Description
Very rare opportunity to own a rather special UK spec right hand drive Lada Riva 1500E Estate.
Finished in Rubin Red (110) with contrasting black/ navy interior she is one of the last to be sold in UK. She has been part of my car collection over 6 years with only one previous owner to me who purchased her new from Blue Boar Garage in Norwich. Genuine 20150 miles only having been dry stored since 2003. She comes with a documented service history.
She is now ready to use and enjoy having undergone thorough recommissioning including, but not limited to the following;
New fuel pump
New fuel filter
New brake master cylinder
New clutch master cylinder
New brake lines throughout
New thermostat
New Webber carburettor
New radiator cap
Reverse flushed radiator with new anti-freeze
Removed, professionally cleaned and replaced fuel tank (runs super-unleaded)
New tyres
New suspension/ drive-chain rubbers/ gaiters as required
Underbody cavity wax (clear)
Fully services including new engine/ gearbox and diff oil
The car is exceptionally original and honest. I have been careful to not 'over-restore' her, instead aiming to make her safe and reliable whilst retaining her original patina - the theory being that cars are only ever original once. She has never been welded and has just passed her MOT with no advisories.
I am delighted to say that she drives brilliantly, much more spritely and involving that I ever imagined. Being a RWD 1500 weighing only 1180kg she goes really well. She turns heads everywhere she goes.
All in all a genuine, truly practical classic that has been an absolute pleasure to own. She will no doubt be cherished and loved by her next lucky owner.
Located in North Norfolk (NR11). I would be happy to collect potential buyers from Norwich train, bus station or Norwich airport.
Happy to send more pictures or videos if required. The Lada has a fascinating history. They were originally marketed in the UK as a 'cheap' entry into new car ownership. During the 80s the demand for the Lada back in Russia was so high that many were purchased by folk 'in the know' and were shipped back to their home country commanding a premium price.
In an odd twist of fate, this mass exodus of cars along with the usual corrosion issues that affect most vehicles in the UK, resulted in very few good RHD Lada's remaining. Those that did survive were often too far gone to save and were/ are still being snapped up by the 'banger boys and gals'.
Thankfully, there is an incredibly supportive, knowledgeable owners group and parts supply is strong for all bar some parts which are unique to RHD cars.
So having been mocked during the 80s/ 90s, Lada's are now being recognised as a very cool, different alternative to the other more common RWD offerings. The challenge is finding a good one.
