ZIL-117 - the pride of the USSR, a car with a rich history. Five-seat rear-wheel drive "iron horse" of high class. It took more than one year to create it. The sedan was released in Moscow at the I.A. Likhachev in 1791. It was designed in the likeness of the government limousine of the 114th model. He also had a classic and austere appearance. According to an unofficial version, the order to create it was given by Leonid Brezhnev himself.
The car was used to ensure the movement of the government. She also participated in parades and filming. Cars were collected only on order, individually for each official.
On the day of its release, a whole ceremony was arranged. ZIL presented as a symbol and pride of the country.
Specifications
The appearance of the 117th and 114th models was almost the same. The shapes were almost the same, dimensions, weight and small details, such as the bumper, wheels, door handles, etc., changed.
Despite its dimensions, the ZIL-117 was frisky, dynamic and maneuverable. Its length was 5.72 m, width - 2.07 m, height - 1.54 m. Weight - 2880 kg. And while he gained speed up to 203 km / h. Accelerated to 100 km / h in 13 seconds. This is a good result, about the same as the modern VAZ Priora, which weighs half as much.
Fuel consumption per 100 km was about 19 liters (according to official figures). In fact, this figure was greater. The volume of the tank is 120 liters, but it was not enough for a short time.
This vehicle was on a status above the 114th model. Designers have created the most comfortable, reliable and safe car. He had a smooth and soft ride. Although it was intended for high-quality roads, cross-country ability was considered not bad.
ZIL-117 exceeded in many respects the best foreign cars of the highest class. It was equipped with a powerful 8-cylinder engine with ZIL-114, issuing 303 hp, automatic transmission, power windows, electric drive for moving the front seats, air conditioning, disc front and rear hydraulic brakes. The front seats were lined with leather and the rear ones with velor.
Transformations
Over time, some modifications were released, such as ZIL-117V - a two-door car with an open top, ZIL-117E - with a film adaptation, ZIL-117VE - a convertible with a film adaptation. In one copy, ZIL-117M and Zil-117P were assembled - a five-seater with a partition.
Auto today
In 1978, ZIL-117 ceased to be produced, but today there are models in perfect condition due to the fact that high-quality metal was used in the assembly. Most of them adorn the collections of lovers. In total, about 70 cars were produced, but 10 remained around the world.
Buying such a car today is almost impossible. And the reason is not even a high price. Finding a car is much more difficult, especially in good condition. ZIL-117, the price of which can vary in the widest range, remains a valuable exhibit in the collection of connoisseurs.
Legend car
Why ZIL-117 was not produced for long? It was very expensive to maintain it, and therefore the powers that be began to change to foreign cars. This was due to economic feasibility. Today, the ZIL-117 car is an antique, a legend, a memory of other times. Very rare, but you can still find this unique exhibit at the exhibitions of retro cars. It is a pity that in our time they do not pay much attention to domestic cars.
The considered vehicle is an example of the fact that our experts can make cars no worse than foreign cars. Currently, the described ZIL can only be admired at parades and at specialized exhibitions.
There are communities of people interested in retro cars. Together they are looking for interesting facts about cars of those times. ZIL-117, undoubtedly, is in the center of attention.