ZIL-41047 USSR Auto Legends

The ZIL-41047 was a facelift of the 41045, timed to coincide with Gorbachev becoming General Secretary of the CPSU Central Committee. The first car left the assembly line in 1986, with the main changes affecting its appearance. Round headlights gave way to square ones, the grille became more prominent and the rear lights were reshaped.

The improved engine was designated 4105-01. New tyres allowed continued driving after pressure loss thanks to a special gel inside and extremely stiff sidewalls.

In 1986 the ZIL-41047 was the world’s longest and heaviest production car. Each took about 5.5 months to build, with no more than 15–20 assembled annually. Its 7,695 cc engine produced 315 hp at 4,400–4,600 rpm, and kerb weight was 3,335 kg. The last of roughly 200 ZIL-41047s was delivered to the Special Purpose Garage in 2003.