This weekend, Muscovites got the chance to witness the best of the Soviet Union’s automobile legacy as 100 Zhiguli sedans raced in the annual GUM AutoRally on Saturday.

This year’s event marked 50 years since the release of Zhiguli’s first model, VAZ-2101, commonly known as ‘Kopeyka’ (named after the smallest ruble coin, the kopek).

Here’s a look at the nostalgia-filled festivities: While the cars’ Soviet exteriors never go out of style, most of the cars participating in the race have had a technical upgrade. Sergei Vedyashkin / Moskva News Agency The cars of the 1970s contrast with Moscow City’s hyper-modern skyscrapers. Sergei Vedyashkin / Moskva News Agency The 80-kilometer race began near the Kremlin… Sergei Vedyashkin / Moskva News Agency Then passed major attractions such as the Frunze Embankment, Sokolniki Park and VDNKh. Sergei Vedyashkin / Moskva News Agency Even iconic police vehicles made an appearance. Sergei Vedyashkin / Moskva News Agency AvtoVAZ President Yves Karakatzanis led the race. French Ambassador to Russia Pierre Levy was also reportedly among the participants. Sergei Vedyashkin / Moskva News Agency Many drivers donned their best vintage attire for the occasion. Sergei Vedyashkin / Moskva News Agency The most desired possession in the Soviet Union, Zhiguli cars are still near and dear to all Russians. Sergei Vedyashkin / Moskva News Agency

(c) The Moscow Times