ZIS101

The ZIS-101 was a Soviet luxury limousine produced by the Zavod imeni Stalina (ZIS) factory in Moscow from 1947 to 1958. It was one of the first post-war passenger cars built in the Soviet Union. The ZIS-101 was designed for government officials and high-ranking party members, reflecting the Soviet Union's aspiration for prestige and advanced engineering.

The car featured a distinctive American-influenced styling of the late 1930s and early 1940s, with a large chrome grille, rounded fenders, and a substantial chrome bumper. It was powered by a 5.5-liter V8 gasoline engine, which was a significant departure from the inline-six engines common in earlier Soviet vehicles. The transmission was a three-speed manual.

Inside, the ZIS-101 offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, typically seating seven people. It was equipped with features considered luxurious for the era, including a radio and a heater. The car's suspension was designed for a smooth ride, suitable for the often poor road conditions in the Soviet Union.

Production of the ZIS-101 was relatively limited, with fewer than 2,000 units manufactured during its lifespan. It was eventually succeeded by the ZIS-110, which had a more modern design. The ZIS-101 remains a significant vehicle in Soviet automotive history, symbolizing a period of industrial development and a desire to showcase national capabilities in luxury automobile manufacturing.