The UAZ 31602 2.7, producing 132 horsepower, is a Russian-built off-road vehicle manufactured between 1999 and 2004. Part of the UAZ 3160 family, it represented a modernization of the long-running UAZ-469 lineage, a vehicle originally designed for military use. While not officially sold in the United States, the UAZ 31602 and its predecessors have a significant history in Russia and other Eastern European and Central Asian countries, serving as a utilitarian workhorse and a popular choice for rural transportation due to its robust construction and four-wheel-drive capabilities. The 31602 aimed to improve upon the basic, but durable, design of earlier UAZ models with increased comfort and refinement, though it retained the core off-road functionality that defined the brand.
UAZ 31602 2.7: A Legacy of Ruggedness
The UAZ 31602 2.7 occupies a unique niche. It wasn’t designed to compete with Western SUVs in terms of luxury or on-road performance. Instead, it was engineered for practicality, durability, and the ability to traverse challenging terrain. Its design reflects a focus on function over form, prioritizing reliability and ease of maintenance in often harsh operating conditions. The vehicle’s enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and its ability to perform tasks that more sophisticated vehicles might struggle with. It’s a testament to a design philosophy that prioritizes getting the job done, regardless of the environment.
Engine & Performance
The UAZ 31602 2.7 is powered by a 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 132 horsepower. This engine, while not particularly powerful by modern standards, provides adequate performance for its intended purpose. Torque output is rated at 223 Nm (164.48 lb.-ft.) at 4000 rpm, which is more crucial for off-road driving than peak horsepower. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a naturally aspirated configuration. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission and a robust four-wheel-drive system. The weight-to-power ratio of 14.9 kg/Hp (67.2 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 8.8 kg/Nm (113.5 Nm/tonne) indicate a vehicle geared towards utility rather than outright speed. The maximum speed is rated at 150 km/h (93.21 mph). The longitudinal engine placement contributes to the vehicle’s balance and drivetrain layout.
Design & Features
The UAZ 31602 2.7 is a five-door, seven-seat off-road vehicle. Its body-on-frame construction provides exceptional durability and allows for significant articulation when navigating rough terrain. The design is boxy and utilitarian, reflecting its origins as a military-inspired vehicle. While not known for its aerodynamic efficiency, the shape maximizes interior space and practicality. The vehicle features a relatively simple interior, focused on functionality rather than luxury. Key features include a spacious cabin, ample cargo capacity, and a robust four-wheel-drive system with high and low range gearing. Safety features, by modern standards, are minimal, reflecting the vehicle’s age and intended market. The suspension utilizes a trailing arm setup at the front and a leaf spring configuration at the rear, providing a comfortable ride on and off-road. Hydraulic steering assists with maneuverability, though it lacks the precision of more modern steering systems. The vehicle rides on 225/75 R16 tires mounted on 6J x 16 inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | UAZ |
| Model | 31602 |
| Generation | 31602 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (132 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.9 kg/Hp, 67.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 113.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 132 Hp |
| Power per litre | 48.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 223 Nm @ 4000 rpm (164.48 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2700 cm3 (164.76 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2565 kg (5654.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4240 mm (166.93 in.) |
| Width | 1828 mm (71.97 in.) |
| Height | 1935 mm (76.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16 |
The UAZ 31602 2.7, while not a sophisticated vehicle by modern standards, represents a significant chapter in Russian automotive history. Its enduring popularity in its home market is a testament to its ruggedness, reliability, and practicality. It remains a popular choice for those who need a capable and affordable off-road vehicle, and its simple design makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair, even in remote locations.
