ZIL-111: photo, specifications

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:42

The Soviet car ZIL-111 belongs to the elite class. It was produced from 1958 to 1967. at the Likhachev plant in Moscow. The car did not go into a large-scale series, just over 110 copies were assembled. The main purpose of the vehicle is to serve the heads of the Soviet state. This model came to replace the outdated ZIS-110. According to the directive of the government, the design bureau had to develop a more advanced machine within three months. The new project was partially copied from the modifications of the American automotive industry. Consider the features of this elite limousine.

History of Creation

ZIL-11 differed from its predecessor in more modern contours, the body part was copied from several foreign modifications (elements from Buick, Cadillac, Packard are traced here). In general, the exterior of the model turned out to be not quite presentable, without features that would make an executive category car spectacular and stylish.

As a result, a competition for the best design project was announced. Several solutions were proposed, most of which were based on American cars from the 50s. There was nothing in copying foreign modificationsshameful, however, it was necessary to know the measure, otherwise disputes over licensing could arise.

The final version of the ZIL-111 was approved and began to be assembled in a separate experimental workshop. First, they created several prototypes, after testing which, they decided to release a limited series. The main problem arose with the stamping of the plumage, since the dimensions of the wings of the updated car went beyond the standard framework. The way out was found by creating an exclusive equipment, on which the elements of the external design were made.

Technical characteristics of ZIL-111

The following are the main parameters of the weight plan:

• Length/width/height – 6, 14/ 2, 04/ 1, 64 m.
• Front/rear track – 1.57/ 1.65 m.
• Wheelbase - 3.76 m.
• Road clearance - 21 cm.
• The weight of the equipped car is 2.6 tons.
• Fuel tank volume - 120 l.

The running and speed characteristics of the ZIL-111 car met the standards adopted for the classification of vehicles serving government structures. In the exterior of the car, the handwriting of American mid-range modifications was definitely recognizable, including large windows, fin-like rear fenders, a low landing and a slight disproportion between the width and height of the car. The frame-type base made it possible to withstand an elongated chassis. The load-bearing body did not have such strength.

ZIL-111 engine

The power unit of the car in question is an atmospheric carburetorengine consuming AI-93 type gasoline.

Main engine parameters:

• Working volume - 5,969 cubic meters. see
• Number of cylinders - 8 pieces.
• V-shaped layout.
• Number of valves - 16 pieces
• Operating mechanism - OHV version.
• Compression – 9.
• The size of the cylinder in diameter is 100 mm.
• Piston travel - 95 mm.
• Food - carburetor four-chamber system type K-85.
• Power indicator - 200 horsepower.
• Cylinder head - aluminum alloy.
• Material of the body of the unit - cast iron.

Chassis

ZIL-111 is focused on low speeds. The main purpose of the car is to transport heads and members of the government as part of a cortege, go to parades and meet high-ranking guests at the airport. In principle, this is where the functionality of the car ends.

At the same time, the undercarriage of the vehicle has a significant margin of safety. Such a safety net is needed so that the car does not fail at the most crucial moment. The reinforced frame-type chassis carries the front suspension. Its design includes an independent multi-link assembly, a torsion bar, steel springs and reinforced hydraulic shock absorbers.

Rear counterpart - dependent type, equipped with semi-ellipse springs, hydraulics, planetary gear with differential. The design of the block is continuous, it aggregates with the transmission through a two-section cardan shaft. Hypoid engagement inthe form of a gear pair ensures silent operation of the unit. A slight noise was observed only when moving backwards.

Transmission system

As for the transmission, the ZIL-111 is equipped with a two-speed automatic transmission with a hydraulic transformer and planetary gears. Speeds are switched using buttons located to the left of the steering column. Gear ratios:(3, 54/ 1, 72/ 1, 0/ 2, 39) - main/forward/second/reverse.

Modifications

In 1959, the regular model ZIL-111, the photo of which is presented above, passed the first stage of modernization, received the name 111A. The car was equipped with the first special air conditioner in the Union, and the rear window was also significantly reduced. This decision allowed to strengthen security measures and increase the comfort of movement.

In 1960, the phaeton 111B was produced in a small series. It was a huge car with seven seats, equipped with an awning that folded and unfolded using hydraulics. By design, the roof resembled analogues used on ZISs.

The modified version of 111G has become the most significant in the direction of cardinal implementations and transformations. The car received double front headlights, chrome swept moldings on the sides and an updated nickel-plated radiator grille. ZIL-111 (photo of the interior below) was finished inside in a completely different way, a new semi-hidden type air conditioner appeared. As a result, the vehicle became more massive by 200kilogram and 50 millimeters longer.

Later, parade chaises (ZIL-111D) were designed based on the 111G model. The first copy rolled off the assembly line in 1963. Only seven units of this type were produced. The total number of open-type limousines based on the technology in question was about 120 pieces. Thus, the problem with domestic luxury cars was solved.

Interesting facts

Regarding the ZIL-11D phaeton, it can be noted that three cars were made strictly in black. One copy was sent to the GDR, its further fate is unknown. The remaining two limousines stood for a long time within the walls of the plant. The gray-blue counterparts have a more fun story, they periodically appeared on parades for a long time.

For the first time, the phaeton went to Red Square in 1967 (a parade dedicated to the fiftieth anniversary of the October Revolution). Several cars under the index 114 were prepared for this date, but these government limousines did not make it to the event.

The leader of the USSR Nikita Khrushchev wholeheartedly presented one phaeton to Comandante Fidel Castro. The ruler of Cuba returned home by plane, and the present for a long time reached its destination by sea. Upon arrival on the island, ZIL-111 was solemnly handed over to Fidel for use, and Ambassador Alekseev led the event from the Union.