The Soviet Union industry was oriented primarily towards the needs of the state and the communism building. Surely, this trend has not spared the domestic auto industry either. You may think that heavy equipment was in clear priority over passenger cars, but despite this, the Soviet Union exported domestic cars abroad in a wide variety. Some models entered the developed competitive markets such as Britain, Germany, and even the United States.
Which Cars Were Popular Abroad?
- GAZ-M20 Pobeda
Such a car was an obvious outbreak for the Soviet car industry. It could boast an all-metal body, a low gravity center, and an efficient 4-cylinder power unit, which provided decent dynamics and controllability. The salon was well finished and comfortable; a separate trunk was also provided. After three years of production (and after solving some problems and some modernizing performing), the quality of painting and assembly of Pobeda became better. As the result, the car was delivered to export;
- The GAZ-13 Chaika
The new model has collected almost all the most relevant achievements in the automotive industry. It’s about automatic transmission with push-button gear shifting, power steering, vacuum brake booster, tubeless tires, motorized windows, 5-channel radio with automatic tuning, and electric drive of the antenna rod. The GAZ-13 Chaika received a Chrysler V8 power engine, which was slightly altered to fit Soviet realities. The unit had 5.5 liters of displacement and 195 hp. Both externally and internally the vehicle resembled American cars of that time. The first prototype was assembled in 1957. The GAZ-13 was painted unusually (a dark cherry bottom and a light cream top), so conquered with its aesthetics.
- The GAZ-21 Volga
The project appeared due to the Pobeda modernization, continuing the passenger model range of GAZ development. The car had a heater, a radio receiver, and progressive suspended pedals. It was produced in 2 versions: ordinary and improved. The last one offered a more powerful engine, which was achieved due to the increased compression ratio. However, even this was not enough for foreign clients. The journalists’ reviews contained information about the good ride and cross-country ability, but poor handling and weak dynamics. Therefore, the Belgian S.A. Scaldia–Volga Company began to use diesel engines in order to increase the competitiveness of the GAZ-21 in Western Europe. At first, it was a 1.6-liter 48-horsepower Perkins Four power unit, later it was replaced by a 2.3-liter Rover engine (65 hp). The last modifications were equipped with a 1.9-liter Peugeot-Indenor unit with a 58 hp power.
Modern Situation
Today all the above-mentioned cars are regarded as real rare objects and true appraisers are trying to keep them in running condition. Of course, the spare parts for retro cars are essential elements for reaching such a goal. It refers to high-quality parts, which can extend the service life of a car and fully demonstrate the Soviet automobile industry efforts. The Autoclassic Company offers the possibility not only to become a car owner but also to purchase a wide range of original spare parts. All you have to do is to complete a form on a website and select the car type, model, and category. The system will analyze the acquired information and display the matching details. You can also get acquainted with sales, new arrivals, bestsellers, and other categories of goods. Pay attention that the Autoclassic Company also brings the opportunity to get such essential services, as car’s and dial’s restoration, engine repairs, chrome plating, etc. Company specialists are always ready to provide the client with the required information and demonstrate high-level service.