GAZ GAZ-M20 Pobeda

GAZ

GAZ-M20 Pobeda: the Soviet classic, versions and what to know before buying

The GAZ-M20 Pobeda is a Soviet passenger car produced from 1946 to 1958 at the Gorky Automobile Plant and became one of the first mass-produced cars in the USSR with a unitary body. In this article, we'll look at its versions, technology, and what you need to know if you're considering buying this classic car.

Pobeda in brief

The name 'Pobeda' means 'victory'. The car was designed at the end of World War II and started production in 1946. Its sloping rear and unitary body were modern for the Soviet market of that time.

The Pobeda was produced until 1958. Today, it is valued as a historic car, often seen at classic car shows and in collections. Under license, this model was also produced in Poland by FSO, who named it the Warszawa.

Which version to choose

First-series cars (up to 1955) are known for their original design and older technology. This is the most collectible version if the original body and interior are intact.

The later M-20V version (around 1955–1958) features an updated grille design and improvements. Rare modifications include the convertible and the all-wheel-drive M-72, which used the Pobeda body with off-road technology.

Engine and transmission

The Pobeda has a four-cylinder, approximately 2.1-litre petrol engine with around 50 horsepower. It's simple, reliable, and easy to maintain, but by today's standards, it's quite slow.

Gearbox — manual, three-speed, with a shift lever on the steering column. Operation requires getting used to, and the brakes are relatively weak compared to modern standards.

What to check when buying a used Pobeda

The main issue — rust. Inspect the sills, floor, wheel arches, door bottoms, and front panel. A unibody is harder to restore than a body-on-frame, so rust spots can be costly.

Check the condition of the engine and gearbox, electrical system, brakes, and steering mechanism. Many cars have been restored, so look for originality and what parts have been replaced. Documents should match the body and engine numbers.

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Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly found trims in Europe.

M-20

1946–1955

First series Pobeda with its original look.

Approximately 2.1-litre engine, around 50 hp
Three-speed manual gearbox
Original early headlight design

M-20V

Around 1955–1958

Later, updated series.

Updated front end
Minor technical improvements
Easier to find than the early model

Kabrioletas

A rare variant

Convertible version

Fabric sunroof
Very rare
Highly valued by collectors

M-72

1955–1958

All-wheel-drive version, based on the Pobeda

All-wheel drive
Higher ride height
A rare variant

Comparing Pobeda versions

	M-20	M-20V	Kabrioletas	M-72
Who it's for	For collectors	For enthusiasts	For car enthusiasts	For road trippers
Body style	Saloon	Saloon	Convertible	Saloon
Transmission	Rear-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	All-wheel drive
Rare	Average	Less common	Large	Large
Price in the used market (relatively)	Mid-range	Mid-range	High-end	High-end

Most buyers' best bet is a solid-bodied M-20 or M-20V. The cabriolet and M-72 are for collectors, as they are rare and expensive.

Pros

Historical significance and unique styling
Simple, easily serviced technology
An eye-catching show and event car
A robust body and spacious interior for its time

Cons

Very slow by today's standards
Weak brakes and basic comfort
Risk of rust and expensive restoration

Frequently asked questions

What does 'Pobeda' mean?

In Russian, it means 'victory'. The name is linked to World War II, after which the car was created.

Is the Pobeda suitable for daily use?

Rarely: it's slow, has weak brakes, and little modern comfort. It's usually used for shows, events, and as a collector's item.

What makes the Pobeda special?

It's one of the first Soviet cars with a unitary body. It was also produced in Poland under license as the FSO Warszawa.

Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically

Generations