The unsuccessful revival of the UAZ-469

In 1996, the Gorky Automobile Plant team began developing a modern SUV designed to revive the glory of the legendary GAZ-69, the production of which was transferred to UAZ back in the 1960s. As a result of this program, the experimental model “Ataman” with four-wheel drive was created. This car, designated GAZ-3106, was first presented to the public at the Moscow Motor Show in 1999. It was based on the first generation “Ataman” (1995–2001), but its base was shortened to 2820 mm, and the brake mechanism and gearbox were very similar to those installed in the “Sobol” minibuses (serially produced after 1999). In addition, the designers of “Ataman-II” developed a new transfer case, a locking center differential and a reduction ratio of 2.68. This provides increased traction and a significant reduction in cabin noise. To ensure better off-road performance, an independent front and rear suspension is installed. The seats are arranged in three rows with space for seven people. The driver's and front passenger's seats are equipped with inertial seat belts and head restraints. The Ataman's fuel tank is traditionally located in the frame. This technical solution not only improves the passive safety of the car, but also allows for a lower passenger compartment floor piese auto online.

The unsuccessful revival of the UAZ-469

The 5-cylinder diesel engine GAZ-561 (produced under license from Steyr) develops 141 horsepower at 3500 rpm. It is also planned to create modifications equipped with foreign engines from Iveco and Toyota. In contrast to its conventional technical indicators, the Ataman is distinguished by a strange design that can hardly be attributed to a specific category. However, it is not the only prototype of the plant that looks like this. In the late 90s, GAZ made an experimental series of about 400 passenger cars "Volga" (GAZ-3103 and GAZ-3111), which are distinguished by characteristic retro elements, such as large "flanks" on the rear fenders (a parallel to the GAZ-21) and an abundance of chrome. The elliptical headlights and brake lights, which are surrounded by massive chrome rings, as well as the abundantly chrome-plated radiator grille, are particularly impressive. These associative references to the past are also evident in the design of the Ataman, but the visual effect achieved is somewhat controversial. This artistic blunder was taken into account and soon another Ataman was presented with a completely changed front end with a much more conventional and easy-to-understand look. This variant, whose serial production was supposed to start in 2006, however, also remained only at the prototype level.

Car parts AutoPower
Car parts AutoPower

The 5-cylinder diesel engine GAZ-561 (produced under license from Steyr) develops 141 horsepower at 3500 rpm