A GAZ-M-21 in Tallinn, Estonia, the "Baleen" type grille would become a factory trademark element, Tallinn, Estonia, Europe, EU
Volga (Russian: Волга) is an automobile brand that originated in the Soviet Union to replace the venerated GAZ Pobeda in 1956. Modern in design, the car survived several generations. Although Volga cars were readily used as taxi cabs, road police interceptors and ambulances (based on the estate versions), it was their role in serving the Soviet nomenklatura, that made them a contemporary cultural icon. Several generations of the car were produced. In 1962, the car was visibly modernised for the final time. Once again the radiator grille was changed, this time in favour of a new 36 slit design "Baleen" (Kitovy Us). The latter, would become a GAZ trademark that survives to date. The bonnet leaping deer mascot was completely removed, as was the longitunal moulding. Generally, the car was characterised by a more sleek profile with the bumper overriders removed and the front indicators were also altered. Inside, the upholstery received new woollen seats and leatherette headliner. The engine was now 75 hp (56 kW; 76 PS) (due to new cylinder heads, which increased compression to :1, and new crankshaft[citation needed]), with no loss in fuel economy.[citation needed] (Export models got the 85 hp (63 kW; 86 PS) engine, with :1 compression.) Telescopic shock absorbers replaced the lever type ones (a change made in Series 2). The radio became optional. The mentioned optional chrome trim elements which were limited to the window arches were now joined by front and rear details on the top of the wings, "arrows" in front and "fintails" in rear. Models were as follows: M21L base sedan, M21M export variant, and M21T taxi. Also in 1962, an export version destined for countries with left-hand drive was developed, called the M21N. The M21U retained its designation for the more expensive version with optional trim.
Size: 5760px × 3840px
Location: Tallinn, Estonia, Europe, EU
Photo credit: © Thibaut PETIT-BARA / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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