GAZ M20 Pobeda
The GAZ M20 Pobeda was one of the most significant cars to emerge from the Soviet Union. Named 'Pobeda' (Victory) to celebrate the triumph over Nazi Germany, it was the first entirely new postwar Soviet car design. Chief designer Andrei Lipgart created a remarkably aerodynamic body for the era — the pontoon-style body with integrated fenders was inspired by American streamlining trends but executed with a distinctive Soviet character. Stalin personally approved the design, reportedly saying 'a small victory is still a victory.' The 2.1-liter four-cylinder engine was modest but adequate, and the car's independent front suspension gave it a reasonable ride. The Pobeda was produced in several variants including a convertible and a rare all-wheel-drive M72 version designed for rough Soviet roads. The car was also manufactured under license in Poland (as the FSO Warszawa) until 1973, far longer than the Soviet original. The Pobeda represented a source of genuine national pride — proof that the Soviet Union could build modern automobiles despite the devastation of war. Today, restored Pobedas are cherished by collectors worldwide as symbols of an optimistic postwar era.
Most survivors are in Russia, Eastern Europe, and Cuba. Rust is a major concern on all body panels. The engine is simple and robust. Parts are available through Soviet car specialist suppliers. The column-shift 3-speed gearbox is rugged but imprecise. Polish-built Warszawa variants are also available and generally better maintained.
Total Soviet production was approximately 236,000 units. Also manufactured in Poland as the FSO Warszawa (approximately 254,000 units through 1973). A military M72 4WD variant was produced. The convertible is the rarest variant. Stalin reportedly criticized the original design for being too similar to the Opel Kapitän.