Auto sales were growing rapidly until exorbitant import tariffs in 1994 cut deeply into sales of imported cars from authorized dealers. Tariffs are now about 10%. There are authorized dealers, service and parts for virtually all Western manufacturers including Mercedes (most popular) , BMW, Ford, Honda, Chrysler, and GM.
New Russian cars are ruggedly built for Russian roads and gasoline. Some prices as of October, 1996: Moskvich 214: $7,000; NIVA: $9,700-12,000; Zhiguli: $6,700-12,000 depending on the model; GAZ Volga (standard taxi): $9,800; UAZ Jeep (like militia's): $9,300-11,500. In contrast, new Ford Scorpius: $30,000, Jeep Cherokee $34,000, VW's: from $13,000-18,000, Volvo $25,000-30,000, Hyundai $16,000, Toyota $25,000-47,000, etc. plus value added tax. These prices are beyond the means of most Russians. Try the Russian NIVA for a four wheel drive vehicle.
Imported cars should be modified for the Russian market, especially stronger shock absorbers and carburetor adjustment for Russian gasoline. Lead-free gasoline is difficult to find, so it is best not to have a catalytic converter.
"Consignment auto sales" means that the firm accepts used cars from their owners to sell "on consignment."
Usual hours: Mo-Fr 9-19
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