GAZ 69 Specs, Engines & Dimensions (1953–1972) — First Generation
The GAZ 69 First Generation is a rugged Soviet-era light off-roader, built as an open SUV cabriolet with a folding soft top, simple mechanicals and genuine go-anywhere ability rather than road comfort.
The GAZ 69 engine is a large, low-revving gasoline unit tuned for pulling power at low speeds instead of outright pace. The 2.1 MT example pairs it with a manual gearbox and all-wheel drive, a drivetrain that suits mud, snow and broken tracks far better than highway cruising.