throws in different directions, so it is recommended to change them to Dunlop winter tires, Cordiant Polar with studs (slightly noisy) or Amtel tires, which are quiet, have good and confident traction.

In winter, the car starts easily, so the cost of synthetic oil is justified.

Parking Kalina, thanks to the electric power steering, is smooth and obedient and the car brakes well. It would seem that the VAZ 2111 is not going to slow down at all, the heavy free play of the pedal is to blame; not understanding what is happening, you begin to press the pedal with all your might. The cars easily cope with our off-road conditions, and they pass ideal roads with angelic ease.

There is progress, the Kalina model turned out to be promising, our car market has been replenished with a reliable car. Of course, we are still a long way from foreign cars, but the work has not gone unnoticed by car enthusiasts.

We conclude: both cars are assembled for universal use, but the Lada 111 is more suitable for family use. In the assembly of Lada Kalina, the developers used quite a lot of the latest technologies and materials. Our cars in Russia and Ukraine are much better serviced, repairs are cheaper and it is not difficult to get the necessary parts.

Salon

The dimensions of the interior are important for daily driving - after all, the comfort inside largely depends on the size of the seat.

Comparison of interiors by internal dimensions:

As can be seen from the table: the front seat in twelfth is significantly wider: 20 centimeters. The space in the back is about the same.

Review of VAZ 2114

The predecessor of the VAZ 2114 was the VAZ 2113, which had long since gained universal popularity, converted from the “nine”. When creating this car, the overall exterior was partially updated. A new bumper was installed in the front part, thanks to which the VAZ 2114 acquired a streamlined shape. Of course, it does not go unnoticed that the rear of the car has suffered virtually no changes.

The interior, compared to the “nine”, has been completely redone. The car now has a European-style panel with a built-in thermometer and liquid crystal display. The ventilation in the cabin has also been significantly changed. The instruments were arranged as closely as possible, giving the driver additional free space.

The undeniable advantages of the car include seats upholstered with high-quality and modern materials, under which there is a heating system. At the request of the buyer, air conditioning and sports seats can be installed in the car. The model is constantly being improved. The only negative quality is that it is impossible to predict how well the machine was assembled.

The Russian company VAZ has long concluded a contract with Porsche in order to jointly develop several cars from the line, including the “nine”, which is the ancestor of the VAZ 2114 model. When deciding to purchase such a car, keep in mind that its continuous production began back in 2003. According to analysts, the VAZ 2114 has become the most common domestic car model in Russia, which cannot but inspire pride in the domestic automotive industry.

When choosing between the VAZ 2114 and VAZ 2112, it is worth considering that the VAZ 2112 is a car with very significant differences, not only in design, but also in technical features. The new generation of VAZ is distinguished by significant parameters, which largely depend on what class this car can be classified into. There are three main classes of VAZ:

• standard;
• norm;
• lux.

Quality

Kalina has become a testing ground for testing new engineering solutions, the shortcomings of which the car plant engineers can take decades to correct. Somehow:

• Power steering
• Electronic gas pedal.
• Safety airbags.

On the twelfth hatchback, innovations were less sophisticated.

Perhaps innovations, new technologies, improve technology. This is undoubtedly true, but not in Russia, where engineering problems may not be corrected for decades. In the budget line, reliability is valued, first of all, and new, untested technologies, in Russian conditions, significantly reduce reliability.

The build quality and materials of both Kalina and VAZ 2112 leave much to be desired. There is no difference between them here.

Comparison with other competitors

What are Lada Kalina and VAZ (Lada) 2111, the most popular competitors, most often compared to?

We first drove the Lada Kalina station wagon more than three years ago, but it only went into production just now. And it immediately turned out to be in great demand. Do you remember how scarce the first VAZ 10s were? And now we have been hunting for the “universal” Kalina for more than a month - but we finally took a nice melon-colored car for testing. And for comparison, there’s also the Lada 111: this is the long-known VAZ-2111, a station wagon of the “tenth” family that is becoming obsolete.

The utility Kalina is not a small sedan: here the proportions are more harmonious, and the rear lighting equipment fits into the body more neatly... But the VAZ-2111 against its background is just a “barn”. Moreover, if in Kalina the gaps between the body panels are small and even, then in the “eleventh” the trunk door rubs against the fender, and the gas tank flap sticks out.

conclusions

VAZ is better in aesthetics, more in space. A powerful, high-revving engine allows you to “ignite” without modifications. This is a car for young people who are not burdened with money, but have time to take care of the car. For those who like improvements and modifications, the space under the hood allows you to install a turbine, compressor, new fuel supply system and exhaust manifold. There is enough space in front to install sports seats. There is enough space in the trunk to install large subwoofers.

Kalina is suitable for practical, busy people who do not want to overpay for a vehicle. Its niche is where it is not a pity: in the countryside, in taxis, fishing, hunting, for people who value reliability above aesthetics and comfort. Copes perfectly with everyday needs - transporting, transporting, delivering supplies, things, building materials, etc. An unprepossessing, but reliable and economical car - a hard worker.

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