The history of this legendary car began in 1953, when the talented (and at that time the chief) designer of the Molotov automobile plant, Andrei Aleksandrovich Lipgart, set about drawing another "bomb" for the USSR motorists. As the creator and undergoing a long-term internship in America at the Ford plant, he understood that even his "Victory" (which was one of the best cars of that time in the USSR) required significant modernization.

Full-scale plaster models M-21 Rodina (Volga) and M-21 Zvezda

And now, by 1953, Lipgart took a Whatman paper in his hands, and began working on a completely new model, called "M-21". Many sources say that it is a kind of copy of Ford. But is it? Lipgart, who took an active part in the development and modernization of these cars, only adopted the invaluable experience that American engineers gave him, and embodied them in his unique unit, which has been living under the name "Volga" for so many years.

The birth of a new "Star"

At the end of 1953, Alexander Mikhailovich Nevzorov was appointed the designer of the new model, and the design was entrusted to Lev Eremeev. From the very beginning to the end of the development of the GAZ 21 car, many samples of the latest American cars (Plymouth Savoy, Ford Mainline and Chevrolet Styline Deluxe) were actively taken into account and some of their details are really felt, both in the design and in the design of the Volga ... Only 2 years have passed since the start of the design, and 3 samples were already ready for state testing. The updated GAZ had a power of 70 horsepower, and each sample was equipped with an overhead valve engine. But this type of engine had a hemispherical combustion chamber and was only experimental, so it suffered many failures and, in the end, was not approved for serious production. One version of the Volga had a manual transmission, and the other two had an automatic transmission (which at that time became a real sensation for the citizens of the Soviet Union). These automatic transmissions were three-speed, and the main gear had a tapered shape (only a few years later, it began to be produced as a hypoid).

Also, the first GAZ-21 had an independent front suspension with hydraulic shock absorbers; rear independent suspension with springs; large radiator with 10 holes; rear lights, consisting of side lights, brake and turning lights; as well as - . The salon was equipped with a three-band radio, and a corporate logo appeared on the hood -. The test route was the Moscow-Crimea route (there and back). As shown by the results that the mechanical, that the automatic transmission cope with difficulties on the road (mountains, sand, bumps. Stones, etc.) in the same way. And as a result, in 1957, the first Volgas went on sale. But due to the poor economic situation in the USSR, as well as the lack of high-quality car oils and highly qualified service centers, the GAZ 21 with an automatic transmission was limited to only 700 copies, the emphasis was on the mechanical gearbox. The total number of all issued copies over the next 2 years was more than 30 thousand, the price of which was 17,500 rubles.

World-class "tank on wheels"

In 1958, the Volga literally acquired a "second life". The modernization of the model significantly affected its appearance: the direction indicators changed, the bumper acquired a different, more refined shape, and the radiator now had 16 vertical holes instead of the “Star” (for which soon the Volga would be called “the shark's mouth”). became more comfortable, in some modifications there was a leatherette finish, as well as wool covers for the seats and the rear sofa. This year is also considered significant for Volga by the fact that it was presented at the international automobile exhibition and was awarded the Grand Prix. After that, the Soviet plant began to produce 4 modifications at once: a regular sedan, a "limit", a taxi and an export version. The demand was huge both in Europe and beyond. As soon as this car was not called: “tank on wheels”, and “work horse”, and “tank in tailcoat”. In any case, this meant only one thing - this is one of the most prominent representatives of the automotive industry of the twentieth century, who instantly won the hearts of millions.

It is not strange that closer to 1962, our "Volga" acquired the status of "the best car of the 60s".

And this was facilitated not only by its great popularity, but also by regular external changes. Having got rid of sharp shapes, the Volga's appearance became more elegant and modern, there was a new radiator grill, nicknamed the "whalebone", which consisted of 37 vertical struts, and the taillight illuminating the license plate was shaped like a flying gull.

By the way, in the same year, according to a special assignment, it was developed.

It was a completely secret modification of the car with a 160-horsepower V 8 "Chaika" engine, power steering and an automatic gearbox. In almost 7 years, only 603 copies were released, and then not for public use, but only for special services.

In 1965, Volga became the star of television screens. It was Ryazanov's film "Beware of the Car", the main role of which was played by Innokenty Smoktunovsky, that made the GAZ-21 a real legend. In the same year, the engineers of the Molotov plant resorted to the next (and as it turned out - the last) modernization of the Volga. The front wheels of the car were equipped, improved windscreen wipers and a more efficient internal heater were installed, and the side members were significantly strengthened. It is known that a whole project was even developed for a complete restyling of the fourth generation GAZ-21, which, unfortunately, was not destined to come true. After all, in the summer of 1970, the production of all modifications was discontinued, and on July 5, the Volga GAZ-21US (numbered body - 334312) was the last to leave the assembly line and still occupies an honorable place in the museum of the world famous Molotov plant. But, in spite of everything, "Volga" even nowadays are of great value and are in demand. Both modern drivers and connoisseurs of the undying classics love them.

Basic modifications of the base sedan

Automatic transmission gear selector.

GAZ-M-21A - 1957-1958, taxi model 1957;

GAZ-M-21AYU - 1958-1959, tropical version of the 1957 model taxi;

GAZ-M-21A - 1959-1962, taxi model 1959;

GAZ-M-21AYU - 1959-1962, a tropical version of the 1959 model taxi;

GAZ-M-21B - 1957, taxi model of 1957 with lower valve engine;

GAZ-M-21V - 1957-1958, basic sedan model 1957;

GAZ-M-21ВЮ - 1957-1958, tropical version of the 1957 model;

GAZ-M-21G - 1956-1957, base sedan model 1957 with a lower valve engine;

GAZ-M-21GYu - 1956-1957, tropical version of the 1957 model with a low-valve engine;

GAZ-M-21D - 1957-1958, export version of the 1957 model;

GAZ-M-21DU - 1957-1958, tropical export version of the 1957 model;

GAZ-M-21EE - tropical export version of the 1957 model with automatic transmission;

GAZ-M-21I - 1958-1962, basic sedan model 1958;

GAZ-M-21K - 1959-1962, export version of the 1958 model;

GAZ-M-21KB - 1960-1962, 1958 model car kit for Belgium;

GAZ-M-21KYu - 1959-1962, tropical export version of the 1958 model;

GAZ-M-21L - 1962-1964, basic sedan model 1962;

GAZ-M-21M - 1962-1964, export version of the 1962 model;

GAZ-M-21MYu - 1962-1964, tropical export version of the 1962 model;

GAZ-21N - 1964 - export version of the 1962 model with right-hand drive;

GAZ-21NYu - 1964 - tropical export version of the 1962 model with right-hand drive;

GAZ-21P - export version of the 1965 model with right-hand drive;

GAZ-21PE - export version of the 1965 model with right-hand drive and automatic transmission;

GAZ-21R - 1965-1970, base sedan model 1965;

Gas 21P - police.

GAZ-21S - 1965-1970, export version of the 1965 model;

GAZ-21T - 1962-1964, taxi model 1962;

GAZ-21TS - 1965-1970, taxi model 1965;

GAZ-21U - around 1959-1964, modification with improved design of the 1959 and 1962 models;

GAZ-21US - 1965-1970, modification with improved design of the 1965 model;

GAZ-21F - experimental with a pre-chamber engine;

GAZ-21E - 1965-1970, sedan model 1965 with shielded electrical equipment.

GAZ-22A-1958, Experimental van

GAZ-22-1962-64, Station wagon. Base model 75 hp

GAZ-22B -1962-64 Ambulance 75 hp

GAZ-22BK-1962-64 Forced up to 85 hp option 22B

GAZ-22BKYu-1962-64 Tropical version 22BK

GAZ-22BM-1962-64 Export version 22B (BK)

GAZ-22BMU Tropical version 22BM

GAZ-22V -1965-70 Basic model

GAZ-22G -1962-65 Export version 22.75 hp

GAZ-22D -1965-70 Ambulance car

GAZ-22E-1965-70 Export version 22V 75 hp

GAZ-22EE -Tropical version 22E

GAZ-22K -1962-64 Forced up to 85 hp export version 22KE

GAZ-22V -23 -1962-70 Special car with V8 engine and automatic gearbox

• photo I.Paderin "GAZ 1932-1982 Russian cars"

GAZ-23 - basic model;

GAZ-23A - with a manual transmission (experimental);

GAZ-23A1 - with special equipment;

With improved finishes;

Model	Door / window edging	Engine power	Engine capacity	Checkpoint	A type	Notes
First series (1956-1958)
GAZ-M-21	No no	65 hp	2.42 l	3-speed Automatic transmission	Basic	Rear axle with continuous housing Conical gearbox Star logo Roof drains
GAZ-21V	No no	70 h.p.	2.42 l	3-speed fur	Basic
GAZ-21E	Yes Yes	80 h.p.	2.42 l	3-speed Automatic transmission	Export
Second series (1958-1962)
GAZ-21I	No no	70 hp	2.42 l	3-speed fur	Basic	Increased wheel arches Radiator with 16 holes Reflectors in the glass of the rear lights Windshield washer Installation of body amplifiers Gutters shortened Chrome inserts
GAZ-21U	Yes Yes	80 h.p.	2.42 l	3-speed Automatic transmission	Improved
-
Third series (1962-1970)
GAZ-21L	No no	75 hp	2.42 l	3-speed fur	Basic	The radiator has 37 vertical struts Smooth bumper Telescopic shock absorbers Leatherette interior Long gutters
GAZ-21R	No no	85 h.p.	2.42 l	3-speed fur	Basic
GAZ-21US	Yes Yes	85 h.p.	2.42 l	3-speed fur	Improved

The third series of "Volga" GAZ-21 - the result of the modernization carried out in April 1962, outwardly markedly different from the first two. Modifications of the "third edition" became the most massive of the 21 Volga line. In fact, the cars of the "first series" - with a star, rolled off the assembly line for about a year and nine months. The "second series" was measured out for about three and a half years. And the "third" was produced on the Gorky conveyor for more than eight years.

Back in the late 50s, as soon as the production of the Volga GAZ-21 was finally mastered and Pobeda was discontinued, the designers of the Passenger Cars Department of KEO GAZ received a technical assignment for the design of a completely new Volga of the next generation GAZ-24. But work on the initial versions of the new car dragged on, it took time to decide on its future appearance. Temporarily, to make the base model look more modern, the head of the Passenger Cars Department N.N. Yushmanov and his colleagues decided to modernize the existing Volga. Moreover, priority was given not to the aggregate base, but to the appearance of the car. Design artist Lev Eremeev, the author of the original version of the GAZ-21, as well as the "Chaika" GAZ-13 and the first modification of the ZIL-111, was commissioned to design the updated exterior. The experienced designer coped with the task brilliantly. As they said at the plant, he managed to "put the entire body in the lining."

Only a few decorative elements, inexpensive to manufacture, radically changed the appearance of the serial Volga. The same cladding, not rounded, with large ventilation windows, as before, but made of thin beams bent at a large sharp angle in the spirit of the future Volga GAZ-24. Bumpers without fangs, also "straightened", recruited from a chrome upper and a lower body-colored strip. New lighting technology: front side lights that extend to the sidewall and faceted rear lights without chrome frame. The body of the back room lighting is in the form of a bird silhouette, like the Seagull. New emblem. And, finally, the figure of a deer and a longitudinal molding have completely disappeared from the hood. All these minor details, thought out to the smallest detail, were hung on the same body, created in the mid-50s, did not affect the performance of the car in any way, but they made it possible to achieve the set task - to make a favorable impression with their novelty.

Inside, the same seats in the form of massive sofas, the same characteristic ivory steering wheel with a horn ring and a deer in the middle, the same dashboard with a round clock, a large receiver speaker and a transparent blue speedometer hood. Further, only the style of the upholstery of the seats and "door cards" changed, the fabric upholstery of the headlining gave way to a fabric sewn from artificial leather.

And, most importantly, there were no changes in the aggregate base. From the point of view of the driver and auto mechanic, the Volga remained the same car as it was before. This suited the repairmen of motor depots and taxi companies, who did not need to change anything in their work, private buyers, who, first of all, due to the lack of alternatives, continued to consider the Volga a prestigious car.

At first, the basic model with the appearance of the “third edition” and mechanically almost identical to the late “Volgas” of the “second edition” was called GAZ-21L, and its export version with a set of additional chrome decor was called GAZ-21M. In 1965, when some changes in the units followed - a new K-124 carburetor, roller hub bearings, etc., the first generation Volga was assigned final indices - the basic version of the GAZ-21R, the export one - the GAZ-21US. But in addition to the extra chrome trim, export cars relied on a forced engine, which, thanks to the increased compression ratio, produced not 75, but 80-85 hp. Therefore, in recent years of production, an intermediate modification of the GAZ-21S has become widespread, combining the appearance of the base model without additional chrome and a forced export engine. Such cars, in particular, were widely supplied to the police.

Abroad, the demand for the Volga GAZ-21 was falling from year to year, and the plant supplied more and more cars to the domestic market. Export cars entered the garages of state organizations, were used as personal cars, and were sold to private traders through the growing system of “currency” stores “Berezka”. By the end of the 60s, ordinary Volga GAZ-21R became noticeably more accessible to ordinary average Soviet families than a few years earlier.

In 1966, the plant had already prepared the final version of the new "Volga" GAZ-24, but it did not work to replace the base model in 1967-1968, as planned. Only on July 15, 1970, after the last GAZ-21US, they assembled the first of the large-scale, and in fact the 793rd "Volga" GAZ-24. Those 200-250 thousand cars of the GAZ-21 family, which were released in 1968-1970, made the 21st "Volga" a much more common model. In taxis, these cars served in parallel with 24 Volgas until 1975, in garages of state organizations - until the end of the 70s. Years later, thanks to the numerous production of the late 60s, the Volga GAZ-21 is not at all a rare retro car.

Technical specifications

Number of places	5
dimensions	4770x1885x1620 mm
Wheelbase	2700 mm
Engine	gasoline, carburetor, in-line, four-cylinder, overhead valve ZMZ-21S (differs from ZMZ-21A in increased compression ratio)
Working volume	2445 cm 3
Power	75 h.p. at 4000 rpm
Curb weight	1460 kg
Maximum speed	130 km / h
Fuel consumption	12-13 l / 100 km

GAZ-21 "Volga" - Soviet middle-class car, mass-produced at the Gorky Automobile Plant from 1956 (1957) to 1970. Model factory index - initially GAZ-M-21, later (since 1965) - GAZ-21... A total of 639,478 copies of all modifications were produced.

BACKGROUND

Since 1946, GAZ has been producing the GAZ-M-20 Pobeda passenger car. At the time of the start of production "Pobeda" was distinguished by a fairly modern design and advanced design.

However, by the beginning of the next decade, its appearance gradually began to become obsolete, the aggregate part also lagged behind the level of world leaders. There was a need to replace it with a more modern technically and visually perfect model.

"POBEDA-NAMI"

The first attempt to develop a promising model to replace the existing GAZ-M-20 dates back to 1948, when NAMI specialists, commissioned by the Ministry of the Automotive Industry, developed their own version of the restyling of the serial Pobeda, which in history remained under the designation Pobeda-NAMI. There were two options - the authors of the first, Y. Dolmatovsky and L. Terent'ev, and the second, Y. Dolmatovsky and V. Aryamov.

THE SECOND GENERATION VICTORY PROJECT

Since 1951, the development of a new-generation middle-class car under the designation GAZ-M-21 "Pobeda-II" (General Designer - AA Lipgart, later - V. Solovyov; designer - L. Eremeev) began directly at GAZ. The sample was brought to a plaster model, which outwardly to a large extent resembled the serial GAZ-M-12 "ZIM", the designer of which was the same Lev Eremeev.

However, "ZIM" itself had already become obsolete by this time, therefore the second generation "Pobeda" project was not accepted for production. And soon the plant began to work on other, much more promising models, one of which was later chosen for mass production as the successor to the "Victory".

BASIC MODIFICATIONS OF THE BASE SEDAN

• GAZ-M-21 - sedan model 1957 with automatic transmission;
• GAZ-M-21A - 1957-1958, taxi model 1957;
• GAZ-M-21AYU - 1959-1958, tropical version of the 1957 model taxi;
• GAZ-M-21A - 1959-1962, taxi model 1959;
• GAZ-M-21AYU - 1959-1962, tropical version of the 1959 model taxi;
• GAZ-M-21B - 1957, taxi model 1957 with a lower valve engine;
• GAZ-M-21V 1957-1958, 1957 base sedan
• GAZ-M-21VYu - 1957-1958, tropical version of the 1957 model;
• GAZ-M-21G - 1956-1957, 1957 base sedan with a low-valve engine;
• GAZ-M-21GYu - 1956-1957, tropical version of the 1957 model with a low-valve engine;
• GAZ-M-21D - 1957-1958, export version of the 1957 model;
• GAZ-M-21DU 1957-1958, tropical export version of the 1957 model
• GAZ-M-21E - export version of the 1957 model with automatic transmission;
• GAZ-M-21EE - tropical export version of the 1957 model with automatic transmission;
• GAZ-M-21I 1958-1962, 1958 base sedan
• GAZ-M-21K - 1959-1962, export version of the 1958 model;
• GAZ-M-21KB - 1960-1962, car kit for Belgium, model 1958;
• GAZ-M-21KYu 1959-1962, tropical export version of the 1958 model
• GAZ-M-21L - 1962-1964, base sedan model 1962;
• GAZ-M-21M - 1962-1964, export version of the 1962 model;
• GAZ-M-21MU - 1962-1964, tropical export version of the 1962 model;
• GAZ-21N - 1964 - export version of the 1962 model with right-hand drive;
• GAZ-21NYU 1964 - Tropical export version of the 1962 model with right-hand drive;
• GAZ-21P - export version of the 1965 model with right-hand drive;
• GAZ-21PE - export version of the 1965 model with right-hand drive and automatic transmission;
• GAZ-21R - 1965-1970, base sedan model 1965;
• GAZ-21S - 1965-1970, export version of the 1965 model;
• GAZ-21T - 1962-1964, taxi model 1962;
• GAZ-21TS - 1965-1970, taxi model 1965;
• GAZ-21U - 1959 (roughly) -1964, modification with improved design of 1959 and 1962 models;
• GAZ-21US - 1965-1970, modification with improved design of the 1965 model;
• GAZ-21F - experienced with a pre-chamber engine;
• GAZ-21E - 1965-1970, sedan model 1965 with shielded electrical equipment;

The Volga was produced for a long time - an entire era in the history of the country and the world, thanks to which it became an integral part of the urban landscape of socialist countries of the sixties - seventies.

01/01/1967 USSR pilot-cosmonaut Vladimir Komarov washes a car with his daughter Irina.

"Volga" can be seen in almost all Soviet films since 1956. The most famous film in which the GAZ-21 acts practically as a hero is "Beware of the car". And in the fantastic film "Black Lightning" directed by Alexander Voitinsky, this car is able to fly.

Volga GAZ-21 starred in the videos for the songs "Kill The King" by Megadeth, "Du Hast" by Rammstein and "Moonlight Shadow" by Groove Coverage.

Also, due to the combination of appearance, in many ways similar to classic American cars, and widespread distribution, GAZ-21 became the basis for the creativity of hot rodding and customizing fans.

The GAZ-21 is considered a classic oldtimer car, and early and rare modifications are prized as collectible cars. At the same time, a relatively large number of cars are still in daily use, and the considerable total number of cars produced by this brand makes the collection value of most versions of the Volga rather doubtful.

In Russia and in many foreign countries, there are clubs of GAZ-21 fans. Abroad, this car is perceived as one of the symbols of the Russian (Soviet) car industry.

VLADIMIR PUTIN'S CAR

According to available information, Russian President Vladimir Putin owns a GAZ-21 (M-21) of the "second series" (in appearance) of the "ivory" color, rebuilt on modern units. As a donor of aggregates, in particular, the Bentley brand is called. Despite the many times repeated information that it was released in 1956, this fact cannot be true - in fact, experimental cars of this year have not reached our time. According to the traffic police base in Moscow and the region (for 2007), two Volgas were registered for Putin Vladimir Vladimirovich - M-21 1960 and GAZ-21R 1965. The car shown to the press is very similar to the model from 1959-1962. On it, Putin rolled US President George W. Bush. According to available sources, the car has now been transferred to the exhibition at the AvtoVille Museum in Moscow.

1958 GAZ 21 "Volga" - 1 series "Zhukovka"
ICE, gearbox (steering column switch) - native, complete.
Tires - 6, 70-15
Dashboard - native to the 1 series
Chrome, bumpers - native, included.
Deer and native side mirror - also there

On the body, the paint is peeling, but there are no dents (the factory "bone" putty is visible), in general the body geometry is very good.

In the same hands from the moment of acquisition (1958) and up to 2006 until the very death of its owner, a veteran of the Great Patriotic War.
After that, it was reissued to a new plastic registration certificate (until that time it remained the same - a booklet with marks on the passage of the annual MOT).

The car is a real OLDIMER and a rare specimen (1 series is the earliest and smallest model in production).

The car in the Kostanay region. Delivery to your region (Chelyabinsk region) is possible.

In contact with

The Volga GAZ-21 is undoubtedly the symbol of the Khrushchev thaw. The end of the 50s and the beginning of the 60s of the last century were wonderful times of general recovery. The first artificial satellite of the Earth, the first manned flight into space. In those years it seemed that communism was not far off, we would definitely build it soon. Everything worked out, everything was the best. This time can truly be called the "golden age" of the Soviet car industry, when GAZ-21 cars caused genuine pride in their country. The twenty first Volgas were exported to 75 countries of the world.
Skeptics often claim that the "twenty-first" was copied from American cars. Of course, during the development, the experience of foreign manufacturers was widely used. But, nevertheless, "Twenty-first" turned out to be a very original car, albeit built in the spirit of American design of the early 50s. At the same time, she had her own body, one might even say, of the "Soviet school" of autobuilding - bearing, with a front subframe, rigid and massive, narrow and high. In a country where there are two troubles, one of which is roads, this is quite justified. In addition, the "Volga" was included in almost all foreign textbooks on auto design.
"Twenty-first" was very different from previous Soviet cars - excellent panoramic visibility, a huge trunk. A large round clock with the inscription "Made in the USSR" and a three-band radio in a beautiful chrome frame, the gearshift knob on the steering column, and the backrest of the front seat, which it would be more appropriate to call a sofa, recline back, turning the spacious interior into a bedroom.
The interior trim of the then fashionable plastic based on natural ingredients - gelatin, bone meal and lactic acid gave a great originality to the Volga. This is what caused the rapid aging and destruction of almost edible plastic. But in its original form, it perfectly imitated ivory!
GAZ-21 was produced for almost 14 years. During this time, its appearance has gone through two major upgrades. The result was three outwardly slightly different cars, which were popularly given apt nicknames.
Cars produced from October 1956 to November 1958 were subsequently named "first series" (or "first release", or "Volga" with a star ").
The story of the appearance of the "Volga" with a star is interesting. " In the summer of 1955, at the Kremlin demonstration, three prototypes returned from a test run were received by the USSR Minister of Defense, Marshal Georgy Konstantinovich Zhukov. "Twenty-first" could not but impress Zhukov - absolutely new, impetuous, spacious, elegant. Just a beauty! But the marshal did not like the chrome stamped grille for the radiator grille, reminiscent of a shark's grin. He said: "Redo, two weeks ..." and left. A dispatch with literal text flew to the car factory. And since no one knew what exactly Zhukov wanted to see instead of the rejected radiator grill, the factory designer Lev Eremeev decided to simply please the marshal. He made a fundamentally new front end - with three horizontal bars in the style of "Ford Mainline", which was at the disposal of the plant, and a round medallion with a five-pointed star in the middle, like on a marshal's chase. Zhukov liked the "Star". And in this form, a year later, GAZ began serial production of Volga cars.
In total, the GAZ-21 of the first series was produced about 27,000 copies, of which 900 with an automatic transmission.

4.9 / 5 ( 19 votes)

GAZ-21 "Volga" is a Soviet passenger car, rear-wheel drive, serving as a middle class sedan. The model was mass-produced at the Gorky automobile plant from 1956 to 1970. The prototype was the Ford Mainline car. In order to conduct detailed studies of its automatic gearbox, the car factory bought a similar machine.

Already at the onset of 1954, they began to build prototypes of cars. They were equipped with an overhead valve power unit, which was an experiment, and there was also a hemispherical combustion chamber and a camshaft chain drive. It is worth mentioning that the latter showed itself not from the best side, therefore it was not allowed for serial production. The entire GAZ range.

Car history

Already in the next year, 1955, or rather on May 3, they began to test 3 cars at the state level. Two of them were with an automatic gearbox and one with a manual gearbox. As a test, the cars were supposed to participate in the race from Moscow to the Crimea and back. As soon as the first tests passed, the plant received permits for the production of drawings, and began to prepare for the release of machines.

The appearance of the GAZ-21 on the domestic automobile market was a real breakthrough. Outwardly, it looked a little like an American car, for there were also "shark fins". The sedan began to be used in various structures, including the KGB.

In October 1956, the debut 3 production vehicles GAZ-21 were released. They had a low-valve power unit bored out to 2.432 liters, the power of which was equal to 65 horses. This modification was marked "21B".

And the next year the car was put on the conveyor. This gave the car its own personal overhead valve powertrain, which increased to 70 horsepower. Until now, the car looks luxurious, despite the decades passed. Today on the road you can find a lot of foreign cars, which is understandable, since it goes everywhere.

However, the car, which embodied power, grace, prosperity and elegance many years ago, has remained the same and still knows how to attract the attention of people. Of course, it is worth recognizing that there are already a considerable number of cars, which are much more powerful, which are much ahead of this Soviet-made car in terms of the technical component.

However, the consumption of this car itself has not met environmental and current standards for a long time, which are associated with the ubiquitous struggle for energy conservation, however, almost every motorist, if he sees such a car on the street, simply cannot help but come up and not “touch” the hood of the car, or stroke roof or pillars. In this article, you can see a photo of the GAZ-21.

Exterior

The appearance of the GAZ-21 car can be called original, looking at its photo. Lev Eremeev, who was then an artist, created not only a unique appearance, which perfectly fit with the fashion of past years, but also changed it over the 14 years that this model was produced.

It is very important that the car cannot be called borrowed, copied or plagiarized. Judging by the photo of the GAZ-21-10, the car corresponded to the fashion that it was in previous years. The car body itself did not receive a single straight line, most of the parts are rounded and curved. This is clearly visible in the photo.

GAZ-21 third series

The uniformity between episodes reached 100%. Now it is possible to change the decor, using only the file in the right places, so that the details and elements can fit. However, we are talking about the already familiar unchanging massive inflated fenders and a hood with a roundness and a slight hump along.

It is interesting that just this modification received front glass washer nozzles. The side of the car looks a little kurguso, thanks in part to its puffy shape and the sloping line towards the front and rear. Considering all these points, the GAZ-21 can be called a fairly large car.

Enormous embossings, such as can be found on the rear doors and on the fenders, make the car more expressive. On the one hand, it seems as if it is lightning, but if you look differently - the hind legs of a predatory cat. Massiveness is added by the presence of GAZ-21 ground clearance - 1 900 mm. One gets the impression of a kind of off-road vehicle.

This is achieved by using native wide-profile tires, which are much narrower. As mentioned above, the ground clearance is simply amazing. However, if you remember at what time this car was produced, then everything falls into place. At that time, there weren't many roads themselves, to be honest, but it was necessary to pass where today many SUVs simply will not pass.

Chrome will not spoil the Volga, because it is here almost everywhere, and from the factory. It can be found in comfortable door handles with standard grip and with a button. It can also be seen by the small stripes at the bottom of the doors and along the edges of the windows. It is simply impossible not to mention the large saucers of the wheel covers.

Provided from the factory and the presence of export chrome, which was installed only on certain cars. There one could find the waist line of the sill molding, chrome gutter, edging for the windshield, arrows on the fenders and the name "Volga". Side mirrors for rear visibility are absent here, however, as in any series.

Among the distinctive features of the 3rd series, gutters can also be distinguished - here they reach the beginning of the wing, which is not easy to find in the debut and 2nd series. In general, the 3rd series turned out to be the fastest, thanks to its difficult innovative external materials. The rear has a large, prominent luggage compartment with a lid that extends to the top of the bumper.

The lanterns have learned a vertical direction, and can be transferred to any previous modification. They were deprived of the heavy frame, only a thin edging around the edges, made of chrome, remained. The luggage compartment lid itself is not installed in an upright position at a high height, resulting in a forced flexion of the back during unloading and loading.

But this does not in any way negatively affect the implementation of loading luggage into a sufficiently stowed luggage compartment. Allocated space for a spare wheel on the right side, and between the wheel and the trunk wall, you can install tools, which then will be better fixed and will not travel along the entire bottom.

As for the curved starter and rack and pinion jack, their installation does not take up useful space, since there is a place for them from the factory. The bird, which found its place on the luggage compartment lid, inside which there was a button to open that very lid, changed along with other changes.

And yes, it is worth admitting that there are fins here too, which speaks of the American style, but there is no point in saying that the Gorky plant "stole" this idea, because at that time this stylistic solution could be found on many cars, this was fashion.

GAZ-21 of the first generation

The design staff of the GAZ-21 was able to design a car that can attract attention with its original appearance, despite the forty years of "experience". With the help of accurate calculations of the power parts, it was possible to achieve high body strength.

Moreover, the Volga car was distinguished by increased resistance to corrosion with the help of specialized processing of the body by "phosphating". If we talk about the degree of the car body painting itself, then some models do not need to be repainted even today.

Interior

The GAZ 21 salon itself can be described in a few words, without going into details - it is huge, comfortable and quite pleasant. However, you simply will not be able to remain silent about many of its features. Getting into the car without any problems, which is achieved in part by the comfortable door handles.

There is no need to lower your head. When landing, you find yourself on a rather big and soft sofa, which can be seen in the photo. Many already know that this model of the plant has received a single front seat, which, if necessary, is lowered and moved to the steering wheel. If we talk about the seat, then it is quite soft here, thanks to the installation of internal springs.

Front sofa

Nothing binds the body, so you can sit down as you like, because seat belts were not provided even from the assembly line. However, if you move a little closer to the steering wheel, then it will cause a little discomfort, because then they did not know anything about adjusting the steering column. If anything, you can wind the ribs on the steering wheel.

However, there is a nice bonus - the gearbox is controlled using a lever that can be found on the steering wheel. It turns out that even three people can sit in front, because there is no curtain. Seated passengers in front will be quite comfortable, because the legs can be placed where it is convenient.

Speaking of the dashboard, it is only necessary to talk about the famous transparent hemisphere of the speed mode sensor with a pointer arrangement, which stands out up against the general background. There are fuel level indicators and an ammeter, and under them on the left side you can find the setting of air flows, light and stove. A lever for opening the front hood was placed on the floor.

The steering wheel is large and slender, there is a chrome tone up / down button and a small medallion with an exquisite animal. Taking it in hand, you will not say that it is uncomfortable, although it is not as comfortable as that of foreign cars. However, there are some drawbacks here - time passes, and they begin to turn yellow, crack and collapse. It's not so convenient for them to work, but it's a matter of habit.

On the left, behind the steering wheel, there are turn signals, which, of course, do not have automatic return, as well as a lever for switching a mechanical gearbox. They do not have a large size, but it is quite convenient to work with them, there is no need to reach out, everything is near, which, undoubtedly, pleases.

To the right are located water and oil level sensors, an ignition switch and a suction. I was pleased that even in such a car there is a thing unusual for many - a plug. In addition, he is a worker, and the car has a flashlight from the factory, which can be turned on during operation as additional lighting.

The dashboard center also has a native tube radio, which operates in three frequency ranges. Today there is no one to surprise with cruise control, but even in the USSR there was cruise control. The little roundish lever between the ashtray and the lamp radio is manual gas.

After setting the speed, you need to pull the lever towards you and remove your foot from the accelerator pedal - then the GAZ 21 Volga car continues to move on, only you should steer. The massive watch with the proud inscription “Made in the USSR” shows the time since that time.

To bring them down, a mechanism was provided under the torpedo. The glove compartment in the "Volga" turned out to be small. The dashboard in the cars of the debut modifications was not upset by anything from above, which is why the rays of the sun often glinted on the windows, which forced the drivers to paste over the surface with leatherette themselves. Later, they began to cover the surface already from the conveyor.

The salon was so comfortable and spacious, and the sofa was soft that one could even spend the night in the car without any discomfort.

The back row also has a huge seat and a soft landing. There is enough free legroom, three passengers will be able to sit quietly without discomfort. Even the floor transmission tunnel was not that huge and does not stand out much in the cabin. To move around, as well as to make comfortable embarkation and disembarkation of passengers, handrails were provided, fixed behind the front sofa.

Rear sofa

As comfort here, in the second row, you can find only an ashtray. However, such soft sofas and large free space make it possible to use this car as a means for long trips - there is no need for camping or tents, there is a comfortable sleeping place.

All you need is to fold out the front sofa and you can rest. The right B-pillar has a small interior light switch and compact clothes hooks. The luggage compartment was 170 liters of usable space.

Specifications

Power unit

This beauty was equipped with an in-line four-cylinder carburetor power unit ZMZ 21, the volume of which is 2.5 liters. This makes it possible to develop 75 horsepower. Among its features, one can single out the lower shaft system - the camshaft was installed in the lower part of the block, and the valves are operated through specialized rods.

It also has wet cast iron sleeves (and the block itself was made of aluminum) - it does not need boring. All that is needed is to replace the piston group together with the liners. The motor turned out to be quite reliable, it has a negative attitude towards high revs, however, low revs allow it to transport large loads, including a trailer.

The carburetor is named K124, as well as a special window that allows you to find out the amount of fuel inside it. The engine has a lot of appetite. In front of the power unit, a necessary element was installed in winter - blinds. First, on an unheated engine, they need to be closed, then you start it and wait for it to heat up.

After that, it is very important not to forget to open it, otherwise it will just boil, because from the very beginning the car had a water cooling system. The engine consumes about 13.5 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle. The maximum speed is 130 km / h.

Transmission

The developers have synchronized the unusual powertrain along with a 3-speed manual gearbox with a steering wheel-mounted switch. The box has its own moments, such as the lack of a synchronizer for forward and reverse, therefore, a double clutch release was required.

700 cars were released with an automatic transmission, but they could not take root due to the lack of maintenance skills and the fact that there was simply no necessary hypoid oil.

Suspension

They decided to install an independent spring suspension in front. Until 1960, a centralized suspension lubrication system was used, but the latter was very complex and often stains remained on the road section. Therefore, there is a need for frequent lubrication. Also in front you can see the anti-roll bar.

The third series allowed the sedan to have telescopic shock absorbers instead of outdated lever ones. The rear of the car had a dependent suspension with a split axle on longitudinal springs, where there were telescopic shock absorbers. The disadvantage of this bridge is that after the separation of the stockings, it is very difficult to assemble them, mainly to expose the contact patch.

Steering

It was devoid of amplifiers and used an outdated kingpin. The steering column was not adjustable. There was a pendulum mechanism.

Brake system

The brake system is the presence of drum mechanisms, where there is no pedal booster. Do not forget about the parking brake, which is located on the gearbox, as in all past cars.

It is logical that due to this, the cardan transmission is blocked. Not without a fly in the ointment, because when the sedan stands with one wheel on the asphalt, and the second on a wet or slippery surface and uphill, then it can go.

Specifications

Body	4-door sedan (modification of GAZ-22 - 5-door station wagon)
Number of doors	4/5
Number of seats	5
Length	4770 mm
Width	1695 mm
Height	1620 mm
Wheelbase	2700 mm
Front track	1410 mm
Back track	1420 mm
Ground clearance	190 mm
Trunk volume	170 l
Engine location	front longitudinally
engine's type	carburetor, 4-cylinder, with an aluminum block of cylinders and cast iron wet liners, overhead valve
Engine capacity	2432 cm 3
Power	65/3800 l. from. at rpm
Torque	167/2200 N * m at rpm
Valves per cylinder	2
Checkpoint	3-speed with synchronizer for 2nd and 3rd gear
Front suspension	independent lever-spring
Rear suspension	dependent spring
Front brakes	drum
Rear brakes	drum
Fuel consumption	9 l / 100 km
Maximum speed	120 km / h
type of drive	rear
Curb weight	1460 kg
Acceleration 0-100 km / h	34 sec.

Pros and cons

Pros of the car

• High-quality Volga body;
• High corrosion resistance using structural steel phosphating;
• High-quality painting;
• Low cost and ease of interchangeability of elements and parts;
• Pleasant appearance;
• Quite good aerodynamics of the car;
• Not a bad engine;
• High ground clearance;
• A rather large volume of the luggage compartment;
• Spacious salon;
• Comfortable and soft sofa set in front and back;
• There is a radio;
• Quite good dynamic characteristics;
• Soft suspension to swallow most bumps and holes;
• Rich story;
• Application of modern technologies to create a suspension.

Cons of the car

• Outdated engine that has not undergone any changes;
• Most of the design details are simply outdated;
• Large vehicle mass;
• The automatic gearbox didn't catch on;
• Lack of hydraulic boosters in steering and braking mechanisms;
• Unreliable parking brake;
• Unjustified centralized lubrication system;
• Unsuccessful design of a 3-speed manual gearbox;
• There are no seat belts;
• The steering column is not adjustable;
• Small adjustments to the front sofa.

Summing up

After acquaintance with such a "work of art" only pleasant memories remain. If she is capable of being liked today, then it is difficult to imagine how much excitement she caused in 1957. The car had smooth rounded lines and outlines, good looks and popular in those days "shark fins".