UAZ 31512 2.45 (90 Hp)

The UAZ 31512 2.45, producing 90 horsepower, is a classic Soviet-era off-road vehicle manufactured by UAZ (Ulyanovsky Automobile Plant) from 1989 to 2005. A direct descendant of the original UAZ-469, developed in the 1950s, the 31512 represents a significant evolution of a vehicle originally designed for military use, adapted for civilian applications. While never officially exported to the United States, the UAZ 31512 and its predecessors gained a cult following among off-road enthusiasts globally due to their rugged simplicity, exceptional off-road capability, and affordability. It primarily served the Soviet Union and Eastern European markets, filling a niche similar to the early Jeep or Land Rover – a utilitarian vehicle capable of traversing challenging terrain.

UAZ 31512: A Legacy of Ruggedness

The UAZ 31512 is characterized by its body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of durable, off-road capable vehicles. It was intended as a versatile vehicle for both rural and urban use, capable of handling everything from farm work to family transportation. The “31512” designation indicates a specific iteration within the 3151 series, denoting improvements in comfort and features compared to earlier models. These improvements, while modest by modern standards, included refinements to the interior and some mechanical upgrades. The vehicle’s enduring appeal lies in its straightforward design and ease of maintenance, making it popular in regions where access to specialized repair facilities is limited.

Engine & Performance

The UAZ 31512 2.45 is powered by the ZMZ 4021.10 inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, displacing 2.45 liters (149.51 cubic inches). This engine produces 90 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 172 Nm (126.86 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2200 rpm. While not a powerhouse by contemporary standards, the engine’s torque output, combined with the vehicle’s low-range gearing, provides ample capability for off-road driving. The engine features a carburettor fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 7:1. The power-to-weight ratio is 17.7 kg/Hp (56.6 Hp/tonne), and the torque-to-weight ratio is 9.2 kg/Nm (108.2 Nm/tonne). The vehicle’s top speed is approximately 115 km/h (71.46 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 13 liters per 100 kilometers in urban conditions (approximately 18.1 US mpg or 21.7 UK mpg).

Design & Features

The UAZ 31512 retains the iconic boxy silhouette of its predecessors, a design dictated by its utilitarian purpose. It is a five-door, seven-seat off-road vehicle with a longitudinal front-engine layout. The body-on-frame construction contributes to its robustness, but also results in a relatively harsh ride quality compared to modern unibody SUVs. The vehicle’s high ground clearance and four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing are its defining features, enabling it to navigate challenging terrain. Interior appointments are spartan, prioritizing functionality over luxury. Safety features are minimal by today’s standards, consisting primarily of a basic drum braking system on all four wheels and, in later models, the inclusion of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4025 mm (158.46 in), width 1785 mm (70.28 in), height 1990 mm (78.35 in), and wheelbase 2380 mm (93.7 in).

Technical Specifications

The UAZ 31512, while technologically outdated by modern standards, remains a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, robust, and capable off-road vehicles. Its legacy continues through updated UAZ models, which retain the brand’s commitment to providing affordable and dependable transportation in challenging environments.