The film “Vacation” (2023) has become one of the most discussed domestic comedy projects in recent years, and its main “hero” - a car - attracted the attention of not only film lovers, but also car enthusiasts. Viewers remembered the bright, unusual car, which became a symbol of the adventures of the main characters. But what kind of model is this really? Where can you see it in real life, and how much does such a rarity cost?
In this article we will look at all technical details car from the film, including engine, body and modification history. You will find out why the directors chose this particular car, how it behaved during filming and what legal nuances related to its use today. And for those who dream of acquiring a similar copy, we have prepared practical advice on search and purchase - from auctions to private collections.
Spoiler: this car is not just a background for the plot, but a full-fledged character with a unique story. And if you think that this is an ordinary Zhigul or Volga, then you are very mistaken!
What car was used in the movie "Vacation"?
The main car of the film is ZAZ-968M “Zaporozhets”, but not as standard. Prepared for filming unique modification with a bright design that immediately catches the eye. The car is painted in neon green with black accents - this shade was chosen specifically to emphasize the eccentricity of the characters and contrast with the gray roads of Russia.
It is interesting that “Zaporozhets” in the film is not a random choice. Director Zhora Kryzhovnikov in an interview he said that he wanted to show a “chameleon car”: on the one hand, it is a Soviet classic, and on the other, a modern art object. For this purpose the body was modified:
- 🔧 Installed extended wheel arches for a more aggressive look;
- 🎨 Applied matte paint with a “chameleon” effect (changes shade at different angles);
- 💡 Added
LED backlightunder the bottom and in the cabin; - 🔊 The audio system has been upgraded with a subwoofer in the trunk.
It remained under the hood original MeMZ-968M engine volume 1.2 l and power 40 hp. — it is he who creates that “unique sound” that many viewers remember from the film. The transmission is a 4-speed manual, and the maximum speed does not exceed 120 km/h (which, however, did not stop the heroes from racing along the highways).
Technical characteristics of ZAZ-968M from the film
To understand what the car from “Vacation” is capable of, let’s take it apart technical parameters more details. Basic model ZAZ-968M It was produced from 1979 to 1994, but the copy for the film underwent a deep modernization. Below is a comparison table of the “stock” version and the movie version:
| Parameter | ZAZ-968M (serial) | ZAZ-968M (“Vacation”) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | MeMZ-968M, 1.2 l, 40 hp. | MeMZ-968M (modified inlet/outlet) |
| Gearbox | 4-speed manual | 4-speed manual transmission (short gears) |
| Suspension | Dependent, spring | Reinforced shock absorbers, lowered by 30 mm |
| Brakes | Drum (all wheels) | Disc front, drum rear |
| Weight | 950 kg | 980 kg (due to body reinforcement) |
The film pays special attention to engine sound. To make it more “expressive”, the film crew installed forward flow with a modified resonator. This gave a characteristic “growl” at high speeds, which many viewers mistook for the sound of a much more powerful engine. In fact, the dynamics of acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 22 seconds - a typical indicator for Soviet low-power cars.
If you want to replicate the sound of the car from the movie, pay attention to the mufflers from VAZ-2108 with modified perforation - they give a similar timbre.
There are also changes in the interior:
- 🎛️ Dashboard from VAZ-2106 with digital clock;
- 🎵 Audio system Pioneer with Bluetooth (hidden under the original lining);
- 🪑 Seats from Ford Fiesta (more ergonomic than standard ones).
Why does the car break down so often in the film?
This was a special technique in the script - the director wanted to show the “soul” of the Soviet car, which “wakes up” in extreme situations. In fact, the shooting copy was prepared so that breakdowns could be simulated without real repairs (for example, the fuel pump was turned off remotely).
Where is the car from the movie now?
After filming was completed, the car was not scrapped - it became part of prop collections film companies "Jack of Diamonds". According to the producer, the car has been restored and is now used at exhibitions and festivals dedicated to the film. For example, in 2026 it could be seen on:
- 📍 Moscow Motor Show "Retro-Moto" (January 2026);
- 🎬 Festival "Kinotavr" in Sochi (June 2026);
- 🚗 Exhibition “Autolegends of the USSR”** in St. Petersburg (August 2026).
Unfortunately, the car not for sale — it is assessed as a museum exhibit. However, there are several ways to see it live:
- Visit one of the listed exhibitions (the schedule is published on the website
kinokult.ru). - Write a request to the film company through their official website — sometimes private screenings are organized for fans.
- Follow announcements in the film group VKontakte — they publish information about the car’s city tours.
The car from the film is not a serial copy, but a unique art object. Its purchase is unlikely, but you can order a similar replica from a tuning studio.
How much does such a “Zaporozhets” cost today?
If you dream of a car identical to the one in the movie, you'll have to work hard. Serial ZAZ-968M in good condition today costs from 150,000 to 300,000 rubles, but this will be the standard version without modifications. To repeat the movie version, you will need:
| Modification stage | Cost (RUB) | Where to order |
|---|---|---|
| Chameleon painting | 80 000 – 120 000 | Automotive workshop (for example, ColorDrive) |
| Installation of LED lighting | 15 000 – 30 000 | Tuning workshops |
| Engine modification (intake/exhaust) | 50 000 – 100 000 | Specialized service stations (for example, RetroMotor) |
| Replacement of interior (seats, panel) | 60 000 – 150 000 | Retro car experts |
Total full replica will cost 400,000 – 700,000 rubles, depending on the condition of the donor car and the level of modifications. Finished similar specimens are extremely rare on the secondary market - they are usually sold by collectors at auctions (for example, Avito or Drom in the “Retro Auto” section).
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a Zaporozhets, check PTS for restrictions. Many examples are listed as “rare”, and their operation requires a special insurance policy (OSAGO for retro cars).
Legal nuances: is it possible to drive such a car today?
Operation ZAZ-968M in 2026 is associated with a number legal subtleties. Firstly, the car belongs to the category "retro cars", which imposes special conditions:
- 📄 Registration is required traffic police marked “Collectible vehicle”;
- 💰 Insurance OSAGO will cost 30–40% more due to its rarity status;
- 🚦 Technical inspection takes place once every
2 years(instead of the standard 1 year); - 🛣️ It is prohibited to use the machine for commercial transportation.
Secondly, modifications (such as color, suspension or engine changes) must be registered with the traffic police. Otherwise, when stopped by an inspector, they may issue a fine of up to 5,000 rubles for “inconsistency of design.” To avoid problems:
Original title without any disposal marks|
Certificate of registration with current data|
Documents for all modifications (if any)|
Absence of prohibitions on registration actions (checked through traffic police.rf)-->
Pay special attention environmental class. ZAZ-968M complies with the standard Euro-0, which in some regions (for example, in Moscow) prohibits entry into the city center without special permission. Before purchasing, check the rules in your city!
Where else can you see cars from the movie “Vacation”?
In addition to the main “Zaporozhets”, the film also features other cars that have also become part of pop culture. Here's where you can find them:
| Car model | Role in the film | Where to see today |
|---|---|---|
| VAZ-2106 (yellow) | The "antagonist" machine | Private collections, sometimes Avito |
| UAZ-469 (camouflage) | Auto foresters | Museum of Technology in Verkhnyaya Pyshma |
| GAZ-24 "Volga" (black) | Boss's car | Exhibition “Autolegends of the USSR” |
I wonder what VAZ-2106 from the film was specially “aged” for filming - rust and scratches were artificially added to it. Today this copy is kept in one of the actors' garage and is sometimes rented out for photo shoots.
If you want to see all the cars from the film in one place, follow the announcements themed fan meetings. For example, in 2026 the event “Vacations on Wheels” is planned in Moscow region, where all the key cars of the tape will be presented.
How to make such a “Zaporozhets” with your own hands?
If you're ready to recreate the car from the movie yourself, here's step by step plan:
- Find a donor. Search ZAZ-968M in good condition (no through corrosion) on Drom, Avito or in retro car clubs. Average price -
150,000–250,000 rubles. - Prepare the body. Remove old paint and fill dents. To paint the “chameleon” use materials PPG or Sikkens (price per liter - from
10,000 rubles). - Upgrade the engine. Install
zero filter, modify the intake manifold and install forward flow. This will add ~5–7 hp. and improve the sound. - Update the interior. Seats from Ford Fiesta or Opel Corsa fit in size. The dashboard can be ordered from specialists 3D printing (for example, on Kwork).
- Register your changes. After modifications, go through technical expertise and enter the data into the PTS.
The whole process will take 3–6 months and about 500,000 rubles (including the purchase of a donor). If you are not confident in your abilities, contact specialized studios, for example:
- 🔧 RetroCar Studio (Moscow) - full range of works;
- 🎨 AutoArt (St. Petersburg) - painting and tuning;
- 🔊 SoundExtreme (Ekaterinburg) - audio systems for retro cars.
⚠️ Attention: When installing LED lighting, make sure it is certified for road use. Uncertified equipment may result in a fine 3,000 rubles (Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the car from the movie "Vacation"
Is it possible to buy the original car from the movie?
No, the original copy is not for sale - it is in the collection of the film company and is used at exhibitions. However, you can order an exact replica from a tuning studio or assemble it yourself.
How much horsepower does the movie car have?
Base engine MeMZ-968M issues 40 hp, but after modifications (intake, exhaust, chip tuning) the power increases to 45–50 hp. This is a slight increase, but the sound becomes louder and “sportier”.
What kind of gearbox does the Zaporozhets from the film have?
The film uses the standard 4-speed manual from ZAZ-968M, but with shortened gear ratios for better dynamics. The gears are difficult to engage - this is a feature of the model.
Is it possible to drive such a car in winter?
Technically yes, but with caveats:
- 🔥 Engine MeMZ-968M does not warm up well at idle - it is recommended to insulate the radiator;
- ❄️ The rear wheels skid easily in the snow (you will have to carry chains or spikes);
- 🔋 The battery is weak - in the cold the starter may not turn over.
For winter use it is better to install preheater (for example, Webasto).
Where can I watch the movie "Vacation" with this car?
The film is available on platforms:
- 🎬 Kinopoisk HD (rent or purchase);
- 📺 Okko (in the section “Domestic Cinema”);
- 💿 IVI (sometimes available for free).
The film is also periodically shown on TV on channels TNT and STS.