“Safari” color for VAZ 2106: how to choose and paint it correctly

Color "Safari" - one of the most recognizable and popular shades for VAZ 2106, especially among fans of retro style and off-road modifications. This color is associated with the spirit of adventure, reliability and the classic Soviet automobile industry. However, choosing the ideal shade is not so easy: over the decades of production of the “six”, factory paint codes have changed, and modern analogues may differ in tone.

In this article we will look at all the nuances of Safari color - from original codes VAZ palette to advice on painting and selection of materials. You will learn how to avoid mistakes during restoration, what paints are best to use for the body and interior, and where to find exact analogues for modern paint systems. Particular attention is paid to practical aspects: surface preparation, choice of varnish and protection against fading.

What is Safari color and why is it so popular?

Color "Safari" (sometimes called "Sahara" or "Sandy") is a light beige shade with a slight golden or grayish undertone. He appeared in the palette VAZ in the 1980s and immediately became a hit due to several reasons:

• 🌍 Versatility: suitable for both urban conditions and off-road (hence the name - association with safari).
• 🔄 Practicality: less easily soiled than white and does not heat up as much in the sun as dark colors.
• 🎨 Aesthetics: harmoniously combined with chrome elements and black bumpers VAZ 2106.
• 🚗 Nostalgia: Many owners choose it for restoration to preserve the original appearance.

I wonder what at the Safari factory it was applied in two layers: first primer-paint, and then semi-matte varnish, which gave the body a light texture. Today this effect can only be replicated using special materials.

Original "Safari" color codes for VAZ 2106

Over the years of production VAZ 2106 The Safari color has had several official designations. Basic codes that can be found in technical documentation:

Year of manufacture	Color code (VAZ)	Catalog name	Notes
1980–1985	620	Safari (light beige)	First version, warmer shade
1986–1992	620A	Safari (modified)	Added gray undertone for better fade resistance
1993–2001	620-1	Safari Suite	Higher gloss version with improved durability
2002–2006	620-2	Safari extra	Latest factory version, close to RAL 1014

It is important to consider that even within the same code, the shade could differ slightly due to the characteristics of paint production at different factories (for example, VAZ vs. IzhAvto). If you are restoring a car, it is better to check the original samples of the body under the hood or in the trunk - the paint fades less there.

⚠️ Attention: Code 620 often confused with 610 (“Ivory”), which is lighter and cooler. Before buying paint, check the code on the plate under the hood!

Modern analogues of the Safari color: how not to make a mistake?

Today original paint VAZ with code 620 are no longer produced, but many brands offer analogues. Here are the most accurate options:

• 🎨 Mobihel (Russia): VAZ 620 - the closest in composition, but may require tinting.
• 🌈 Duxone (Germany): 2K 620 VAZ — premium option with high resistance to UV rays.
• 🔍 PPG (USA): Deltaref 901620 - used in professional car services.
• 💎 Sikkens (Netherlands): Autocryl 620.00 — expensive, but perfectly conveys the original shade.

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

1. Tinting system: some showrooms offer to match the color to a sample from the body.
2. Paint type: acrylic, metallic or matte version (the original was semi-matte).
3. Resistant to fading: Cheap paints may turn yellow after 2-3 years.

Check the code on the plate under the hood|Check the shade in daylight|Check the type of varnish (matte/glossy)|Order a sample to test on a small area-->

If you paint the car yourself, we recommend using two-component acrylic enamels - they retain color longer and are resistant to chipping. For an ideal result, apply paint in 2-3 layers with intermediate drying.

Preparing the body of a VAZ 2106 for painting in Safari color

Before painting, the body must be carefully prepared. Here is a step-by-step algorithm:

1. Washing and degreasing: Use car shampoo and solvent (eg White spirit or Antisilicone).
2. Removing old paint: sander with attachment P80–P120 (for deep chips) or chemical removers.
3. Putty: for VAZ 2106 polyester putty is suitable (for example, Novol or 3M).
4. Primer: epoxy primer (e.g. PPG DP40) for protection against corrosion.

⚠️ Attention: If there are pockets of rust on the body, treat them rust converter (For example, Tsinkar) and apply anti-corrosion primer. Otherwise the paint will start to bubble within a year!

For the Safari color, uniform application of the primer is critical - it should not show through the light paint. Optimal layer thickness: 80–120 microns.

How to check the quality of preparation before painting?

Shine a flashlight on the body at an angle - all irregularities will be visible as shadows. Also run your hand: if you feel transitions between the putty and the metal, you need to sand again.

Painting technology: tips for perfect results

To keep the Safari color looking like it came from the factory, follow these guidelines:

• 🖌️ Tool: use a spray gun with a nozzle 1.3–1.4 mm and pressure 2–2.5 atm.
• 🌡️ Temperature: paint when 18–22°C and humidity is not higher 60%.
• ⏱️ Drying time: wait between coats 10–15 minutes, complete drying - 24 hours.
• 🔦 Lighting: Paint in a well-lit area to avoid skips.

For the Safari color it is especially important:

• Apply paint cross layers (first horizontally, then vertically).
• Use hardener in the proportion specified by the manufacturer (usually 2:1 or 4:1).
• After painting, cover the body clear varnish (For example, Sikkens Autoclear) to protect against burnout.

Caring for the body after painting: how to preserve the Safari color for a long time

Safari color is prone to fading and loss of shine if the body is not taken care of. Basic rules:

Problem	Reason	Solution
Yellowing of paint	Exposure to UV rays	Apply UV protective wax every 3 months
Matt spots	Aggressive detergents	Use a pH-neutral shampoo (e.g. Karcher)
Chips on the hood	Gravel hit	Install transparent anti-gravel film
Loss of shine	Oxidation of varnish	Polish the body 1-2 times a year with paste 3M or Menzerna

For washing VAZ 2106 in Safari color avoid:

• 🧽 Brush - they scratch the varnish.
• 🧴 Household chemicals (For example, Fairy or Mister Muscle).
• ☀️ Washing in direct sunlight - the water will dry too quickly, leaving streaks.

Common mistakes when painting a VAZ 2106 in Safari color

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that spoil the final result. Here are the most common:

1. Wrong shade selection: many people take paint according to the code 620, not taking into account that it could have changed in 40 years. Always order tinting based on a sample from the original body (for example, from under the hood).
2. Saving on materials: cheap primers and varnishes turn yellow after 1–2 years. Better to overpay for Duxone or Sikkens.
3. Painting without test coat: Apply paint to a small area first (such as the inside of a door) to evaluate the shade under different lighting conditions.
4. Ignoring temperature conditions: if painted at temperatures below 15°C, the paint will lie unevenly and will take longer to dry.

Another typical problem is different tonewhen parts (such as the hood and fenders) are different in color. To avoid this:

• Paint all the parts at the same time, not separately.
• Use paint from the same batch (check the batch number on the can).
• Add to paint 5–10% thinner for more uniform spraying.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the Safari color on the VAZ 2106

Is it possible to paint a VAZ 2106 in “Safari” with a spray can?

Technically yes, but the result will be worse than using a spray gun. Spray cans (Motip or Kudo) are suitable for local repairs (for example, chips), but for full body painting they will not provide uniform coverage. If you still decide, apply the paint in 3-4 thin layers with intermediate drying 15–20 minutes.

Which varnish is best to use for the Safari color?

Optimal choice - two-component acrylic varnish with UV filter. Good options:

• Sikkens Autoclear Plus — high gloss, scratch resistance.
• PPG D8115 — dries quickly, suitable for artisanal conditions.
• Mobihel 2K - a budget, but high-quality Russian analogue.

The varnish is applied in 2 layers with drying 10–15 minutes between them.

What is the difference between “Safari” and “Ivory” (code 610)?

These are two different colors:

• "Safari" (620) - warm beige with golden undertones.
• "Ivory" (610) - cold creamy, almost white.

In the photo they may appear similar, but in daylight the difference is noticeable. “Ivory” is lighter and less rich.

How much does it cost to paint a VAZ 2106 in “Safari” at a car service center?

The cost depends on the region and level of service:

• Budget service: 15 000–25 000 ₽ (without body preparation).
• Intermediate level: 30 000–50 000 ₽ (with sanding and primer).
• Premium: 60 000–100 000 ₽ (full cycle with anti-corrosion and polishing).

Do-it-yourself painting will cost 8 000–15 000 ₽ (paint + materials).

Is it possible to mix Safari paint with other colors for an original shade?

Yes, but only if you know the proportions exactly. For example, some masters add:

• 5% yellow pigment - for a warmer shade.
• 2% gray - to get closer to the factory 620A.

Experiment only with small portions and test on unwanted parts!