Russian mechanics have a knack for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, and Garage 54’s latest experiment with a Lada takes this trend to new heights. The team, known for its eccentric automotive projects, has outfitted a Fiat 124-derived Lada with 16 chainsaw engines in a V-shaped configuration, creating a unique blend of engineering and imagination.
The origin of the build
The Lada VAZ-2101, produced by AvtoVAZ between 1969 and 2012, served as the foundation for this ambitious project. Essentially a Russian adaptation of the Fiat 124, the Lada was stripped of its original 1.7-liter, 4-cylinder engine. In its place, Garage 54 installed 16 chainsaw engines sourced from Hüter Technik, a German manufacturer.
Each chainsaw engine was meticulously stripped of unnecessary parts to focus solely on its power output. The 16 chainsaw engines, each producing 4.5 horsepower and boasting a 58cc displacement, were mounted on a custom-built frame. These engines connect to a single metal rod via toothed gears welded to their crankshafts, allowing them to function as a unified power source.
How it works
Despite the unorthodox engine setup, several components from the original Lada were retained. The gas pedal is connected to the 16 cylinders through a network of wires, while the flywheel, starter motor, and manual gearbox remain untouched. This integration allows the car to maintain some semblance of its former drivability.
At 51 inches (130 cm) long, the custom V16 engine is a mammoth addition. To make room for it, Garage 54 extended the Lada’s front end, welding the structure back into place without adding a hood. The exposed engine, with its raw mechanical aesthetic, is reminiscent of something straight out of Mad Max.
Performance and practicality
While the concept might suggest extreme power, the numbers reveal a more modest performance. The combined output of the chainsaw engines totals 72 horsepower—just shy of the original 80 hp from the Lada’s factory engine. However, the V16 configuration isn’t about speed. The car accelerates from 0 to 37 mph (60 km/h) in approximately 26 seconds, making it more of a curiosity than a contender on the track.
The build comes with its quirks. The chainsaw engines produce significant noise, smoke, and vibrations, which are standard traits of this type of motor. In fact, the vibrations are so intense that sitting in the car is described as akin to receiving a full-body massage.
A one-of-a-kind experiment
Garage 54 has earned a reputation for pushing the limits of automotive customization. Previous projects include a 14-wheeled Lada, one that “walks” on metal legs, and another outfitted with tank tracks. This V16 chainsaw-powered Lada is another entry in their portfolio of wild experiments, demonstrating their willingness to explore the unconventional.
Source: Garage 54
