When it comes to car modifications, enthusiasts are known to push the boundaries of imagination and engineering. One such creation that’s been making waves in the automotive world is the insane V16-swap of a Lada sedan, powered by 16 chainsaw engines. This isn’t just a simple engine swap, but rather a completely unconventional and outlandish build. The Lada, a car originally derived from the Fiat 124, has been turned into a Frankenstein monster of sorts with its new powertrain setup.
This build took ingenuity, patience, and a whole lot of chainsaws. Each engine is positioned in a “V” shape inside the engine bay, replacing the original internal combustion engine. It’s a project that certainly earns a spot on the list of some of the most unique car builds seen this year. Let’s dive into the details of this crazy build and explore how it came to life.
Build Process
The creation of this monstrous V16-powered Lada required a significant amount of work and customization. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the build process:
- Chainsaw Engines: The starting point of the build was acquiring 16 chainsaw engines. These small yet mighty engines, usually used in handheld tools for cutting wood, were stripped down to their essential components. Unnecessary parts were removed to make the engines as lightweight as possible, yet functional for automotive use.
- Engine Configuration: Each of the 16 chainsaw engines was mounted on a custom frame. These engines were carefully arranged in a “V” shape within the engine bay of the Lada, a layout that is rarely seen in conventional car designs.
- Welding and Synchronization: A major challenge was synchronizing the movement of all 16 engines. To achieve this, a tooth gear was welded to each crankshaft. These gears work together to spin a central metal rod, ensuring that all the engines operate in unison.
- Throttle System: A custom throttle system was created using a series of cables, which link all 16 cylinders to the gas pedal. This allows the driver to control the power output from the chainsaw engines in a coordinated manner.
- Retaining Original Components: Despite the radical engine modification, the Lada retained its original flywheel, starter motor, and manual transmission. This decision helped maintain some semblance of the car’s original driving dynamics, even though the powertrain was drastically altered.
With all these parts coming together, it’s no wonder that the build took time and precision. Every detail had to be thought out and tested to ensure the car would start and run — albeit not without its challenges.
Dimensions and Adjustments
The size of the 16 engines posed another unique challenge. Each individual engine measures relatively small, but when combined, the total length of the connected engines is 51 inches. This presented a significant issue in fitting them into the Lada’s engine bay, which was never designed to accommodate such a setup.
To solve this, the team at Garage 54 had to extend the Lada’s front end. This adjustment not only allowed the engines to fit, but it also altered the car’s overall proportions, giving it a unique appearance. The sheer size of the engine cluster meant that the front end had to be reworked extensively, making this a more involved process than simply swapping out an engine for something more conventional.
Power Output: Numbers That Don’t Add Up
When you hear about a car with 16 engines, you might expect some truly extraordinary horsepower. After all, with 16 individual engines working in unison, it seems like it should pack a significant punch. However, in reality, the numbers tell a different story.
Each of the chainsaw engines used in the build has a displacement of 58 cubic centimeters and produces about 4.5 horsepower. When multiplied by the 16 engines, this results in a combined engine displacement of 928 cubic centimeters and a total output of 72 horsepower. While this sounds impressive in terms of raw numbers, it’s important to compare this to the car’s original engine.
The largest engine the Lada originally came with was a 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 80 horsepower. So, while the V16 setup technically produces less horsepower (72 hp compared to 80 hp), it does so in a radically different manner. This isn’t a powerhouse by any means, but it is a demonstration of creative engineering and the pursuit of building something completely unique.
Performance and Driving Experience
When it comes to the performance of this one-of-a-kind creation, expectations should be tempered. While the V16 Lada might sound powerful on paper, the reality is that its lack of torque severely limits its performance. Despite the fact that the engine cluster generates 72 horsepower, the car struggles to achieve rapid acceleration.
From a full stop, the Lada takes a lengthy 26 seconds to reach a top speed of 37 miles per hour. This is far from a race car, and it’s clear that the lack of torque makes it difficult for the car to get moving quickly. However, this is part of the charm of the build. It’s not about performance or speed, but about creating something fun, unique, and memorable.
The car does indeed drive, albeit slowly, and is capable of moving from point A to point B. The original Lada chassis, now paired with the chaotic engine cluster, still functions, even if it’s not the quickest ride on the road. It’s a spectacle, though, and certainly an attention-grabber.
Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Engineering
The V16-swap Lada powered by 16 chainsaw engines is a true testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the builders at Garage 54. It’s not about making a fast or powerful car — it’s about pushing the limits of what’s possible and creating something entirely new and unexpected.
While the performance may not rival modern sports cars, the project serves as a conversation starter and a demonstration of what can be achieved when you take a quirky idea and turn it into a reality. The Lada, despite its limitations, runs and drives — making it an astonishing example of a crazy car build.
This build is a perfect example of how the world of car modifications isn’t just about increasing horsepower or reducing weight, but also about creativity and fun. Whether you’re a gearhead or just someone who loves to see bold and bizarre projects come to life, the V16 Lada is sure to leave an impression.
