Volga M24

Wednesday 30 September 2009
Development of GAZ-24 (then called M-24) finished in 1966 when several prototypes were built. Volga GAZ-24 was introduced in 1967. However, only 31 units were built in 1968, primarily for road tests, with another 215 units built in 1969. 1968/69-built Volgas are often called "pre-serial" because full-scale manufacturing started only in 1970 (18,486 units built). Distinctive feature of 1968-1969 and early 1970 Volgas are two outside rearview mirrors fixed on front fenders. Later cars got one mirror placed on front left door. GAZ-24 was developed to replace outdated Volga GAZ-21 developed in 1950s. New Volga had a longer wheelbase (2800 mm) then the GAZ-21 (2700 mm), but slightly shorter overall length (4735 mm compared to 4810) and was substantially lower (1490 mm compared to 1620). Width remained untouched. Long wheelbase, boxier styling, bucket seats with lower bases and flat roof made the new Volga generously sized inside, with comfortable 5...6-passenger seating. The car was designed to last for years in severe road conditions, and its reinforced unibody construction gave the Volga extra weight if compared to foreign analogs.

Technical data:
- engine: 4 cylinders
- capacity: 2445 cc
- horsepower: 98 HP
- gearbox: 4+1
- top speed: 155 km/h