Perhaps better known for its famous roles in such works as the Prague Spring and the 40th Armies' visit to Kabul in 1979, the UAZ 469 has been, since 1973, the Soviet/Russian Armies answer to the American Jeep, and the British Defender. As are most Soviet-built machines and grandmothers, the 469 is crudely, yet strongly built. This simple design is built to tackle difficult environments, and, evidently, is made to be fixed with little technical knowledge or sobriety.Interestingly, this lovely truck has been featured in recent news, both as a tempting reward for sexy Russian population growth, and as a symptom of the current economic climate.
In Georgia, this vehicle continues to plod along pitted country roads, one day carrying a family, food, and wine to a Supra, and perhaps serving as the town's hearse the next. Though there were several models produced, the majority seat 5, come with a convertible top and canvas seats. Much like other populist people-movers, such as the citroen 2Cv, the VW beetle, Lada, or Fiat Cinquecento, the 469 remains a popular standby with gear-heads the world over, though most are not adorned with classy Russian hood ornaments like this one:
As far as I can tell, there have been few - if any - long range trips orchestrated in recent years with the UAZ, but I would like to believe that this omission is due to the fact that this endeavor is considered too pleasant an idea to enact, instead of the mega-frustrating sweat-fest this may turn out to be. Stay Tuned for more information about logistics, landscapes, and our itinerary. VOTE EARLY AND VOTE OFTEN!
