Russian president Vladimir Putin has decided to replace current Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedans with a new ZiL limousine. However, a problem immediately occurs as ZiL has not made a passenger vehicle for approximately eight years (they only make trucks) and they don't have any modern armoured vehicle know-how.

The limo in these photos was built six years ago and only one unit exists. During an initial test drive, the doors did not close correctly while the wipers broke.

This six-door limousine is allegedly powered by a 7.7-liter fuel-injection gasoline engine connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It outputs 400 hp (298 kW) and returns only 3.61 mpg US (4.34 mpg UK or 65 liters / 100 km).

Needless to say, this isn’t the limo that Putin wants since he’ll be spending a lot of time at gas stations, while holding the door tightly shut.

Gallery: Putin wants to replace S-Class sedans with new ZiL limo

Top comments

There are no comments at the moment. Would you like to write one?
Comment!
Got a tip for us? Email: tips@motor1.com