1973 UAZ 469B Dimensions, Size & Specs

The UAZ 469B boasts a ground clearance of 220 mm (8.7 inches), which is a substantial ride height that enhances its off-road capability. This clearance allows the vehicle to navigate rough terrains, uneven surfaces, and obstacles like rocks or shallow water crossings with greater ease. It minimizes the risk of undercarriage damage and improves approach and departure angles, critical for off-roading. The elevated ride height also helps in maintaining traction and stability on challenging landscapes, making the UAZ 469B a durable and reliable off-road vehicle.

The curb weight of the UAZ 469B is 1540 kg (3397 lbs). This weight represents the vehicle ready for operation, including standard equipment and all necessary fluids but no passengers or cargo. The maximum permitted weight, which includes passengers and cargo, is rated at 2290 kg (5049 lbs). This payload capacity demonstrates the vehicle's robustness, capable of carrying substantial additional weight for off-road expeditions or utility purposes without compromising performance.

The UAZ 469B rides on 15-inch rims fitted with 215/90 R15 tires. These tires are relatively tall and have a wide profile, providing a larger contact patch for better grip on unpaved surfaces. The tire dimensions enhance traction on mud, gravel, and uneven terrain, supporting the vehicle's off-road nature. The combination of tire and rim size balances durability with ride comfort and stability, ensuring the off-road experience remains manageable while maintaining adequate robustness.

The UAZ 469B’s dimensions—4025 mm (158.5 inches) in length, 1785 mm (70.3 inches) in width, and 2015 mm (79.3 inches) in height—make it slightly taller than many standard vehicles due to its off-road design. Typical garage door heights are around 2 meters (78.7 inches), so while it fits in length and width comfortably, its height of over 2 meters might pose clearance challenges in some residential garages, especially with low ceilings or storage fixtures overhead. Before parking, it is recommended to measure your garage height to ensure sufficient clearance, particularly the tall roofline and potential roof racks.

The UAZ 469B is a refined evolution of the original UAZ 469 model. Both generations share similar off-road capabilities and rugged design philosophies. Dimensionally, the 469B maintained close external measurements to its predecessor, preserving the length around 4025 mm (158.5 inches) and width of about 1785 mm (70.3 inches). However, the 469B often featured improvements in modernized components and slight refinements for better usability and comfort without significantly altering the original footprint. Therefore, the 469B did not become notably longer, wider, or taller, retaining the compact off-road size characteristic of the original 469.

Compared to other classic off-road vehicles from the 1970s and 1980s, such as the Jeep CJ series or Land Rover Series III, the UAZ 469B holds its own in terms of dimensions. Its length at 4025 mm (158.5 inches) positions it as relatively compact, typically shorter than many Land Rovers but close in size to the Jeep CJ models. Its width of 1785 mm (70.3 inches) is similarly moderate, aiding maneuverability in tight terrain. The UAZ 469B’s notable height of 2015 mm (79.3 inches) is slightly taller than these competitors, largely due to its robust ground clearance and utilitarian body style. This size balance makes the 469B well-suited to the rugged and variable road conditions common in its target markets.

Beyond its dimensions, the UAZ 469B excels off-road due to its design features including permanent four-wheel drive, high ground clearance (220 mm / 8.7 inches), and durable construction. Its compact size aids traction and maneuverability on narrow, technical trails, while its chassis and suspension are built for rugged terrain. The relatively light curb weight of 1540 kg (3397 lbs) helps with agility without sacrificing robustness. Its simple mechanical layout allows for easier maintenance and repairs in remote areas — a key advantage for prolonged off-road use.

The UAZ 469B’s proportions mean that it has generous interior headroom thanks to its height of 2015 mm (79.3 inches), which is quite tall for a vehicle of its footprint. This allows occupants to sit upright comfortably without feeling cramped, an advantage for extended trips. However, the vehicle’s width of 1785 mm (70.3 inches) means the cabin space is functional but not overly spacious laterally. Cargo capacity behind the seats is modest, as the compact length limits rear storage area, but the seats can often be folded or removed to increase usable volume, allowing flexibility for equipment or supplies needed in off-road ventures.

Despite its production ending in 1985, the UAZ 469B remains a highly respected and in many regions still actively used off-road vehicle today. Its modest dimensions, reliability, simple mechanics, and excellent off-road performance have earned it a loyal following. Restoration and aftermarket parts availability help maintain its usability. Its compact size compared to modern SUVs means it still fits many rural and off-road environments better than larger vehicles. While modern alternatives might offer more comfort or technology, the UAZ 469B stands as a rugged classic, favored for practicality rather than luxury.