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GAZ-64: the first Soviet light off-roader and its place in history
The GAZ-64 is a light military off-roader created by the Gorky Automobile Plant (GAZ) that debuted in 1941. It paved the way for the GAZ-67, making it a highly rare museum piece today. In this article, we'll explore the model's unique features and what you need to know if you encounter such a vehicle.
GAZ-64 in brief
The GAZ-64 is a compact open off-roader with four-wheel drive, a simple boxy body, and minimal equipment. It was designed as a light reconnaissance and staff car, capable of handling rough roads.
The car was produced in very limited numbers, and its design was further developed into the GAZ-67. Today, finding a GAZ-64 for sale is almost impossible — you'll typically only see it in museums.
Why it matters
The model was produced in a single generation with no trim levels: it's simply a basic military vehicle. Its value lies in its historical significance — it showed what a light Soviet off-roader should look like.
If this type of vehicle catches your eye, a more practical choice for a collector would be the later GAZ-67, which is much easier to find.
Engine and transmission
The GAZ-64 was powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine with around 54 hp. It's a straightforward, low-revving engine used in other GAZ cars of the time.
The transmission is manual, with a transfer case and four-wheel drive. The body is open, with limited protection from the elements.
What to know if you're looking for such a car
Real GAZ-64s are incredibly rare, so most of the cars on offer are replicas, conversions, or cobbled together from parts of other vehicles. Before buying, definitely consult an expert in this type of car and check the documents.
If you're considering examples, inspect the chassis, body panels, engine, gearbox, and axles. Original parts are almost non-existent, so they often need to be manufactured or restored.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
GAZ-64
1941–1942 model yearsThe sole version is a basic open military off-roader.
- Full-time four-wheel drive
- Four-cylinder petrol engine
- Open body with minimal equipment
GAZ-64 vs GAZ-67 comparison
| GAZ-64 | GAZ-67 | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Museums and collectors | Collectors and events |
| Transmission | Full-time four-wheel drive | Full-time four-wheel drive |
| Offer | Hardly any | Very limited |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€ |
The GAZ-64 is almost exclusively a museum piece. A simpler and more accessible choice for the collector is the GAZ-67.
Pros
- Rare historical value
- Simple, sturdy construction
- Full-time four-wheel drive
- Important part of Soviet automotive industry
Cons
- Offer is practically non-existent
- Parts are almost impossible to find
- Many replicas, hard to assess originality
Frequently asked questions
Can you buy a GAZ-64?
Practically no: there are very few original cars, most are in museums. Offered examples are often replicas.
How does the GAZ-64 differ from the GAZ-67?
The GAZ-67 is the later, more widely produced model, developed further from the ideas of the GAZ-64.
Does the GAZ-64 have four-wheel drive?
Yes, it was a light off-roader with four-wheel drive.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
