The nickname “boar” was most often assigned to the Soviet sedan GAZ-24 Volga because of the characteristic massive "snout" with a horizontal grille and a powerful, squat body shape. However, in automotive folklore, there are other contenders for this name, including an earlier one. GAZ-21, some modifications ouaz and even legendary Mercedes W123. Understanding what kind of car is called a boar requires immersion in the history of the Soviet automotive industry and visual comparison of body shapes of different eras.
Drivers and motorists gave the equipment human or animal features for a reason: it helped to quickly identify the model, its character and even the social status of the owner. Association with boar It was created where design implied power, clumsiness, or a specific “hunchback” of forms. In this article, we will analyze in detail the history of the emergence of this nickname, compare the technical characteristics of applicants and find out why these cars were included in the “animal” list.
⚠️ Note: The use of folk nicknames in official documents, insurance policies or when ordering spare parts is unacceptable. The mechanic in the store may not realize that you need a “front headlight on a boar”, so always use factory model indexes.
GAZ-24: The main contender for the title
When it comes to what kind of car is called a boar, in 80% of cases it is about the car. GAZ-24. This model, which replaced the “twenty-first” Volga, received more rectangular, chopped shapes, but retained a massive front overhang. It was the profile of the car, especially in combination with chrome bumpers-fangs, that caused persistent associations with a wild boar digging the ground.
Front design GAZ-24 It played a key role in the establishment of the nickname. The wide, almost vertical grille with horizontal slots resembled a spider, and the massive wings created a feeling of heavy, confident footsteps. Unlike the more rounded forms of its predecessor, the boar looked more aggressive and modern for its time, although inferior in elegance.
- 🚙 Massive front bumper with characteristic protrusions, visually resembling fangs.
- 🚙 High clearance. And heavy suspension, which creates a sense of all-terrain.
- 🚙 Wide motor gamut, including the ZMZ-24D engines, which required a large under-hood space.
Interestingly, the nickname took root not only in the driver’s environment, but also in professional circles. Taxi drivers and traffic police officers often used cuts, and the “boar” became synonymous with a reliable but voracious vehicle. Key feature of the designThe "frontal" part of the body, which influenced the name, was exactly the "frontal" part of the body, which the GAZ-24 looked especially impressive.
GAZ-21: Predecessor with a "pet"
Thought GAZ-24 They are often called boars, many old-timers attribute this nickname to its predecessor. GAZ-21 (Second series) This machine had a unique three-stage grille, which in a certain angle and under certain lighting really resembled the face of an animal. However, more often the "twenty-first" affectionately called just "Volga" or "Seagull" (although the Seagull is a separate model of GAZ-13/14).
Technical specifications GAZ-21 They also helped to create a powerful beast. The car had a frame structure, which made it incredibly durable, but also heavy. Engine. ZMZ-21A It was thrustful and reliable, allowing the car to feel confident on broken roads, which brings it to the image of a wild boar, not afraid of obstacles.
Visual comparison GAZ-21 and GAZ-24 The evolution of style is shown: from rounded, smooth lines to more rigorous geometry. If the “boar” in the face of the 24th model looked like an adult secach, then the 21st was more like a young, but already strong beast. Chrome-lined The windows and doors on the 21st were added with a gloss that is rarely associated with wildlife, which may have prevented the nickname from being as firmly anchored in it.
⚠️ Note: When restoring GAZ-21 or GAZ-24, it is important to use original or high-quality parts. Installation of plastic bumpers from later models or foreign cars completely destroys the historical appearance of the “boar”.
Comparative Characteristics Table
To better understand the differences between the main contenders for the title of “boar”, consider their technical parameters. Despite the similarity in mass, these machines had significant differences in design and purpose.
| Parameter | GAZ-21 (1962–1970) | GAZ-24 (1970–1985) | UAZ-469 (172) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body type | sedan | Sedan/Universal | Universal/Phaethon |
| Engine. | 2.45 l (ZMZ-21A) | 2.45 l (ZMZ-24D) | 2.5 l (UMZ-414) |
| Power | 75 hp | 95-100 hp. | 75 hp |
| Driver. | Back | Back | Complete. |
| Clearance. | 190 mm | 174 mm | 220 mm |
As you can see from the table, GAZ-24 It was more powerful and lower than its predecessor, making it more stable on the track, but less adapted to serious off-road compared to the previous one. ouaz. It is a combination of comfort sedan and cross-country (for his years) cemented the status of the "Boar" in the minds of drivers.
Interesting fact about engines
ZMZ engines for Volga and Boar were famous for their resource. With timely oil change and valve adjustment, they easily walked 400-500 thousand kilometers before the first overhaul, which was an outstanding figure for the Soviet era.
UAZ and other "forest" inhabitants
The question of which car is called a boar sometimes leads us to SUVs. Thought UAZ-469 and its modifications are more often called "Bobik" or "Goat", in some regions and among the military there was a name "Boar". This is due to the angular shape of the body, especially in the early versions with a metal roof, and incredible cross-country through the mud, where the car behaves confidently, like an animal in the native element.
It's worth mentioning. VAZ-2106. In certain circles, especially in the southern regions, the “six” with a body kit or just in the drain was sometimes ironically called a boar. This is due to a massive grille with four round headlights that in profile resembled eyes and a spot. However, this nickname is less common and is more local in nature.
- 🚜 UAZ-3151 A more modern version that retains the brutality of the ancestor.
- 🚜 ZAZ-968. - "Zaporozhets" was sometimes called a boar because of the shape of the body, but more often "Brokeback".
- 🚜 Mercedes W123 - in the 90s, this car was called "Keg" or "Boar" for its indestructibility and characteristic silhouette.
A comparison of Soviet and foreign technology shows that nicknames were often given for similar qualities: reliability, simplicity and recognizable silhouette. Mercedes W123The rod, for example, became a symbol of reliability, and the nickname “boar” in this context sounded like a sign of respect for the endurance of the machine.
Technical features and maintenance
Owning a car, which is popularly called a boar, requires an understanding of its technical features. These machines are usually simple in design, making repairs easier, but require regular attention to certain nodes. Engines. ZMZ sensitive to the quality of the oil and the cooling system.
Particular attention should be paid to the ignition system. On the old "Volga" and "UAZ" used contact ignition, which required regular cleaning and adjustment of the gap. Transition to electronic systems (BCS.) greatly simplifies operation and improves engine start-up in the cold season.
☑️ Checklist of preparation of "Boar" for the season
Body elements of these cars, especially if we are talking about the GAZ-21 and GAZ-24, are subject to corrosion. Thresholds, arches and bottoms of doors are the first candidates for the appearance of rust. Anti-corrosion treatment It is a necessary procedure for the preservation of the historic car.
⚠️ When buying spare parts for GAZ-21/24, beware of modern replicas of low quality. Chinese analogues of plastic cabin elements or rubber seals may not fit in size or quickly become disrepaired.
Cultural code and nostalgia
The cars, nicknamed “boar,” have become an integral part of the cultural code of several generations. They starred in dozens of Soviet films, from comedies to dramas, becoming symbols of the era. GAZ-24 In movies, he was often associated with successful people, taxi drivers, or even the underworld ("The meeting place cannot be changed").
Today, interest in these machines is experiencing a renaissance. The number of amateur clubs is growing, restoring Volga and UAZ in their original form. For many owners, it’s not just a hobby, but a way to preserve history and feel connected to the past. Retro-car races They gather hundreds of participants, demonstrating that the boars are still on the move.
The nickname “Boar” is a tribute to the endurance, recognizable design and folk character of these cars, which became legends of their time.
In conclusion, we can say that the title of "boar" deservedly wear several models, but GAZ-24 He remains the main bearer of this name. His image is firmly entrenched in the memory, and even decades after the cessation of production, he evokes warm feelings and recognition.
Expert advice: If you plan to buy a Volga for restoration, look for a body with a minimum amount of digested elements. The original geometry of the body is valued by collectors much higher than the perfectly painted, but "curve" metal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is GAZ-24 called a boar?
The main reason is the characteristic shape of the front of the car: the massive, almost vertical grille and wide wings create an association with the powerful snout of the boar. Also affects the overall squatness and “heavy” look of the car.
What is the difference between GAZ-21 and GAZ-24?
GAZ-21 ("twenty-first") - more rounded, produced in the 50-60s, had a three-stage grille. GAZ-24 ("twenty-fourth") - more angular, rectangular, produced in the 70-80s, had a two-stage grille and a more modern design for that time.
Can I buy a new Volga today?
Officially, the plant GAZ does not produce classic models GAZ-21 or GAZ-24 for a long time. However, there are projects for small-scale assembly or restoration of these cars by private workshops. Also produced modern "Volga" (GAZ-31105 and its modifications), but it is quite different machines.
Is it true that the Mercedes 123 was also called a boar?
Yes, in certain circles, the Mercedes W123 (especially in the wagon body or with a characteristic “hump” on the roof) could be called a boar for its endurance and massiveness, although the more popular nickname is “barrel” or “body”.
Is it difficult to find spare parts on the GAZ-24?
On the main components of the engine and chassis, spare parts can be found (many are still produced or there is a good used market). With the bodywork and unique elements of the cabin can be difficult, often have to look for donors or order replicas.