1985 UAZ 31512-01 Dimensions, Size & Specs

The UAZ 31512-01 has a curb weight of 1570 kg (3462 lbs), which refers to the standard operating weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo. Its maximum permissible weight is 2130 kg (4694 lbs), indicating the heaviest total load including passengers, cargo, and any additional accessories that the vehicle can safely handle.

Standard rims on the UAZ 31512-01 are sized 6J x 15 inches, outfitted with tires sized 215 SR15. These tire and rim specifications are designed to balance off-road capability with ride comfort, providing strong traction for rugged terrain while maintaining reasonable stability on paved roads.

Standard garages typically have a width of about 2.4 meters (94.5 inches), a height of approximately 2.1 to 2.4 meters (82.7 to 94.5 inches), and a depth of around 4.8 to 6 meters (189 to 236 inches). With a width of 1785 mm (70.3 inches), height of 1990 mm (78.3 inches), and length of 4025 mm (158.3 inches), the UAZ 31512-01 fits comfortably within the standard garage size parameters, especially in terms of width and length. Its height is also compatible but close to lower height limits of some garages, so it fits well in most but not all.

Compared to its predecessor, the UAZ 31512-01 offered modest updates but retained the practical off-road dimensions. The previous generation had similar length and width, making the 31512-01's 4025 mm length and 1785 mm width largely consistent with earlier variants. The height around 1990 mm remained stable, preserving interior headroom and ground clearance. Overall, while maintaining the rugged profile, the newer generation fine-tuned some body and mechanical aspects but kept similar external size to ensure off-road capability and ease of maneuverability.

When compared to other 1980s off-road vehicles like the Jeep Cherokee XJ or Land Rover Defender 90, the UAZ 31512-01 is relatively compact but taller. For instance, the Jeep Cherokee measured roughly 4,300 mm in length and 1,740 mm width and weighed about 1,600 kg, making the UAZ a bit shorter, wider, and taller. The UAZ's curb weight of 1570 kg is competitive, and its rugged, high ground clearance design emphasizes off-road prowess over luxury or on-road performance, contrasting with some Western SUVs that leaned slightly towards on-road comfort.

Thanks to its boxy design and a height of 1990 mm (78.3 inches), the UAZ 31512-01 provides decent headroom and a spacious feel inside the cabin relative to its overall compact footprint of 4025 mm length and 1785 mm width. The interior is utilitarian, optimized for function, offering practical seating for passengers and room for cargo. However, compared to more modern SUVs, the interior lacks advanced amenities but excels in ruggedness and usable space due to its straightforward layout and vertical sides.

With a maximum weight capacity of 2130 kg (4694 lbs) and a curb weight of 1570 kg (3462 lbs), the UAZ 31512-01 can handle a payload of about 560 kg (1235 lbs). This makes it suitable for transporting moderate loads, including passengers and gear, typical for off-road utility and rural transport. Its rugged chassis and suspension design support these loads well, though it’s not intended for heavy commercial freight but more toward off-road, agricultural, and utility applications.

The UAZ 31512-01’s dimensions—compact length (4025 mm), moderate width (1785 mm), and tall height (1990 mm)—contribute heavily to its off-road effectiveness. A shorter length enhances maneuverability on narrow trails, and the width balances stability while allowing passage on tight paths. Its height supports good ground clearance to clear obstacles and water crossings while providing an elevated driving position. These combined dimensions, along with its robust four-wheel-drive system, make it a highly capable vehicle for rugged off-road environments.

Advantages of the UAZ 31512-01 over earlier UAZ models include slightly refined bodywork and updated components that improved reliability and off-road performance during its 1985–1990 production run. It maintained a practical size for off-road use and urban maneuvering. However, disadvantages might include heavier weight compared to predecessors, affecting fuel efficiency and handling. The design remained fairly utilitarian, lacking modern comforts, but these trade-offs were typical for the rugged utility this vehicle was engineered to deliver, balancing performance with simplicity.