Mechanics in Russia have gained a reputation for their ability to transform the simple into the extraordinary, and Garage 54 raises the standards with each new project. Their recent creation feature a modified Fiat 124-based Lada with an engine that appears to come straight from a wild dream.
Designer: Garage 54
Changing the Lada needed a lot of adjustments to its engine compartment, which started at 18.5 inches wide. To fit the new steel frame, now measuring 51.8 inches, the team had to slice the front half of the car, prepare a supporting frame, and weld the sections together, resulting in a stretched design. This modification made the engine bay visible, giving the Lada a look that’s reminiscent of something out of Mad Max, making it a real standout on the streets.
Even with the vibrations from the chainsaw motors, which leads to a not-so-smooth ride even on the smoothest highways, it brings a thrill similar to a full-body massage. Plus, the smoke and noise produced by the engine makes each ride anything but ordinary, keeping riders engaged and on the edge through out the journey.
Handmade from scratch, the Lada’s engine bay, originally 18.5 inches, had to undergo significant modifications to fit the new steel frame. This now takes up 51.8 inches and the engine is left uncovered by a hood, which earns the Lada a Mad Max-worthy worthy vibe. The vibrations from the chainsaw engines aren’t going to make for the smoothest rides, but, hey, at least you can think of it like a body massage. Not to mention the constant smoke and noise, which always keeps everyone on their toes.
For this project, the team took apart sixteen 58cc, two-stroke Hüter BS-62 chainsaws from Hüter Technik, a German manufacturer. Putting these chainsaws together into a working engine compartment proved to be no small task. The motors are fitted onto a custom frame and work together to rotate a metal rod linked to a toothed gear that’s welded to the crankshaft.
This complex assembly connects to the gas pedal via a series of cables for smooth operation. Other than the unique engine, the Lada retains its original pieces like the flywheel, starter motor, and manual transmission, keeping a bit of its original charm despite all the changes.
