1997 UAZ 31601 Dimensions, Size & Specs

The UAZ 3160 31601 boasts a ground clearance of approximately 210 mm (8.3 inches). This high clearance is critical for off-road performance, allowing the vehicle to pass over obstacles such as rocks, uneven terrain, and muddy paths without damaging the undercarriage. It enhances approach, breakover, and departure angles, which are essential for overcoming steep inclines and declines. This clearance elevates its capability in outdoor and rural environments, a key feature for an off-road vehicle like the UAZ 3160.

The UAZ 3160 generation features a wheelbase of approximately 2,300 mm (90.6 inches). The wheelbase refers to the distance between the front and rear axles. In this case, it strikes a balance between stability and maneuverability. A longer wheelbase generally improves ride comfort by providing a smoother ride over bumps, while a shorter wheelbase enhances the vehicle’s ability to navigate tight turns and rough terrain. The 2,300 mm wheelbase supports stable handling, important for both off-road challenges and regular road driving.

The UAZ 3160’s width is about 1,850 mm (72.8 inches), which is relatively wide compared to regular sedans but typical for off-road SUVs. Most standard garages have a width of around 2,400 mm to 2,700 mm (94.5 to 106 inches). This means the UAZ 3160 will comfortably fit into a standard garage with some clearance to spare on either side, though parking precision is required. Its width provides good stability but doesn’t compromise the ability to store the vehicle in most domestic garages or parking spaces.

The curb weight of the UAZ 3160 31601 is roughly 1,680 kg (3,704 lbs). This weight offers a solid build quality associated with off-road vehicles, contributing to its durability and ability to handle challenging terrain. Heavier weight improves traction on uneven surfaces and enhances stability. However, it can reduce fuel efficiency and may affect acceleration performance compared to lighter vehicles. The UAZ designers balanced the weight to maintain ruggedness without excessively compromising economy or handling.

The interior of the UAZ 3160 31601 is designed to maximize space for passengers, which is important in an off-road vehicle often used for adventure or utility. Given its height of approximately 1,940 mm (76.4 inches), headroom is generally ample, allowing most passengers to sit comfortably without feeling cramped. The seating layout and wheelbase support reasonable legroom for front and rear occupants, although the vehicle prioritizes ruggedness over luxury. Practicality and function in passenger space cater well to outdoor and utility needs.

Compared to the UAZ 469, which was produced mainly from the 1970s until the mid-1980s, the UAZ 3160 31601 offers a more modern take on dimensions and comfort. The UAZ 469 was slightly shorter and narrower, with rougher ride characteristics. The 3160 is longer, wider, and taller, providing enhanced interior space, improved driving ergonomics, and increased ground clearance. These size updates improved stability and on-road comfort while maintaining the 469’s legendary off-road toughness. The 3160 is generally seen as the evolution suited to users wanting more passenger comfort along with rugged capability.

When compared with similar off-road vehicles of its production period—such as the compact Lada Niva or Jeep Cherokee—the UAZ 3160 31601 is larger and taller than the Lada Niva (which measures roughly 3,690 mm in length) and has more rustic, utilitarian features. The Jeep Cherokee from the late 1990s is often bigger and more refined inside but also more expensive. The UAZ stands out for raw off-road capability, ground clearance, and simple mechanical design. In terms of dimensions, it falls between the smaller, more compact Niva and the larger Cherokee, offering a unique balance for rugged terrain and passenger space.

Yes, the UAZ 3160 31601 generally fits into a standard home garage. Typical standard single garages have widths ranging from about 2,400 mm to 2,700 mm (94.5 to 106 inches) and lengths around 5,400 mm to 6,000 mm (212.6 to 236.2 inches). Since the UAZ 3160’s length is approximately 4,455 mm (175.4 inches), and its width is about 1,850 mm (72.8 inches), it will fit comfortably inside these dimensions with enough clearance for door opening and movement around the vehicle inside the garage. Proper parking attention will of course be necessary given its height and width.

The UAZ 3160 31601's overall size — including its considerable length (4,455 mm or 175.4 inches), ample width (1,850 mm or 72.8 inches), and tall height (1,940 mm or 76.4 inches) — provides several practical benefits for off-road and utility use. The high ground clearance (210 mm or 8.3 inches) combined with a stable wheelbase (2,300 mm or 90.6 inches) enables the vehicle to traverse rough terrains such as rocks, deep ruts, and water crossings with confidence. Inside, the spacious cabin allows for passenger comfort on long journeys or robust cargo and equipment capacity for work scenarios. This combination of size and off-road focused dimensions makes it highly suited for rural, outdoor, and utility-focused users.