In Grodno, Belarus, work has been completed on an unusual automotive project — a hybrid combining elements of the classic GAZ-21 "Volga", Bugatti Chiron design solutions, and the technical base of the BMW E63. The creation of the car, unofficially named "Volgatti", took three and a half years and over $100,000.
The project is based on a BMW E63 body with a 300-horsepower V8 gasoline engine. The power unit retained its rear-wheel drive layout, providing dynamic acceleration. The body panels, imitating the front of the "Volga" and the rear section of the Bugatti, are made of fiberglass — a material resistant to corrosion and deformation. For accurate reproduction of the lines, foam models were used, from which matrices were taken for molding.
Grodno engineers equipped the car with an air suspension, allowing adjustment of ground clearance, and custom 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels. A wide hot-rod-style windshield and miniature rear-view mirrors emphasize the retro-futuristic look. To improve visibility, it is planned to install a surround-view system with cameras.
One of the key tasks was the synchronization of electronic systems. The developers are creating software to control the active rear spoiler, which automatically rises at speeds above 100 km/h, increasing downforce. Frameless doors with an aluminum base and fiberglass inserts required precise adjustment of gaps — the deviation does not exceed 1 mm.
The main difficulty of the project is the legalization of the car for public roads. In Belarus, the procedure for registering such structures is associated with bureaucratic obstacles, but the authors are considering the possibility of certification in other countries. In mass production, the cost of "Volgatti" will be about $120,000, including paperwork.
Read more on the topic:
Post-Soviet rarity with a stylish interior: GAZ-31029 "Volga" for sale in Tolyatti
Reimagined "Volga": Russian designer presents a business sedan with a classic style
Rare "Volga" for the needs of the KGB for sale in Yekaterinburg
