ZIL ZIL-4104 series History

The ZIL-4104 and its successors represented the apex and final chapter of Soviet/Russian state limousine production. Introduced in 1978 as the replacement for the ZIL-114, the 4104 was built under conditions of strict secrecy enforced by a KGB division whose staff swore confidentiality oaths. Production estimates suggest no more than 50 cars per year across all variants, with approximately 106 total 4104-series vehicles.

The defining feature was the massive 7.7-liter (470 cu in) pushrod V8 engine — one of the largest ever fitted to a passenger car — producing 315 hp and 610 Nm of torque, driving the rear wheels via a two-speed (later three-speed) automatic. Security features included laminated windscreens with claimed radiation protection, dual ignition systems, dual batteries, and dual fuel pumps. The interior was appointed with 10 mm Karelian birch paneling, calf leather, and a Riga radio receiver.

Three major sub-variants followed in succession: the base ZIL-4104 (1978–1983), the restyled ZIL-41045 (1983–1985), and the ZIL-41047 (1985–2002), which became the longest-running and last of the line. The ZIL-41047 saw service under both Soviet General Secretaries and early Russian presidents; approximately 200 were built in total across the 41047 run alone. An armored ZIL-4105 ran alongside the base model, and a rare two-door convertible (ZIL-41044) was also produced.