GAZ 12 ZIM
The Soviet Union's first unibody executive limousine, bridging the gap between the Pobeda and the ZIS.
- Power
- 95 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 37.0 s
- Top speed
- 78 mph
- Est. value
- $15k–$195k
About the GAZ 12 ZIM
Introduced in 1950, the GAZ-12 ZIM was the first executive car produced by the Gorky Automobile Plant, designed to transport mid-level Soviet officials. It was technically advanced for its time, featuring a unibody construction—a rarity for a car of its size—and a fluid coupling in the transmission that allowed for smoother starts and the ability to stop in gear. While its styling was heavily influenced by late-1940s American Buicks and Cadillacs, it was an original Soviet design led by Andrei Lipgart. Uniquely for a Soviet limousine, it was also available for private purchase, though its high price made it a rare sight in private hands.
GAZ 12 ZIM specs
The GAZ 12 ZIM produces 95 bhp (71 kW) and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 37.0 seconds and has a top speed of 78 mph (126 km/h).
| Make | GAZ |
|---|---|
| Model | 12 ZIM |
| Trim | 3.5 |
| Years | 1950–1960 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Soviet Union |
| Production | About 21,527 built |
| Engine | 3.5-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,485 cc (3.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 95 bhp (71 kW) at 3,600 rpm |
| Torque | 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 37.0 s |
| Top speed | 78 mph (126 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual with fluid coupling |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,940 kg (4,277 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 49 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a GAZ 12 ZIM worth?
A typical GAZ 12 ZIM is estimated to be worth $15,000 – $195,000 (about £11,000 – £145,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
GAZ 12 ZIM rarity in CarSpot
The GAZ 12 ZIM is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 54 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
GAZ 12 ZIM fun facts
- The ZIM was the first GAZ model to feature the famous leaping gazelle hood ornament, which later became a symbol of the brand.
- To accommodate three passengers comfortably in the back, the rear track was designed to be 100mm wider than the front track.
- The 'ZIM' acronym stands for Zavod Imeni Molotova, named after Vyacheslav Molotov, though the name was changed to GAZ-12 in 1957 after his political fall.