GAZ M-21V Volga
The first Volga looked confident and modern, but its 1957 engine story shows how a factory can improve a new car while production is already beginning.
GAZ-M-21 Volga First Series in Moscow · Sergey Rodovnichenko · CC BY-SA 2.0
More than a set of wheels.
GAZ built the first small batch of Volgas in October 1956 and moved toward series production in 1957. Early cars used a 65 hp version of the old Pobeda engine because the new engine was not ready. This profile is the later-1957 M-21V with the new 2.45-litre overhead-valve ZMZ engine and a three-speed manual gearbox, still wearing the first-series star grille.
Look a little closer.
Enthusiasts identify the first series by the big star in its grille—but the museum warns that grille nicknames do not capture every mechanical change underneath.
Photos show an example of the model or generation. The pictured vehicle’s year, equipment, or modifications can differ from the specification described here.
Two engines during one launch year
The new ZMZ engine entered production in summer 1957, but some Volgas continued receiving the older 65 hp engine until year-end. Joyride therefore names this page M-21V and does not pretend every 1957 car had the same powerplant.
Source: Tbilisi Auto Museum · first-series GAZ-M21 ↗A roomier replacement for the Pobeda
The Volga’s designers moved the engine and passenger space to give rear occupants more room than in the Pobeda. It became a familiar Soviet saloon for officials, taxis and private owners, with production continuing through three visually recognized series.
Source: GAZ Museum · plant history ↗Where these facts come from
- Tbilisi Auto Museum · first-series GAZ-M21
- GAZ Museum · plant history
- Drom · 1957 ZMZ-powered GAZ-21 specifications
Selected facts checked for this edition. Some source pages link to broader model families. Last reviewed September 30, 2026.