| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1971 |
| Production Years: | 1971 - 1985 discontinued in 1985 |
Precise measurements of the 1971 ZIL 117, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5725 mm225.4 in18.8 ft |
| Width: | 2068 mm81.4 in6.8 ft |
| Height: | 1520 mm59.8 in5.0 ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 2880 kg6349 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Tire Size: | 235/70 R15 (W:235 | H:70 | D:15) |
The ZIL 117 is a distinctive large sedan produced by the Soviet luxury car manufacturer ZIL from 1971 to 1985. This generation of ZIL stands out with its impressive dimensions, measuring 5725 mm (225.4 inches) in length, 2068 mm (81.4 inches) in width, and 1520 mm (59.8 inches) in height. With a substantial curb weight of 2880 kg (6,350 lbs), the ZIL 117 was built to offer a commanding and stately presence typical of high-end executive sedans of its era. The vehicle rides on 15-inch tires sized 235/70 R15, contributing to its stable and smooth ride characteristics. As a product of Soviet automotive engineering, the ZIL 117 combines luxury and robust construction, reflecting a unique blend of design philosophy that catered primarily to government officials and dignitaries. Its considerable size places it in the realm of large sedans, comparable in stature to many Western limousines of the time. This car generation is emblematic of the Soviet Union's effort to produce exclusive, imposing vehicles for state use, ensuring maximum comfort and road authority. Overall, the ZIL 117 is a notable example of a classic luxury sedan with generous proportions and heavyweight build, making it a fascinating subject for automobile enthusiasts interested in historic Soviet cars.
Discover the standout features that make the 1971 ZIL 117 a leader in its class
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The ZIL 117 sedan, produced from 1971 to 1985, measures 5725 mm (225.4 inches) in length, 2068 mm (81.4 inches) in width, and 1520 mm (59.8 inches) in height. These dimensions reflect its status as a large, luxury limousine designed to comfortably accommodate passengers with ample interior space, while maintaining a stately and imposing road presence.
The curb weight of the ZIL 117 is approximately 2880 kg (6349 lbs). This significant weight is due to the robust construction, luxury features, and large size of the vehicle. The heavy weight contributes to a smooth and stable ride quality, which is characteristic of luxury sedans of the era, but may also affect fuel efficiency and acceleration compared to lighter vehicles.
The ZIL 117 is equipped with 235/70 R15 tires. These tires have a width of 235 mm (9.25 inches), an aspect ratio of 70%, and fit 15-inch diameter wheels. The relatively tall sidewall (70% of the tire width) enhances ride comfort by absorbing road irregularities, which is critical for a luxury sedan aimed at smooth performance. Additionally, the tire size provides good traction and stability for the heavy vehicle.
The ZIL 117 is 2068 mm (81.4 inches) wide. Standard residential garages typically have widths of about 2400 mm to 2700 mm (94.5 to 106 inches), so the ZIL 117 will fit into a standard garage with some clearance. However, given its large width combined with its considerable length (5725 mm or 225.4 inches), maneuvering and parking may require care to avoid close contact with garage walls, especially in older or smaller garages.
The ZIL 117 was introduced as a more compact luxury sedan relative to other ZIL limousines like the ZIL 114 and ZIL 111. For example, the ZIL 114, produced from 1967 to 1978, was about 6325 mm (249 inches) long and 2100 mm (82.7 inches) wide, making the ZIL 117 shorter by around 600 mm (23.6 inches) and slightly narrower by approximately 32 mm (1.3 inches). This reduction made the 117 better suited for more urban and flexible use while still providing exceptional luxury. The ZIL 117 maintained many features but in a more streamlined form, blending prestige with relative manageability.
Compared to contemporaries like the Mercedes-Benz 600 (W100) and American luxury sedans such as the Cadillac Fleetwood, the ZIL 117 was comparable in length and width—although generally heavier due to its construction. The Mercedes-Benz 600 measured approximately 6128 mm (241.3 inches) long and was slightly wider at around 1980 mm (77.9 inches). The ZIL 117 offered similar luxury appointments with a focus on Soviet state use, while Western competitors often provided more refined engineering and higher technology integration. In terms of dimensions, the ZIL 117 was on the larger side for a sedan but intended to balance grandeur with maneuverability.
Given the ZIL 117's large exterior dimensions of 5725 mm (225.4 inches) in length and 2068 mm (81.4 inches) in width, the interior was designed to provide ample space for passengers, especially in the rear seats. The sedate height of 1520 mm (59.8 inches) is typical for luxury sedans, offering generous headroom. The wide body allows for spacious seating arrangements and comfort features expected in limousines, making it ideal for official state or VIP transport.
Although exact turning radius data for the ZIL 117 is scarce, its relatively large length of 5725 mm (225.4 inches) combined with its width of 2068 mm (81.4 inches) suggests the vehicle requires considerable space to maneuver. While it is smaller than other limousines like the ZIL 114, it was still primarily designed for comfortable highway and ceremonial driving rather than tight urban environments. Drivers would need to be cautious in narrow streets or tight parking situations.
The ZIL 117 stands out with its elongated body and wide stance, measuring 5725 mm (225.4 inches) long and 2068 mm (81.4 inches) wide, dimensions that are larger than most typical mid-size sedans of the 1970s. Its height of 1520 mm (59.8 inches) contributes to a sleek profile rather than a bulky appearance. Distinguished by a formal limousine design, the car balanced among luxury, size, and a degree of maneuverability unmatched by traditional massive limousines such as the ZIL 114.
Due to its substantial size—5725 mm (225.4 inches) in length and 2068 mm (81.4 inches) in width—the ZIL 117 requires a spacious garage, ideally wider and longer than typical residential standards. While it can fit into a standard garage, careful measurement and consideration of door widths are necessary. The heavy weight (2880 kg / 6349 lbs) also means the garage floor should be sturdy enough to accommodate the load. Public street parking may also present challenges due to the vehicle's length and width.
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