Moskvich Yuriy Dolgorukiy 17 (85 Hp)

The Moskvich Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 (85 hp) was a variant of the Yuriy Dolgorukiy model produced between 1998 and 2002. Representing a significant, though ultimately unsuccessful, attempt to modernize the Moskvich brand, the Yuriy Dolgorukiy aimed to offer a contemporary hatchback option to Soviet and post-Soviet consumers. The 1.7-liter, 85 horsepower engine configuration occupied a central position in the lineup, serving as the standard engine option and a balance between affordability and acceptable performance. It was positioned below the limited-production, more powerful engines, and above any potential base models that may have existed with smaller displacement engines.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 was the ZMZ-4062.10 inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. Displacing 1699 cc (103.68 cubic inches), this engine produced 85 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 3200 rpm. The engine featured a relatively low compression ratio of 9.5:1 and utilized a two-valve per cylinder (SOHC) valvetrain. A key characteristic of this engine, and a point of criticism, was its carbureted fuel injection system. While simpler and cheaper to manufacture than multi-point fuel injection, the carburetor resulted in less precise fuel metering, contributing to lower fuel economy and higher emissions compared to contemporary vehicles. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle.

The Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 was primarily equipped with a five-speed manual transmission. While an automatic transmission was offered on some Yuriy Dolgorukiy models, it was not commonly paired with the 1.7-liter engine due to the engine’s relatively low output. The manual transmission was a standard configuration, designed to maximize the available power and provide reasonable acceleration. The transmission was a conventional setup, with synchromesh on all forward gears.

Engine Details

The ZMZ-4062.10 engine’s bore and stroke measured 85 mm (3.35 inches) and 75 mm (2.95 inches) respectively. This configuration resulted in a relatively under-square engine design, favoring torque production at lower engine speeds. The engine block was constructed from cast iron, providing durability, while the cylinder head was made of aluminum alloy to reduce weight. The engine’s design was a continuation of earlier ZMZ engines, representing an evolution rather than a complete redesign.

Driving Characteristics

The Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 offered modest performance. With 85 horsepower propelling a relatively heavy hatchback, acceleration was not a strong point. The 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) time was estimated to be around 14-16 seconds. Top speed was officially rated at 160 km/h (99.42 mph), though achieving this speed consistently would have been challenging. The five-speed manual transmission helped to keep the engine within its optimal power band, but the carbureted fuel system often resulted in a sluggish throttle response. Compared to potential higher-output versions of the Yuriy Dolgorukiy (which were rare), the 1.7-liter engine lacked the punch needed for spirited driving. However, it provided sufficient power for everyday commuting and general transportation. The gear ratios were fairly standard for the time, prioritizing fuel economy over outright acceleration.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 was typically offered in a relatively basic trim level, reflecting its position as the entry-level or standard model. Standard features generally included cloth upholstery, a basic instrument cluster, and manual windows and door locks. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were power windows and a more advanced audio system. Interior plastics were of a utilitarian quality, prioritizing durability over aesthetics. The dashboard layout was functional but lacked the sophistication of contemporary Western European or Japanese vehicles. The seats offered adequate comfort for short to medium-distance journeys. Optional extras could include upgraded sound systems, alloy wheels (though rare), and a sunroof.

Chassis & Braking

The Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 utilized a conventional front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent suspension at the front and a semi-independent suspension at the rear. The front suspension consisted of MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed a twist-beam axle. This setup provided a reasonable ride quality, though it was not particularly sporty. The steering system was a rack and pinion type, offering acceptable precision. The braking system featured disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The brakes were adequate for normal driving conditions, but lacked the stopping power of more modern braking systems. A stabilizer bar was included at the front to reduce body roll during cornering.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 received mixed reviews. Critics generally acknowledged its affordability and practicality, but criticized its outdated technology, particularly the carbureted engine and basic interior. Compared to other vehicles available in the Russian market at the time, such as the Lada 110 or imported used cars, the Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 offered a reasonable value proposition. However, its fuel economy was not particularly impressive, and its reliability was often questioned. The 1.7-liter engine was generally considered more reliable than the larger, more complex engines offered in other Yuriy Dolgorukiy variants. The manual transmission was also considered relatively robust. However, the overall build quality of the vehicle was often inconsistent.

Technical Specifications

Legacy

The Moskvich Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7, while not a resounding success, represents an important chapter in the history of the Russian automotive industry. The ZMZ-4062.10 engine, despite its limitations, proved to be relatively durable and is still found in some vehicles today. The Yuriy Dolgorukiy 1.7 remains a relatively affordable classic car, appealing to enthusiasts and those seeking a simple, reliable vehicle. However, finding parts can be challenging, and maintenance often requires specialized knowledge. In the used car market, the 1.7-liter version is generally preferred over the more complex and less reliable higher-output variants. The car’s simplicity and relatively robust construction contribute to its continued presence on the roads, albeit in diminishing numbers. The Yuriy Dolgorukiy, and specifically the 1.7 variant, serves as a reminder of a period of transition and modernization in the Russian automotive landscape.