On March 17, 1999, the serial production of the ZAZ-1103 ‘Slavuta’ began, which became the last major development of the Zaporizhia Automobile Plant. This affordable and inexpensive liftback quickly gained popularity among Ukrainian drivers, and its design became the basis for numerous unique tuning projects. Owners experimented with the ‘Slavuta’, creating station wagons, coupes, crossovers, electric cars, and even rally vehicles based on it.
This is reported by Finway
Station Wagon and Electric Car Based on ‘Slavuta’
In addition to the classic version, the ‘Slavuta’ served as the foundation for the creation of station wagons. Similar models were built in Kyiv and Zaporizhia. The main modernization involved changing the rear part of the body and installing fiberglass trunk doors with vertical glass. This significantly increased the trunk capacity and made the interior more spacious for passengers.
No less interesting is the tuning in which the ‘Slavuta’ was transformed into an electric car. There were even plans for limited series production of such vehicles. This variant vividly demonstrates the flexibility of the ZAZ-1103 design for the implementation of modern technologies.
Coupe, Crossover, and Sports Car: The Brightest Modifications
Enthusiasts did not limit themselves to station wagons and electric cars. A coupe was also created based on the ‘Slavuta’, which received doors from the ‘Tavria’, giving the car a sportier appearance. Another unique version is a crossover, which was recently spotted in Melitopol, Zaporizhia region. In this vehicle, most of the body panels were replaced, and the design became more massive and aggressive: with a high hood, wide fenders, large headlights, and an elongated body due to an insert between the doors.
Particular attention is drawn to the tuned rally ‘Slavuta’, which was prepared for competitions in 2010. The car received a powerful 2.0-liter Chevrolet engine with over 200 horsepower, sports seats, and a safety cage. Another interesting project is the turbocharged ‘Slavuta’. Under the hood of such a car is a 1.7-liter VAZ engine with a turbocharger from the Mazda CX-7, which allowed it to reach 250 hp and accelerate to 100 km/h in 6 seconds. The car is also equipped with a gas cylinder installation.
“This ZAZ-1103, at first glance, seems quite serial. The liftback is only slightly lowered, has alloy wheels, and new headlights. However, it’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Under the hood is a 1.7-liter VAZ engine, complemented by a turbocharger from the Mazda CX-7. It develops 250 hp, allowing it to accelerate to 100 km/h in 6 seconds and cover a quarter mile (402 m) from a standstill in 13.6-13.8 seconds. The maximum speed of the ‘Slavuta’ has increased to 190 km/h. Moreover, the ZAZ-1103 is also equipped with gas equipment.”
Among other interesting modifications is the ‘Slavuta’ with air conditioning and heated steering wheel, which is a rare option for a budget car. Such projects prove that the simple ZAZ-1103 liftback can be not only an affordable means of transportation but also a basis for bold engineering experiments.