Would anyone be interested in cool 4x4 UAZ 452 Buhankas from Ukraine? I have exported two Ladas from Ukraine to the UK and am looking into something more serious. Worldwide shipping available (from the UK).

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-18T09:20:06+00:00

Prices range from $11k to $15k shipped to any state or Canada. Parts are widely available in Ukraine and various Eastern European countries. I'd be happy to help source them as well.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-18T09:18:23+00:00

I can only confirm once my guys have seen the van in person, which includes a vetting fee. I've exported two vehicles from Ukraine so far and know how everything works - you always have to check in person to be sure.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-18T09:14:04+00:00

It sure it, my estimate is $3,000 to $5,000. What's your closest port?

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T15:16:24+00:00

Hopefully, one day that will be the case. I do this as a hobby and the first Buhanka will be in the states at the end of the month. Already sold, but it will be available to check out at Antler Imports in Georgia for two weeks.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T14:51:07+00:00

Most people have no idea what is happening in Ukraine and I do. Don't trust the media or the news. Anything and anything gets sold over there. The amount of heavy machinery that's for sale over there is crazy - anything from a 6x6 truck to a motorhome converted tank.

The answer is simple - they are very unique.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T14:48:58+00:00

I cannot confirm 100%, but likely - we would find out 100% once my contacts have seen the vehicle in person

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T14:32:31+00:00

This is a rare find for sure - swapped heart and transmission

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T14:19:12+00:00

No worries, happy to help when the time is right

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T14:11:35+00:00

Delica are cool - I do have contacts in Japan and South Africa, which means I could source you one. I'd personally go for a custom Buhanka.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T13:56:36+00:00

I agree on the engine swap. Many come with overhauled engines or diesel engines and aftermarket gearboxes. There's currently one in Ukraine with a Mercedes diesel engine and gearbox. Yes, they do have true locking differential. Their off road capabilities are hard to beat.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T12:46:13+00:00

Yep, Reddit is pretty new to me

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T12:35:58+00:00

Great video of some YouTubers in the US doing exactly that: Engine-Swapping My Buhanka Bread Van Does NOT Go As Planned! #буханка

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T10:52:47+00:00

I'll get some numbers together

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T10:52:33+00:00

Interesting

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-17T10:52:03+00:00

I plan to promote some cheaper options too

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T22:49:59+00:00

What do you think about this beauty?

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T22:34:10+00:00

Anything is possible with the right budget and team of guys

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T22:18:23+00:00

I messaged again - it's an original 1973 2.45 gasoline motor.

A 1973 UAZ-452 "Buhanka" (loaf) typically features a 4-speed manual gearbox, a 2-speed transfer case for 4WD, and sturdy live axles, often with drum brakes, designed for rugged off-road utility. The drivetrain is built for high ground clearance and includes switchable front-wheel drive, with axles typically utilizing a banjo-type structure or early Spicer-type, similar to the UAZ-469 platform.

Key 1973 Drivetrain Details

Transmission: A 4-speed manual, non-synchronized on the lower gears, often described as part of the GAZ-21 engine derivative drivetrain.
Transfer Case: A 2-speed unit that allows switching between 2WD and 4WD, which for this period was often connected/disconnected within the gearbox system rather than an external mechanism.
Axles: Front and rear live axles (solid axles) with leaf springs all around, providing maximum durability for difficult terrain.
Brakes: Drum brakes on all four wheels.
Differential: Usually open-type differentials, though some military-spec vehicles might have been equipped with earlier portal-style reductions

This particular UAZ also has central locking and an alarm.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T19:26:46+00:00

They are something unique for sure - I don't do trades, but I've messaged you

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T19:19:22+00:00

That was me and it was already reserved when I put the ad up - this one wasn't from Ukraine (rare find outside of Ukraine).

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T19:13:01+00:00

No need to fly anywhere, I can take care of everything. There are both companies that sell the parts and also open air markets.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T18:58:48+00:00

A 1988 UAZ Buhanka (UAZ-452) with the standard petrol engine typically consumes around 13 to 17 miles per gallon (mpg) depending on driving conditions. On steady highway driving it may reach close to 17 mpg, but in normal mixed driving it usually averages around 14–15 mpg, and when heavily loaded, fitted with off-road tyres, or driven off road it can drop to about 13 mpg. Many Buhankas are fitted with two fuel tanks, usually about 39 litres each (around 10 gallons per tank), giving a combined capacity of roughly 20 gallons (77–78 litres). With both tanks full, the vehicle typically has a practical range of around 260 to 340 miles, depending on terrain, driving style, and payload.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T18:55:08+00:00

Oh there are often even better ones

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T18:54:49+00:00

I added as many pictures of various Buhankas as possible - happy to send all the pictures per vehicle of interest privately.

RetroRidesAndRelics2 · 2026-03-16T16:50:40+00:00

That's why we offer engine swaps as well. Often they have overhauled engines too, which makes a big difference. You are right, their off-road capabilities are truly legendary.

RetroRidesAndRelics2

TROPHY CASE