Throughout automotive history, there have been a few cars that have developed some truly terrible reputations, none more so than the Lada. The notion of driving one around one’s immediate locale was risky enough, but those who took theirs to the continent were seen as either brave, or a little bit stupid – especially if they didn’t have their European breakdown cover bang up to date!

But despite their reputation and the scores of jokes that surrounded them (Q: What do you call a Lada with brakes? A: Customised), they have sold very well indeed. By the end of this year, the very last Lada will have rolled off the production line, after 40 years and a staggering 18 million units – that’s right, 18 million. A joke it may be, but few other car makers in the world have matched such figures.

The Lada was based on the Fiat 124, which was in fact the Car of the Year 1967. The 124 was praised for its versatility and handling – and yes, even comfort. The Lada was a cheap car, yes, but in reality it was also a fairly reliable vehicle that you could get the whole family in. Perhaps it was the boxy Soviet looks that attracted so many slurs.

While the Lada will cease to be made very soon, it will remain a common sight in many countries – particularly Cuba, Egypt and the Caribbean, where it sold especially well – even until recently. The Lada will surely have the last laugh – as it is likely to be driven until long after the jokes have dried up.