Why the Volga died: the story of an ex-employee of GAZ. "Volga" (car): history, models, specifications Volga limited edition

02.09.2019

It was released in 1956, the last one was released in 2010. Volga models were used by ordinary citizens, in taxi services, as official cars in state institutions, some were made specifically for organizations such as the KGB.

Creating a car

The first Volga is the GAZ-21 car, which first rolled off the assembly line in 1956. Even then, he began to constantly use it in cinema, and to this day he can be found in modern films. Over time, many international festivals and exhibitions gave well-deserved awards to cars of this brand. At that time, the car belonged to the premium class, but had an average cost, which made it possible to purchase it even for not very wealthy citizens of the Soviet Union.

Over time, it became clear that the most iconic and at the same time outstanding car is the Volga.

How did the history of the Volga begin?

The Volga car (even the interior of the first models was very convenient and comfortable), after a long period of development, appeared before potential buyers in a relatively updated form. At that time, the design and technical characteristics of its predecessor, Pobeda, fully met the needs of its contemporaries. However, by the 1950s, its design was outdated, and the issue with the engine remained unresolved - it lagged far behind the world's leading units in terms of its characteristics. As a result, the development of a new machine began (this happened in 1953). A year later, the first sample of the Volga rolled off the assembly line. For him, two types of gearboxes were developed - automatic and mechanics.

Technical innovations of that time

Considering the technical characteristics of the Volga car (the review of the car is more focused on its general changes), you can see that among the interesting nuances there is a CSS. Thanks to the lubrication system, when you press a certain pedal, the oil is directed to the oil lines. The fact is that, being in a rural area, where there is basically one continuous off-road, the driver often cut off some suspension elements. The CSS helped to prevent such unpleasant moments. However, one of the significant disadvantages of the system was that it leaked, leaving traces of oil on the pavement. Over time, the use of CSS was abandoned.

GAZ-23

It so happened historically that almost all the authorities of the state of the USSR drove the Volga. Some specifications did not meet their requirements. Therefore, the manufacturer took into account every comment, as a result of which the produced Volga models experienced strong changes. By 1962, a 160-horsepower unit taken from the Seagull was installed on new machines. The automatic transmission and hydraulic booster were put in a special one that was not available to an ordinary resident of the country. This is due to the fact that the KGB became the customer of this model. The car weighed 100 kg more than the base version. Its maximum speed is 160 km/h. Up to 100 km / h, the car accelerated in just 16 seconds. There were no changes in the braking system.

GAZ-21: first series

"Volga", the car of the first series, was produced for two years. In 1956, the first three samples of the car rolled off the assembly line. Until the end of the same year, only 5 copies were produced. Only in 1957 did large-scale production begin.

The number of models of the Volga brand, cars of the first series, for all the years of production reached 30 thousand copies. The Volga with a Star has not reached our days in its original configuration, most of the surviving cars are already in the second or third series. This explains the demand and high fee for such a rarity.

The most noticeable feature of this series is that the instrument panel is equipped somewhat unusually - it was not finished with spraying or any material. In this state, she arrived until 1958. Some models did not have a monochromatic color, but this equipment cost a little more.

GAZ-21: second series

Cars that were produced from 1958 to 1959 are popularly called "transitional", and those that were born in 1959-1962. - second series. The next generation Volga models had more external changes than internal ones. The wings took on a different shape due to the increase in the dimensions of the wheel arches. In principle, if you look closely, you can see that the design of the GAZ-21 began to resemble the prototype of the 55th year. It cannot be said that the modernization of the car was completely stopped, but the changes were minor and frivolous - the technical characteristics did not change, the appearance of the interior remained the same.

Reflectors, an updated instrument panel and other innovations appeared only closer to 1959. If you count all the models that were released (and all the configurations), then we can say for sure that more than 140 thousand copies left the assembly line.

GAZ-21: third series

The manufacturer did not consider it a rational decision to carry out restyling of the first generation, so the car appeared before the viewer in a slightly transformed version. The characteristics of the "Volga" practically did not change - only the bumpers, the bodywork became changed, some finishing elements were added.

Over time, the appearance of the car has undergone significant changes. Models referred to as the “third series” began to roll off the assembly line after 1962, and they no longer resembled the original version.

The appearance of the car was constantly modernized, but the manufacturer did not forget about the technical side either. Gradually, the unit became more powerful, the banal lever shock absorbers were replaced with telescopic ones, and the version with automatic transmission was discontinued.

GAZ-24: first series

A feature of the first series of the Volga GAZ-24 was the bumper, which had a chrome-plated number table, bodies, lights with rear reflectors, sofa seats, consisting of 3 parts, doors, or rather their panels, with a pattern in a vertical position, a dashboard in black, covered with leather substitute.

The manufacturer constantly subjected the car to some minor changes, for example, by 1975 the car lost the clutch in automatic mode to activate the fan (due to unstable operation). A little later, the rear mirror became a slightly different shape, the trunk was equipped with a more reliable and comfortable lock, the tape speedometer was replaced with a standard dial one.

GAZ-24: second series

The car "Volga" GAZ-24 was subjected to major changes during 1976-1978. The release of the machine with these modifications can be called the release of the second series.

Bumpers of the new generation received "fangs", headlights suitable for driving in foggy places, lights with reflectors. The interior has also undergone changes. The metal elements, which in one way or another posed a threat to the health of passengers, were covered with a protective plastic overlay, a drawing appeared on the doors in a horizontal orientation. The manufacturer added static straps, as a result of which the armrests had to be removed. The seats received a new (improved) upholstery in the GAZ-24 models. Volga, the second generation car, was produced for several years - until 1985.

GAZ-24: third series

The release of the third series was marked by new upgrades, which were more radical and significant. The next generation of the car - GAZ-24-10 - appeared on the market in the mid-1980s.

This time, the manufacturer found it necessary to gradually introduce new items. The process of complete change took place from the 1970s, when it was changed until 1987. By the last year, an updated sedan was already being produced, which combined several designs of previous versions of Volga cars at once. The car acquired the name (unofficial) GAZ-24M.

The third series included not only the model described above, but also the GAZ-2410. This option was used to discuss public institutions: hospitals, schools, etc. It was developed almost from 1976, while it was implemented only by 1982. In fact, after some time it became clear that this model would become the ancestor of new cars under the name "Volga". The car was produced until 1992 and then was replaced by an almost similar assembly, but under the name GAZ-31029. The difference between them was only in the type of unit and the shape of the body.

Who does not know the Volga? Everyone knows the Volga! The car of the middle class belongs to the Gorky Automobile Plant and is a successful modernization of the Volga line of representative cars popular in the USSR. Produced from 1997 to 2004, it replaced the GAZ-31029 car. Having expanded the production of new components to the fullest, in 1996 the management thought about creating a new Volga.

Wedge-shaped cars were popular in the 80s, but now they are obsolete. A very ambitious task was set - to direct the market of domestic middle-class cars in the right direction. It was decided to develop a new interior and body for cars in accordance with the fashion trends of the 90s. The result of all this was the GAZ-3110 car. The entire range of GAZ.

Appearance

At one time, the designers did not make a single mistake with the car body. There is nothing to criticize and it is difficult to praise him. Time could not affect the Volga - only the shape of lighting equipment and bumpers, the configuration of the hood and wings changed from year to year. Probably because the core and skeleton of the GAZ-24 were created back in the 60s. They essentially tied the hands of the engineers of the Gorky plant.

One "but" - the body does not differ even in the initial immunity against rust and is covered with it already in the first years of use. So if you are planning to buy a GAZ-3110, we recommend starting road development ... with a trip to the service station, where your car will be given anti-corrosion treatment. Volga-3110 was produced not only as a sedan, but also as a station wagon.

The first option had nice taillights, while the station wagon was no different from the GAZ-24. When model 31105 appeared, the Gorky Automobile Plant stopped producing station wagons. If you turn your attention to the side of the "Volga" 3110, then it almost does not differ from the model 31029.

Here you can see all the same doors, almost unchanged wings installed in front. The changes did not affect the front optics. The appearance of the hood of the 3110, of course, received slightly different contours, but still, without any improvements, the body element was installed on the “29th”. But already the "tenth" model received a fundamentally different rear body part.

Here you can already find a different trunk lid, taillights, a rear bumper and a more rounded roof. The headlights installed in front were decided to remain the same, but the rear ones received a completely different wording.

The new Volga 3110 already had 15-inch rims, while the 31029 had 14-inch ones. Since 2000, instead of black thermoplastic bumpers, the company began to produce voluminous bumpers, which were painted in the color of the sedan.

Interior

Firstly, it was the Volga that became the first Russian passenger car, where they began to install a hydraulic booster. Secondly, it is worth noting a very extensive pedal assembly. When you ride in winter shoes, and even with wide soles, be sure to remember this article. Well, if you read the reviews of the owners of the GAZ-3110, you will find out that the Stary Oskol gasoline pump is incredibly loud. This, of course, is a minus.

Now about pluses. The rear sofa is so wide that even four passengers can easily fit on it. The trunk has a low loading height, which makes it much easier to stack heavy loads in the GAZ-3110.

Of course, the designers tried to modernize the archaic control keys, the same gearbox and uninformative steering wheel. Something turned out well, something not so good - let each driver draw his own conclusions.

Inside, too, it has become a little better. The dashboard has changed and began to look more modern and better. The panel was made of plastic, which could be painted gray or black - other color variations were not provided at the factory. They changed the steering wheel, which became more compact.

Between the seats installed in front, they began to install an armrest, where there was a mini-bar for the safety of various small things. Also, the design staff was able to make the ceiling lighting “more fashionable”. Inside it began to install fluorescent lamps.

Specifications

And here changes - the cat cried. Sitting behind the wheel of a GAZ-3110, you understand that the car was designed for "very strong Russian men", the severity of which reaches the 80th level. We will not hide the obvious: the car consumes fuel not like a child, requires frequent maintenance, which is quite expensive, the suspension and ride are downright “steamboat”, poor sound insulation, etc. The GAZ 3110 can be modified with a very good 2.3-liter ZMZ engine with a power 150 HP The standard modification involves the use of a 2.5-liter carburetor engine with a capacity of only 70 hp. Diesel Volga are quite rare.

Photo of the engine Volga - 3110

Occasionally, under the massive hood of the GAZ-3110, you can find a 2.1-liter diesel engine with a capacity of 95 horses. In conclusion, we add that a 5-speed mechanics was installed on the GAZ-3110. In 2003, the gearbox was finalized, and it became much easier to switch gears. Before that, the transition from 4th to 2nd looked like an episode from a horror movie.

power unit

The Gorky plant produced 3 types of power units for the 3110 model as usual:

ZMZ-402 with a carburetor system (or derated ZMZ 4021);
ZMZ-406 with fuel injection system;
GAZ-560 with diesel fuel (model with a turbocharged engine GAZ 5601).

Almost no cars were assembled with a GAZ 560 diesel engine under the Steyer license (no more than 200 tons of cars per year). Initially, the production of cars with the already well-tested time and mileage of the ZMZ-402 unit was predominantly going on. Consumers looked at the brand new 406 with distrust, and cars that were equipped with it were usually reluctant to purchase. Over time, power units with an injection system replaced the already outdated carburetor internal combustion engines. By 2003, ZMZ 4062.10 (full model name) became an exceptional engine that was installed in the Gorky 3110 car.

Engine ZMZ-402

ZMZ 402, in fact, was a modernization of the ZMZ-24 power unit. In the constructive sphere, he was the same along with his previous model. But by the end of the 1990s, the engine had already become obsolete even in moral terms and had its drawbacks - low efficiency and weak dynamics.

Vehicles on which the 402nd internal combustion engine was installed consumed a large amount of fuel, which mainly manifested itself at high loads and high speeds. Deficiencies often appeared with oil consumption - it simply flowed from the rear main oil seal, there was a waste through the piston rings.

"Synthetics" or "semi-synthetics" were not used for the crankcase of the power unit, because its consumption then only increased, and besides everything, this oil was more valuable than mineral oil. Due to low-quality oil, soot appeared on many engine parts. However, ZMZ 402 had its advantages. For example, it was easy to repair, spare parts had a low cost. It was also distinguished by the availability of spare parts, which could be purchased at almost every automotive store.

GAZ-3110 engine

When the 402nd replaced the ZMZ 406th, many were frightened by its complexity, but it also had its advantages. The engine turned out to be quite powerful and had good dynamics. In addition, he almost did not consume oil and was more economical on gasoline. But, as they say, it was not without a fly in the ointment. The engine was overheating due to a poor quality cooling system. Often, it was because of this that the cylinder head stopped working well, and the price tag of this element is not cheap. The spare parts of the ZMZ 406th could not be called of high quality, sometimes there could even be defective parts, and the resource of certain elements was limited. Drivers complain of frequent tapping of hydraulic expansion joints, rapid wear of shoes and dampers of the gas distribution mechanism, as well as chain stretching. The disadvantages include the generator, which could nurse only 25,000 - 40,000 kilometers.

Specifications

Brand and modification	Engine capacity	Power	Transmission	Various up to 100km/h, s.	Max speed km/h
GAZ 3110 2.0	1996 cm3	136 HP	mechanics 5th grade	11.0	180
GAZ 3110 2.1	2134 cm3	110 HP	mechanics 5th grade	14.0	170
GAZ 3110 2.3	2286 cm3	150 HP	mechanics 5th grade	13.5	175
GAZ 3110 2.4	2445 cm3	100 HP	mechanics 5th grade	19.0	147
GAS 3110T 2.4	2445 cm3	100 HP	mechanics 5th grade	19.0	147
GAZ 3110 2.5 i	2445 cm3	150 HP	mechanics 5th grade	13.5	173

Transmission

On the Volga 3110, a four and five-speed manual gearbox was installed, moreover, both were also introduced on the GAZ 31029. They were distinguished only by the fact that the 3110 box itself contained a speedometer gear with a different gear ratio.

A 4-speed gearbox went into a car only with a 402 engine, and a five-speed gearbox was more often in a car with a ZMZ 406 engine. In the 2000s, a 4-speed manual gearbox was no longer installed on cars, and it could only be bought for spare parts .

The year 2005 made it possible to switch to the 31105 car with a 5-speed manual gearbox, in which they began to introduce improved synchronizers, brass shifting bushes and a 5th speed with an increased gear ratio. Such introductions of new technologies have made it possible to shift gears more smoothly and move at an increased top speed.

Characteristics of the five-speed box 3110

Like any kind of box, the 3110 had its own inherent disadvantages and advantages. If not at all, then on almost every five-speed box, 1st and 2nd gears were a little tight. You can get used to this over time, but you should pay attention to one nuance.

In winter, if there is oil for summer time in the box, then the speeds will turn on very hard, especially if you have not warmed up the engine yet. Sometimes this can lead to failure of the gearshift lever. To prevent this from happening, in winter, it is necessary to pour synthetic oil into the box for winter time and, of course, of good quality.

Clutch

On the ZMZ 402 and ZMZ 406 power units, the clutch is not installed the same, and it will not work to change one to the other, although it is worth recognizing that the clutch disc from the 402nd is suitable for the 406th. Initially, the ZMZ 406 was produced with a disc from the ZMZ-402 engine, but it is slightly smaller in lining diameter.

Its mileage often did not exceed 30,000 km, and based on this, the manufacturer produced a brand new disk specially for the 406th, which was now reinforced. He was able to carry heavy loads.

Now it was not a pawl clutch basket that was installed, but a petal one. Such a system made it possible to carry out the squeeze more smoothly, and at the same time, the basket did not need settings and adjustments.

Brake system

The brake system on the new car already had an improved character. On the suspension mounted in front, there were discs and calipers - a similar arrangement was used only on the GAZ-3102. The drums that were at the back were already mounted in a slightly compact manner.

With the help of such innovations, it turned out to provide smooth braking and the need to sharply press the brake pedal came to naught. Drivers who switched from the 24th to the 29th needed some time to get used to different braking. After a while, they were able to fully appreciate the merits of the improvements.

rear axle

If we compare the GAZ-31029 and the new model 3110, then it has acquired a modernized rear axle. It would not be superfluous to recall that on the 24th models and the debut releases of 31029, a split rear axle was installed, where there was a gear ratio of 4.1, and the axle body was divided into a couple of parts.

After that, a modernized axle was used on a later production sedan, which had a one-piece body and the main pair was already installed with a high-speed one - instead of a pair with a number of teeth 41/10, the automobile plant installed pairs 39/10.

The gear ratio has been changed to 3.9. Therefore, the “ten” acquired just the same bridge with an almost similar body. In appearance, the cases were similar, but they were not interchangeable due to several design differences. The main difference is the axles.

Crash test

Hybrid III dummies, which had calibrated sensors, were seated in the front seats. They were wearing basic seat belts. After dispersing the car with a catapult, GAZ rushed to the barrier.

The installation of sensors on dummies made it possible to fix the speed during the collision - 63.3 km/h. After the workers descended from the balcony, where those wishing to watch what was happening, they were pleasantly surprised and less optimistic.

Not taking into account the speed of impact and a small overlap ratio (64 km / h instead of 50), the deformation of the body itself was able to remain almost the same. There is a crease on the roof, the pillar that serves to support the windshield has shifted back by 50 millimeters.

The steering column was shifted back and up, but less than in a collision from a speed of 50 km / h. However, the bottom of the GAZ 3110 during such a collision was folded in large zigzags. The floor collapsed under the driver's feet. Moreover, the seams of the body, which were welded, simply parted, they were torn from the sidewall.

If you take slow motion, you can see that during the collision, after the first hit of the head on the steering wheel, there is another, more powerful one - the dummy collided with its nose on the plastic cover of the steering wheel hub. After hitting the head, a good dent was left on the metal plate. If there was a living person, fears for his health were considerable.

The headrest completely flew out, not protecting the person's head from tipping back. Moreover, the very fact that he jumped out of his seat and flies around the cabin (and this is for a second a headrest with a pair of protruding metal pins) is very scary. The load on the chest of a person from the seat belt was even lower than the dangerous level allows.

As a result, the Volga 3110 car received only two out of 16 possible safety points. Therefore, security is still worth working and working on. In a head-on collision, the fact that the Volga has a long front gives it a plus. But everything could be better if the spar was designed for energy absorption and did not break.

Options and prices

4,000-5,000 US dollars - that's how much they ask today for a running, but well-groomed car. Well, you can buy such a car in any, not even in a very large city of the former USSR.

The modest cost of the Volga is compensated by the rather high costs of its operation. For example, only GAZ-3110 gasoline “eats” twice as much as the same one.

Modifications

GAZ 3110 cars to this day function as taxi cars;
Version of the station wagon GAZ-310221 on the GAZ-3110 platform. Apart from the restyled front end, the car is distinguished from the distant older brother only by a plastic bumper mounted at the back. It is not the first year that the deflector and vertical lamps installed at the back retain their appearance;
An ambulance standard for GAZ on the platform of a GAZ-310223 passenger car was able to compete with its own Gazelle in the last decade of the twentieth century. Among the advantages of this car are much smaller sizes, not so expensive prices for parts and good maintainability.

The debut car GAZ 31105 left the plant in Gorky in 2004. To this day, many cannot understand whether it is necessary to consider 31105 a brand new car or classify it as 3110. However, in fact, 31105 is a deeply modernized variation of 3110. The car received many upgrades.

Among them, one can single out the changed appearance of the nose of the car, where there are teardrop-shaped headlights, a modified radiator grille with a hood shape, other front wings installed, upgraded bumpers and modified mirrors, which have become even more voluminous.

GAZ-31105

The interior has also been modernized. He began to have a new control unit for the heating system. Such a mechanism is not the cheapest, which is why thieves could often steal it from the car. The rear suspension received a stabilizer.

The luggage compartment lid already had a brand new lock. On the front suspension, they began to use the pivotless method, where there were already ball bearings. In the appearance of the sedan, the doors were changed, which they began to have brand new door handles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Machine advantages

The most spacious interior among domestic cars;
Quite a powerful power unit;
Large luggage compartment;
Power steering wheel;
High ground clearance;
Large turning radius of wheels;
The considerable mass of the car allows you to feel more confident on the road;
Ability to transport heavy and oversized cargo;
Availability of spare parts.

Cons of the car

Build quality;
Problems with the operation of the gearbox;
High fuel consumption;
Constant frequency of breakdowns;
An unimportant stove;
Safety;
The steering wheel is not adjustable;
Low level of comfort in the cabin;
Poor interior.

Summing up

The GAZ-3110 has many disadvantages, but the car is clearly not deprived of advantages either. These include the excellent maintainability of the Volga, ease of maintenance and the availability of most spare parts. GAZ-3110 is a large and very comfortable car, which, although it has Soviet charisma, will take its rightful place in the garage of any motorist.

GAZ, or Gorky Automobile Plant, is one of the oldest Soviet-Russian enterprises and, one might say, was the ancestor of the automotive industry in the Soviet Union. The name "Volga", which unites all models of passenger cars produced at the GAZ plant since 1956, is widely known both in Russia and abroad. Over the 60 years of production, the Volga car models have experienced

Central entrance to the GAZ automobile plant

serious technical transformation, but even now they remain cars that have their loyal fans among generations of Russian motorists.

The historical beginning, the event that served as the basis for the emergence of a whole class of Volga cars, was in 1956 the "birth" of the legendary GAZ-21 car.

Appearance GAZ 21

At the time of its development, this machine was a unique creation, not inferior to the world analogue, but by the time of its serial production in 1956, that is, two years after the release of the first prototype, it had already become somewhat old-fashioned compared to Western models.

However, this did not detract from its original technical solutions included in the basic package.

Volga 21 became the successor to the GAZ M-20, or Pobeda, in the Soviet automotive industry, and initially had the factory designation M-21, only in 1964 it began to be called the familiar GAZ-21.

Among the technical innovations of this model are the following:

Pivot front suspension.

Aluminum engine with "wet" liners.

Hydraulic clutch drive with suspension pedal.
Increased rigidity of the body, resistant to corrosion.
A centralized lubrication system, removed from the car in the future due to the poor quality of consumables.
An automatic hydromechanical gearbox, which also did not take root in mass production.
Hypoid silent bridge.
Cardan transmission with a central support.

All this provided the Volga 21 with excellent driving performance both on paved roads and off-road areas, long-term operation of the car and comfortable conditions for the driver and passengers.

This is how the GAZ 21 salon looks like

External and internal design were also the pride of the developers. The design of the car was an attempt to reflect the idea of Russian identity, combined with elements of Soviet modernism. A feature of the external appearance of the car was a one-piece stamped chrome grille with vertical slots.

GAZ "Volga" 21 was the leader in the Soviet market until the mid-70s, although it seemed somewhat cumbersome and conservative compared to the "Moskvich" and "Zhiguli".

The basic GAZ-21 model has been constantly improved both from the technical side and based on targeted consumer tasks. For the entire time of serial production, there were more than 30 of its modifications.

The last car "Volga" 21 left the assembly line in 1970, giving way to new developments.

The GAZ-22 model was produced for eight years from 1962 to 1970 and supplemented the GAZ-21 line with a cargo-passenger vehicle. The main purpose of the release of this car was to provide transport for the ambulance service, and the plant had to make significant losses in order to fulfill this state order.

GAZ-23 - a car for special agents

This Volga model was developed by special order of the state security agencies and was the most advanced car at that time. It combined all the most advanced developments with a comfortable and ergonomic interior.

It looks like GAZ 23

Among the features of GAZ Volga 23, the following technical innovations can be distinguished:

5.5 liter V-shaped engine.

- Three-speed automatic transmission.
- Reinforced body.
- An improved brake system with special drums, brake pads with increased wear resistance and the use of original brake fluid.

- Modified suspension with reinforced front springs and thicker metal rear springs.
- Upgraded exhaust system through the installation of two mufflers and exhaust pipes.
- Changing the main pair of the rear axle with a reduced gear ratio.
- Installing an additional battery.

The introduction of these changes in the design provided the car with unprecedented speed qualities for those times, high acceleration dynamics, as well as improved maneuverability and controllability on the road.

The car was produced from 1962 to 1970 and was carefully classified. Only a few copies have survived to this day, randomly avoiding mandatory destruction after decommissioning.

GAZ-24: simple and reliable

The Volga 24 became an evolutionary continuation of the GAZ-21 and was launched into serial production in 1967, although its development began already in 1958.

It took about ten years for the designers to implement the design of the machine, which would meet both the requirements of the time and good operational and consumer characteristics.

Several experimental designs of the new car were assembled, which differed fundamentally from each other in the installed motor units of various types. After test trials, a car with an improved four-cylinder engine went into production. Other prototypes were later used as prototypes for the production of single and export options.

appearance of the GAZ 24 cabin

The new design solutions were:

Separate circuits of the brake system with a hydraulic vacuum booster.
Forged front beam and rear steering linkage with articulated mechanism.
Carburetor of a new two-chamber type.

Four-speed gearbox.
New design for interior heating and rear window defroster.
Improved parking brake system.
Curved side windows.
Wheels 14-inch diameter.

These changes allowed the new car to become quite competitive and buyable.

The original design, of course, had its drawbacks, which were eliminated as its modifications were developed.

In 1985, the mass production of these machines was discontinued.

GAZ-3102 - a new series of cars

This model was conceived as a full-fledged GAZ-24 receiver, and its development began almost immediately with the start of production of 24 Volga. However, as a result, by 1981, for various reasons, this idea was transformed into the production of a car for government officials. The car was produced in small batches, but its production lasted 27 years and was discontinued only in 2009.

Among the main technological innovations are the following:

Pre-chamber torch ignition.
Staged air injection system.
New block design using steel elements.
Updated carburetor with semi-automatic injection system.
Modified four-speed manual transmission.
Adding a voltage regulator to the brake system.

These innovations made it possible to improve the driving and speed characteristics of the new model while reducing fuel consumption and the proportion of carbon monoxide in exhaust gases.

The GAZ-3102 salon has also changed significantly and has become more comfortable for the driver. The headrests of the seats appeared, and the instrument panel became more ergonomic.

The history of the development of the GAZ-3102 was thoroughly saturated with both political intrigues and factors of the transition period in the country's economy.

view in the cabin GAZ 3102

Therefore, its design was constantly undergoing changes, adjusting to the emerging market economy. Over the entire period, cars were adapted to engines from different manufacturers, which forced them to make changes to body parts, as well as to other main components.

The car began to be in mass demand already in the 2000s, for the most part due to its “bureaucratic” reputation.

Simultaneously with the release of 3102, other Volga models of the 31st series were developed and produced, so the removal of 32102 from the assembly line was natural.

GAZ-31029 - affordable car

This car was an intermediate option in the entire GAZ line and was produced for only five years, from 1992 to 1997. In fact, 31029 is a continuation of the 24 Volga line, and the changes affected mostly the body, which was replaced by a body from 3102.

GAZ-31029 can be called a commercial vehicle, since its release fell on the years of perestroika, and the increased demand for cars of this class has increased dramatically. The mass production and sales of this machine were, on the one hand, a great help to the plant, but, on the other hand, seriously reduced its reputation in the market. This was due to the fact that against the backdrop of a large number of cars, quality requirements were reduced.

Nevertheless, significant profits from sales of this affordable model allowed the plant to reorganize production, adapt to new market conditions and launch more interesting models.

GAZ-3110 - a new car for everyone

The Volga 3110 was developed as an improved design for the mass consumer car and became the successor to the 31029 in this niche. Its release was launched in 1997 and continued until 2005.

Steel design features:

Power steering and modified steering gear.
Disc brakes on the front wheels.
Cardan shaft, providing intermediate support, and continuous rear gear.

The painting of the car began to be carried out using two-component paints, which increased the resistance of the body to corrosion.

Among the modifications, one can single out a cargo-passenger model, for the most part designed for medical needs, and a car with a turbodiesel engine, which was produced in very small batches.

In connection with reaching the planned capacity of the assembly line for the new model, 3110 was discontinued.

Each of us has heard more than once about such a car as the Volga. The history of the car "Volga" originates in the distant 56th year. It was then that at the Gorky Automobile Plant the question arose of creating a fundamentally new car. It is worth noting that now the history of the Volga car does not end. These machines are still mass-produced. Well, let's look at what the Volga (car) is. The history of the model and review are further in our article.

How it all began: GAZ-21

The prototype for the first Volga model was the legendary Pobeda, the GAZ M-20. The car at that time had an advanced design and good technical characteristics. But closer to the 50s, it was noticeably bypassed by foreign competitors. There was a need to create a fundamentally new car, which became the GAZ-21. The car received an "Americanized" design and a new aggregate filling. The well-known artist Lev Yeremeev was involved in the development of the appearance. It was he who applied the world trends of auto fashion in recent years. So, the appearance of the car had "rocket-space" motives.

As a result, the GAZ-21 received a rather expressive appearance, very modern and dynamic at that time. The car was produced not only for the domestic market. Many models were exported. After all, the car immediately became the leader of international exhibitions. About the Volga - a car that turned out really great - they began to say that it was the first premium car, not for ordinary Soviet citizens. And so it happened. At a time when ordinary people drove Zhiguli and Muscovites, only the ranks of the party leadership got the Volga. It was also used by the KGB.

Technical features of the "twenty-first"

It is worth noting that the new car "Volga" (GAZ-21) was equipped with both manual and automatic transmissions with shifting "at the helm". Both transmissions were three-speed. On the first copies, the main gear of the gearbox was not hypoid, but conical. The car was equipped with an independent front suspension and lever hydraulic shock absorbers. Behind - a classical spring suspension bracket. As for the engine, a 2.4-liter gasoline unit with 70 horsepower was installed here. The maximum torque was 17 kgf at 4 thousand revolutions. At that time, the Volga (GAZ-21 car) had good dynamic characteristics. It became a cult classic, especially after the release of the film "Beware of the car". But the story of the Volga does not end there.

GAZ-24

Years passed, the automotive industry developed, and the car required changes. So, the engineers began to create a new model of the Volga (although the 21st was constantly being finalized during production). The legendary "twenty-four" appeared in 1967. Serial production of the machine did not stop until the 85th year.

The design of the car has improved markedly. The machine is made according to all the canons of the 60s. "Volga" was distinguished by a long wheelbase and the widest body. It is worth noting that a chrome grille was installed on the first "twenty-fours". Then it was replaced with a black plastic one. The rest of the design lines (including optics) did not change until the end of the model's production. A distinctive feature of the new GAZ-24 is reliability, durability and smooth running. The car seems to float on the road. This feature haunted her until the present. True, there was a drawback. Due to such a soft suspension, the Volga (GAZ-24 car) was very rolled. Owner reviews say that she is clumsy. In the conditions of a modern city, it is very difficult to ride it because of its large dimensions.

Technical innovations "twenty-four"

The 24-ki had a significantly improved aggregate part. So, instead of a three-speed box, a fully synchronized 4-speed transmission was installed here. Since the car was heavy, the brakes were also improved in the new model. Now they came with a hydraulic vacuum booster and an automatic "loop" separator. The suspension of the car has also been upgraded. The front is a forged beam and rubber-metal hinges. It is worth noting that such a suspension scheme was used on all subsequent Volga and even switched to GAZelle. Owner reviews note the high reliability of this suspension. The beam, due to its simple design, does not require significant maintenance. The only thing the car needs is to carry out the injection of the pivots, and even then, once a year.

The oven has also been upgraded. Now there is a glass blowing at the rear, and deflectors were located in front with the ability to adjust the direction of the air.

Modification 24-10

A few years later, the standard Volga was slightly modified at the Gorky Automobile Plant. The car began to be equipped with a different, more powerful engine. A delivery was arranged from the Zavolzhsky Motor Plant. So, modification 24-10 began to be equipped with a ZMZ-402 power unit with a capacity of 100 horsepower. Previously, the 2401 motor was used here, which produced 85 horsepower. It is worth noting that it was a derated engine - it is designed for the consumption of gasoline with an octane rating of A-76. ZMZ-402 is designed for 92nd gasoline. The modification received many improvements. So, for the first time, a contactless ignition system was used here, the design of the steering wheel, dashboard and door handles changed. Externally, this modification can be recognized by the black plastic grille.

The machine was mass-produced until 1992. By this time, it was considerably outdated. Foreign competitors greatly outperformed 24-10 in all respects. Therefore, in the 92nd year, it was decided to remove the old model from the assembly line. The Volga 31029 became the successor.

GAZ-31029

What was different about this "Volga"? The car first of all acquired a more modern design (the first GAZelle was then created from it). The front and rear optics were changed in the car, a new radiator grille and bumper were installed. The side windows have now lost the chrome-plated edging windows. Nevertheless, the silhouette remained the same - the same "twenty-four". Serially model 31029 was produced from the 92nd to the 97th year. The car was often used as a taxi. And here for the first time "Volga" has lost the status of the former standard of luxury and comfort. With the release of GAZ-31029, the model was significantly cheaper.

The technical part remains the same. The car was equipped with the same 402 engine. In those days, the Gorky plant collapsed, because there were times of perestroika. The management decided to create the cheapest possible car for the population (so to speak, take quantity, not quality).

In the 90s, a certain layer of Nizhny Novgorod tuning companies formed, which were engaged in improving the technical characteristics of the standard Volga. So, improvements were made by replacing standard units (engine, suspension) with components from imported cars. In addition, these companies were engaged in the installation of air conditioning systems and servo drives on a regular Volga 31029.

In the 95th year, a 4-cylinder engine from Rover with 136 horsepower and an automatic four-speed gearbox were installed on this car. A year later, samples with a 3.9-liter engine from the Land Rover Discovery were born. Such a Volga developed up to 185 horsepower. Japanese engines from Toyota Crosses and Crown were also installed. A large engine compartment gave a wide potential for tuning the Volga. But these were very rare specimens.

GAZ-3110

Toward the end of the 90s, the Gorky Plant managed to overcome the crisis. So, a new model of the Volga, the GAZ-3110, was born.

The car has acquired a more modern look. Many elements of the body have been modified. For the first time, the car received painted bumpers (although the first versions also came with black plastic). Alloy wheels were included. Improved level of equipment. So, the 3110 model was the first of the Volga, which used a hydraulic power steering, factory air conditioning and power windows.

In addition to the hydraulic booster, an electric headlight corrector and disc brakes on the front axle were regularly installed here. The car was the first to use lower profile tires (195 by 65 with a diameter of 15 inches). Structurally, the model was distinguished by the presence of a new steering gear, a cardan shaft with an intermediate support and a continuous rear axle. Was in this "Volga" and dual-mode rear window heating, as well as an oil cooler. For the first time, the manufacturer used a new body painting technology (at the Hayden-2 complex). A two-component metallic enamel was used.

This was a significant step forward for the Volga car. What machine of domestic production at that time had a similar "package" of equipment? AvtoVAZ started this much later. Nevertheless, the build quality of the Volga was not particularly impressive, according to motorists' reviews. The plastic on the bumpers could not withstand high temperatures and began to melt in the summer. There was also no soundproofing inside. There were no airbags either. The quality of the finish was mediocre, at the level of cheap foreign cars. The car could not withstand tough everyday use - the body quickly rotted (despite the use of a new priming technology), interior elements and seats were erased. Now it is quite difficult to find 3110 in good condition. How much does such a "Volga" (car) cost? The price for it is from 1.5 to 3 thousand dollars (since the model is no longer mass-produced).

About the motor on 3110

One of the significant improvements is the engine. The line was replenished with a new power unit - ZMZ-406. Such a motor was also installed on the GAZelle. The engine was distinguished by an electronic ignition angle control system and the presence of two camshafts. This engine was the first on the Volga with a fuel injection system. The car began to consume less fuel. Passport indicators are 11 and a half liters in the combined cycle.

Modification 3102 and its features

Separately, it is worth mentioning the modification 3102. This Volga was mass-produced for the longest time - from the 81st to 2009. It was the “twenty-four” that served as the basis for it. The GAZ-3102 family also included the legendary “catch-up” with a 195 horsepower V8 engine.

Paired with this unit, an automatic transmission worked (the same was installed on the 13th Chaika). Initially, the 3102 was produced in limited quantities on a separate production line. This machine was intended for state institutions and the link of party leaders. The characteristic "director's" status was preserved in the appearance of the "Volga". Model 3102 has strict body lines and a massive grille. ZMZ-402 and 406 were used here as a power unit. Since 2008, a new injection motor ZMZ-405 has been installed on the car. He developed a power of 152 horsepower with a working volume of 2.5 liters. Also, the car was equipped with an exhaust gas converter and complied with the Euro-3 standard. In 2009, the Volga was discontinued due to falling demand and obsolescence of the model.

Conclusion

So, we found out what this series of cars is. Volga is a car with a long history. She is truly legendary. Models of Volga cars still drive on the roads of our country. True, the demand for them is falling every year.

- became the first Soviet passenger car assembly line.
In fact, this is a licensed copy of the Ford A model.
The model had a four-cylinder eight-valve engine with a capacity of 40 hp. based on the engine from Ford A.

GAZ-M-1

Years of issue 1936-1942
GAZ M-1 is a Soviet passenger car that replaced GAZ A.
The letter "M" stands for "Molotov".
The people called this car - "Emka".
It was equipped with an improved engine from the GAZ A model. 50 hp

Years of issue 1940-1942, 1945-1948

GAZ 11-73 is a modified version of the GAZ M1 model. The first prototypes appeared in 1938, and mass production began in 1941.
It was equipped with a Dodge D5 engine with a power of 76 hp.

M-20 Pobeda

Years of release 1946-1958
- was developed in the mid-1940s.
Conveyor production of the model began in 1946.
It was equipped with a four-cylinder power unit with a capacity of 50 hp. Later, after modernization, the engine power was increased first to 52 hp, and later to 55.

Year of issue 1950-1960

GAZ 12 ZIM - it was already a representative class car, intended mainly for state and party officials.
A modernized GAZ 11 power unit was installed on the car, with an increased power of 90 hp.

GAZ-21 "Volga"

Years of release 1956-1970
GAZ 21 Volga is a middle-class car. The first experimental cars saw the light in 1955 and in 1956 the model went into mass production.
The first GAZ 21 cars were equipped with power units from the GAZ M20, with a capacity of 65 hp. Subsequently, a new engine was released (1957) with a power of 70 hp, which, after several upgrades, increased the power to 75 hp from the middle of 1960.

GAZ-22 "Volga"

Years of release 1962-1970
GAZ 22 is a station wagon based on the GAZ 21 model. The first show of the model took place at VDNKh in 1962.
This model had an upgraded version of the ZMZ-21A engine, with a power of 75 hp.

GAZ-23 "Volga"

Years of release 1962-1970
GAZ-23 "Volga" - a Soviet middle-class car, produced on the basis of a conventional GAZ-21 sedan.
The engine was installed from the "Seagull" GAZ-13, but with some adaptation differences, with a power of 195 hp.

GAZ-13 "Seagull"

Years of release 1959-1981
GAZ 13 "Chaika" - a luxury car, intended in the main Soviet nomenclature.
The first experimental models appeared in 1957, serial production began in 1959.
The model was equipped with a new 8-cylinder overhead valve engine with a capacity of 195 hp.

GAZ-24 "Volga"

Years of release 1967-1985
GAZ 24 "Volga" is a middle-class car that replaced the GAZ 21 and became the most massive model of the GAZ plant.
The car had a modernized engine from GAZ 21 ZMZ-24 with a power of 98 hp.

GAZ-24-02 "Volga"

Years of release 1972-1986
GAZ 24-02 - station wagon based on GAZ 24.
This model was equipped with a modernized engine from the GAZ 21 ZMZ-24, with a power of 95 hp.

GAZ-24-24 "Volga"

Years of release 1971-1986
GAZ-24-24 "Volga" - a Soviet middle-class car manufactured by the Gorky Automobile Plant, produced on the basis of a conventional GAZ-24 sedan. It was a more powerful version of the base car for the KGB and other special services of the USSR.
Assembled by hand.
It was equipped with a ZMZ-2424 engine with a power of 195 hp.

GAZ-14 "Seagull"

Years of release 1977-1989
GAZ 14 "Seagull" - the second generation of the executive class car GAZ 13 "Seagull". Gathered in small series, almost by hand.
An 8-cylinder ZMZ-14 engine, created on the basis of an engine from GAZ 13, with a power of 220 hp, was installed on the car.

GAZ-24-10 "Volga"

Years of release 1985-1992
GAZ-24-10 "Volga" - a car of the middle class GAZ-24. In 1984 in Moscow, at the exhibition, the premiere of the first copy of the GAZ-24-10 took place.
The model was equipped with two engines ZMZ-402.1 (AI-93)
ZMZ-4021.1 (A-76), 100 hp

GAZ-24-34 "Volga"

Years of release 1986-1991
GAZ-24-34 "Volga" - a middle class passenger car produced in the USSR. This car was a more powerful version of the base car GAZ 24-10 modernized for the KGB and other special services.
It was equipped with a V-shaped 8-cylinder ZMZ-24-24 engine with a power of 195 hp.

GAZ-3102 "Volga"

Years of release 1981-2009
GAZ 3102 is a model that replaced GAZ 24. The first prototypes of this model appeared in 1976, and their development continued until 1980.
At the beginning, a new ZMZ 4022.10 engine with a power of 105 hp was installed on the car. Subsequently, due to its unreliability, the cars were re-equipped with ZMZ 402.10 engines with a power of 100 hp.

GAZ-31029 "Volga"

Years of release 1992-1998
GAZ-31029 "Volga" - further modernization of the GAZ-24-10 model using body elements of the GAZ-3102 model.
Completed with engines ZMZ-402.10, ZMZ-4021.10, ZMZ-4062.10

GAZ-31022 "Volga"

Years of release 1992-1998
GAZ-31022 - a car of the second group of the middle class with a cargo-passenger station wagon body. It was a logical continuation of the GAZ-24-12 model. The base vehicles used were the GAZ-31029 and GAZ-3102 sedans.
It was equipped with a ZMZ-402 engine with a capacity of 98 l / s.

GAZ-3105 "Volga"

Years of release 1992-1996
GAZ-3105 "Volga" - a car of a large class with an increased level of comfort.
The GAZ-3105 engine with a power of 170 hp was installed on the model.

GAZ-3110 "Volga"

Years of release 1997-2005
GAZ-3110 "Volga" - a car of the middle class is a further modernization of the model range "Volga", and replaced the car GAZ-31029.
Equipped with engines ZMZ-402.10, ZMZ-4021.10, ZMZ-4062.10, GAZ-560, GAZ-5601

GAZ-310221 "Volga"

Year of release 1997-2008
The GAZ 310221 station wagon model was developed and built on the basis of the GAZ 3110.
It had a 90 hp engine.

GAZ-3111 "Volga"

Year of release 2001-2002, 2004
GAZ-3111 Volga is a Russian business class passenger car. Produced in small series. In total, about 500 cars were produced.
It was mainly equipped with a ZMZ-4052.10 engine with a capacity of 155 hp. With.

GAZ-31105 "Volga"

Year of release 2004-2009
GAZ-31105 Volga is a middle class car. Essentially an improved version of the GAZ-3110.
Equipped with engines ZMZ-4021, ZMZ-4062.10, ZMZ-40525, Chrysler DOHC 2.4L, GAZ-560

GAZ-311055 "Volga"

Year of release 2005-2007
"Volga" GAZ-311055 with an extended wheelbase is a new modification of the GAZ-31105, designed to be used as a business executive car, or a VIP taxi.
It was equipped with a ZMZ-4062.10 engine with a power of 131 hp.

Year of release 2008-2010
Volga Siber (Volga Siber) is a mid-size sedan, first introduced as GAZ Siber at the Interauto-2007 exhibition in Moscow on August 29, 2007. In the future, the trade name of the model was changed to Volga Siber.
It was equipped with Chrysler 2.0 and 2.4 engines, with a power of 141 and 143 hp, respectively.