Soviet car ZAZ-968. He became a true legend of the domestic car industry. This model, known as the “humpback Zaporozhets”, still evokes nostalgia among motorists and gathers around itself a community of enthusiasts. But when exactly did its production begin? The answer to this question lies in history. Zaporizhzhia Automobile Plant (ZAZ) The evolution of the Soviet automobile industry.

The first prototypes of the future ZAZ-968. They appeared in the early 1970s, but the serial production started later. The car became a logical continuation of the line "Zaporozhetsev", replacing the model ZAZ-966.. In this article we will analyze not only the exact date of production, but also the technical innovations that have been made. ZAZ-968 is the first real "humped" car with improved performance. You will also learn how to distinguish early versions from later versions and why this model became so popular despite its modest technical data.

Official date of start of production ZAZ-968

The first serial ZAZ-968 rolled off the assembly line of the Zaporizhzhzhye Automobile Plant on May 21, 1979.. This date is considered the official start of the production of the model. However, preparations for the release were conducted long before that: in 1971, the first experimental samples were ready, and in 1976, factory tests began.

I wonder what. ZAZ-968. It was the first model of the plant to pass a full cycle of tests on the Research Automotive and Automotive Institute (NAMI). This has significantly improved reliability compared to its predecessor. ZAZ-966.. Production was carried out on the main conveyor ZAZ in Zaporizhzhzhye, and some components (for example, engines) were supplied from the plant. Melitopol Motor Plant.

The first cars, which rolled off the assembly line in 1979, had a number of differences from the later versions: Early ZAZ-968 carburetors were installed type K-126G, and not K-126N, as in later versions.

This has affected the dynamics and fuel consumption. Also in the first batches there were no elements of interior decoration, which appeared later.

📊 Have you ever been to a ZAZ-968?
Yeah, that was my first car.
Yes, I was riding with friends/relatives.
No, but I saw it on the roads.
No, I don't want to.
I don't know what kind of car that is.

Differences between ZAZ-968 and the previous ZAZ-966 model

Thought ZAZ-968. It was like a predecessor of its own. ZAZ-966.There were many technical and design differences between them. The main improvements were:

  • 🔧 Engine.: increased from 0.9 to 1.2 l (power increased to 40 hp. 30 hp. bal ZAZ-966.which allowed the speed to be increased to 120 km/h.
  • 🚗 Kuzova: there are new moldings, a modified grille and more modern headlights (in later versions - rectangular).
  • 🔄 Transmissions: the transmission received synchronizers on all transmissions (y) ZAZ-966. The synchronizers were only on the 3rd and 4th.
  • 🪑 salon: new instrument panel with tachometer, improved seats and better sound insulation.

However, not all changes were positive. For example, engine-cooling It was a vulnerable place: during long trips in the heat, the engine could overheat. Also, the owners noted a weak stability at high speeds due to the high center of gravity (due to the rear location of the engine).

Why ZAZ-968 was called "humpback"

The nickname “humpback” car was due to the characteristic shape of the roof, which was raised above the rear of the body. This was done to increase the space above the rear row of seats and improve the view through the rear window. The design decision was so memorable that it became the hallmark of all the later models of Zaporozhye.

Technical characteristics of the first ZAZ-968 (1979-1982)

First serial ZAZ-968. had the following key parameters:

Characteristics Meaning
Engine. MeMZ-9684-cylinder, air-cooled
Engine volume 1197 cm
Power 40 hp 4400 rpm
Transmission 4-speed mechanical (synchronizers on all transmissions)
Maximum speed 120 km/h
Fuel consumption 7.5–9 l/100 km (on the highway/city)

The original version was a feature of carburetor K-126Gwhich was later replaced by a more perfect K-126N. In the first batches, generators were also installed. G-221They often fail due to weak protection from moisture. The problem was solved only in 1983, when the generators began to be installed. 37.3701 from VAZ-2101.

⚠️ Attention: When buying ZAZ-968 early years of release (1979-1981) pay attention to the state of electrical wiring. Due to the use of aluminum wires and weak insulation, short circuits often occur, especially in the connection points with the body.

Evolution of the model: modifications ZAZ-968A and 968M

Production ZAZ-968. I didn't stand still. In 1982, a modification appeared. ZAZ-968.who received:

  • 🔋 Improved generator 37.3701 (from the VAZ "classic").
  • 🔦 Rectangular headlights instead of round (on parts of the machines).
  • 🛠️ Reinforced front bumpers with plastic linings.

And in 1986 he made his debut. ZAZ-968M It is the most popular version, which was produced until 1994. Its key differences are:

  • 🔥 Engine. MeMZ-968M from increased to 45 hp. power.
  • 🚪 New doors with improved seals and lock mechanisms.
  • 🎛️ Upgraded instrument panel with oil pressure control lamp.

I wonder what. ZAZ-968M He was the last "humpbacked" Zaporozhets. After that, the factory switched to a model. ZAZ-1102 "Tavria", which already had a front-wheel drive layout and water cooling of the engine.

Air cooling condition (radiator, fan, pipes)| Transmission operation (synchronizers often wear out)| Body integrity (rust in arches and rapids)| Electrical wiring (especially in mass junctions)| Documents (many cars were interrupted in the 1990s)->

Why is the ZAZ-968 a cult car?

ZAZ-968. It has gained a cult status not only because of its unusual design, but also because of a number of social factors:

  1. Availability. In the USSR, the car was about 5,500–6,000 rubles (for comparison, VAZ-2106 cost 7 500–8 000). This made it one of the most budget models on the market.
  2. Easy to repair. The air-cooled engine did not require antifreeze, and parts were cheap and common.
  3. Unique image. Brokeback became a symbol of the Soviet era, appearing in films ("The Diamond Arm", "Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Profession") and anecdotes.
  4. Export success. The car was delivered to Eastern Europe, Cuba and even Finland, where it was in demand as a “winter” car due to rear-wheel drive.

But there were downsides. For example, noiseproofing It made long distance travel tedious, and power-free steering It made it difficult to control at low speeds. For many Soviet families, however, ZAZ-968. It was the only way to get personal transportation.

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If you are planning to restore ZAZ-968, pay attention to the clubs of retro cars. Often they sell rare parts (for example, original moldings or headlights) at prices lower than in online stores.

How to determine the year of production ZAZ-968 VIN and body?

Year of release ZAZ-968. It can be defined in several ways:

  1. VIN code. The body number was applied to the right pillar of the windshield and had a format Z968XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXThe first digits after the letters indicate the year:
    • 1 or 2 - 1979-1980.
    • 3-5 - 1981-1983.
    • 6-8 - 1984-1986 (start of issue) ZAZ-968M).
  • By appearance.
    • 🔹 Round headlights - early versions (1979-1982).
    • 🔹 Rectangular headlights. ZAZ-968A/M (after 1982).
    • 🔹 Plastic pads on bumpers - modifications after 1985.
    • Documents. The PTS and registration certificates indicated the release date, but be careful: in the 1990s, many cars interrupted, changing the year to a later one.

    If you doubt the authenticity of the year, pay attention to the engine marking. On the cylinder blocks of the early ZAZ-968. The year of release (for example, 79 or 80) which can be seen after cleaning the dirt.

    ⚠️ Attention: When buying a retro car, check the matching of the body number in three places: on the windshield rack, under the hood (on the right cup of the shock absorber) and in the niche of the spare wheel. Discrepancies may indicate interruption or accident.

    How much did the ZAZ-968 cost in the USSR and how did it get bought?

    In Soviet times, buying a car was not easy. ZAZ-968. sold through the system motorbikewhere prices are set by the state. The cost depended on the configuration:

    • 💰 Basic version (1979–1982) 5 500 rubles.
    • 💰 ZAZ-968. (after 1982) 5,800–6,000 rubles.
    • 💰 ZAZ-968M (after 1986) - before 6,500 rubles.

    For comparison, the average salary in the USSR in the 1980s was about 150-200 rubles a month. That meant that for the purchase ZAZ-968. I had to save 3-4 years. Alternative methods of acquisition:

    • 📝 Line at the factory. You could stand in line directly at ZAZ, but the wait took 2-5 years.
    • 🤝 Through the union. Companies sometimes received cars for their employees at discounted prices.
    • 🌍 Imports from the GDR or Czechoslovakia. There. ZAZ-968. branded Jalta It was cheaper than in the USSR.

    Interesting fact: in some regions of the USSR (for example, in Siberia) ZAZ-968. They were given to young families as a gift from the state at the birth of their third child. This was part of the birth rate program.

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    ZAZ-968 remains one of the most affordable retro cars for collectors. Today it can be bought for 100,000-300,000 rubles depending on the condition, while the VAZ-2101 of the same year will cost 2-3 times more expensive.

    FAQ: Frequent questions about ZAZ-968

    Can I put on the ZAZ-968 engine from Oka or Tavria?

    Technically possible, but it will require major improvements. Engine. MeMZ-245 from ZAZ-1102 "Tavria" (1.1 L, 53 hp) is better than the engine from the Okey.But you need to change the mounts, the exhaust system and adjust the electrics. Many owners prefer to leave their native MeMZ-968 And to carry out its overhaul is cheaper and more reliable.

    What kind of gasoline to pour in ZAZ-968?

    The manufacturer recommended AI-93But in practice, many people poured AI-76 or AI-80. Modern. AI-92 It is ideally suited, as it has similar characteristics to the Soviet AI-93. Important: due to air cooling, low-octane fuel cannot be allowed to work - this leads to detonation and overheating.

    Why is the ZAZ-968 so bad uphill?

    Main reasons:

    1. Small torque of the engine (total) 82 Nmm at 3000 rpm.
    2. High center of gravity due to the rear position of the motor.
    3. Short gear ratios in the box (in gear 4, the speeds fall too quickly).

    To improve the dynamics, some owners install a main pair with a gear ratio. 4,44 standard 4,22.

    Where can I find spare parts for the ZAZ-968 today?

    Principal sources:

    • 🛒 Online shops: “Retro spare parts”, “AutosSR”, groups in social networks (for example, “Zaporozhets and Tavria – spare parts”).
    • 🏗️ Disassembly: In Ukraine (Zaporizhia, Kiev) and Russia (Moscow, St. Petersburg) there are still disassemblies of Soviet cars.
    • 🔧 Homemade analogues: Some parts (for example, Silentblocks or springs) can be adapted from the VAZ classics.

    The most scarce parts: original moldings, steering racks and carburetors K-126N.

    How many ZAZ-968 have they produced in the past?

    Between 1979 and 1994, the approximately 1.2 million copies modifications ZAZ-968.. The exact figures vary, as some of the documentation was lost after the collapse of the USSR. The peak of production fell on 1985-1989, when every year from the conveyor went down to 100,000 cars.