GAZ-53
| GAZ-53 | |
|---|---|
GAZ-53 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | GAZ |
| Also called |
|
| Production | 1961–1993 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Truck |
| Body style | 2-door standard cab 4-door double cab (fire engines only) |
| Layout | Front engine layout |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 3,700 mm (145.7 in) |
| Length | 6,395 mm (251.8 in) |
| Width | 2,379 mm (93.7 in) |
| Height | 2,190–2,219 mm (86.2–87.4 in) |
| Curb weight | 2,989–3,260 kg (6,590–7,187 lb) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | GAZ-51 |
| Successor | GAZ-3307 |
The GAZ-53 is a 3.5 tonne 4x2 truck produced by GAZ between 1961 and 1993. Introduced first as GAZ-53F, it was joined by the virtually identical 2.5-ton GAZ-52 in 1962, which was produced until 1989.
The GAZ-52 and GAZ-53 trucks are distinguished by different lighting systems, wheel rims and tonnage (payload): the GAZ-52 was able to carry up to 2.5 tonnes of cargo, whereas the GAZ-53A could carry up to 4 tonnes. From 1961 to 1975 the new truck range was produced along with its predecessor, the GAZ-51.
Given the long production run of GAZ-52/53 and their variants, the series is a common sight in Eastern Europe. They should not be mistaken for the broadly similar 5-6 ton ZIL-130, which is also usually painted light blue with a white grille. The GAZ grille is fluted vertically, and the direction indicators are typically located above the headlamps, with the exception of the introductory GAZ-53F. The ZIL has a horizontally slated grille and its flashers are located below the headlamps.