The NAMI-0284 Debut, internally designated Nami 0284, was a concept car in what was then described as the "extra-small" class, developed by the Soviet research institute NAMI and completed at the end of 1987. It was built with an eye toward applying some of its solutions to a future production ZAZ model. The car was an aerodynamically optimized small hatchback with a plastic body mounted on a steel skeleton frame, designed to keep both dimensions and weight to a minimum.
Its drivetrain mechanics were derived from the new Soviet small car Oka (VAZ-1111), while the suspension was entirely newly engineered as a hydropneumatic system with electronic control, allowing ground clearance to be varied between 16 and 24 cm at the push of a button. The rear suspension elements were mounted horizontally to preserve seating and luggage space, and the rear seats could be folded to form a flat load floor. A later variant with slightly revised trim, known as Debut-II, was also built, using a MeMZ-245 engine in place of the Oka-family units; tests were also planned with a turbocharged VAZ-11113 and a 16-valve MeMZ head, though these remained at the planning stage. The car featured an electro-vacuum clutch and a cruise control system for maintaining constant speed.
The smooth-surfaced body featured a rounded nose with covered headlights, a low beltline allowing generous glass area, and partially enclosed rear wheels on 12-inch rims. A model achieved a drag coefficient of 0.19, while the finished car was expected to reach between 0.23 and 0.25. The front hood hinged fully forward. Front seats were carefully shaped for comfort, and instead of conventional instruments the car used an electronic "Polyscreen" display offering function checks, key driving data, and a planned navigation aid.
The engine was a 644 cc two-cylinder unit producing 28 hp at 5,500 rpm, paired with a 4-speed gearbox. Dimensions included a 236 cm wheelbase, track widths of 132/120 cm, length/width/height of 368.5/155/137 cm, and a weight of 730 kg.
