Review of GAZ 3221

GAZ 3221 is a front-wheel-drive minibus built on a frame chassis. It is produced serially at the Gorky Automobile Plant since 1996. During this period, the car has undergone many changes (in 2003 and in 2010). The novelty is able to accommodate a different number of passengers (depending on the body kit) - from eight to twelve.

At the peak of popularity

For 17 years the GAZ 3221 has been traveling along Russian expanses. The car has long won the country's market due to its simple design, low price and high running characteristics. At the moment, this model can be seen on urban routes in any city. Also, the machine can be used as a tourist carrier.

Modifications

Depending on the further application, the novelty can be completed with various additional tools. For example, a minibus for transportation of schoolchildren can be supplied with a loudspeaker, footsteps for a comfortable landing, an alarm button, and shelves for portfolios. If GAZelle is used as an ambulance, respectively, it is supplied with other equipment (flashers and so on). Also there is a four-wheel drive modification (4x4) - GAZ 32217 408.

Load capacity

The car can transport up to 11 passengers with a total baggage up to 300 kilograms (total cargo capacity without passengers - up to 1500 kilograms) according to passport data. For the versatility of the novelty is equipped with swing doors from the rear.

What is included in the basic configuration?

It includes sixteen-inch wheels, a heating and ventilation system , an anti-lock braking system , a safety belt for the driver and a built-in sunroof. The placement of airbags is not provided. As additional options, the buyer can choose seats of increased comfort, equipped with headrests and armrests (ideal for a tourist bus). It is also possible to install the power steering.

Suspension

A suspension bracket at a minibus dependent, spring type with hydraulic shock-absorbers. Brake system of disk-drum type.

GAZ 3221. Technical specifications

In terms of technical characteristics, the new product is equipped with a 106-horsepower gasoline engine of the ZMZ brand with a working capacity of 2.9 liters. Its torque is 220 Nm. It works together with a mechanical transmission on 5 steps. The maximum speed of the minibus is 140 kilometers per hour. The average fuel consumption is 10.5 liters per 100 kilometers of run. But, as the reviews say, in fact, the machine "eats" 14-16 liters of gasoline. The new GAZelle-Business, developed in 2010, in addition to ZMZ, is equipped with the American diesel engine Cummins ISF. Its power is 120 horsepower, and the torque - 297 Nm. At the same time its service life is 2 times more than that of the Zavolzhsky engine - 500 thousand kilometers.

GAZ 3221 - price

The minimum cost of a new car in the basic configuration is about 550 thousand rubles. Basically, the price of a minibus depends on the brand of your engine (petrol or diesel).