The GAZ-51 was a Russian 4x4 2 ton truck produced between 1944 and 1945 by the Gorky Automobile Plant. The PAZ-653 was one of a number of modified vehicles utilising the GAZ-51 chassis. These vehicles were popular for their reliable and solid construction. In particular the PAZ-651, PAZ-653 and AS-3 Ambulance were all built by the Pavlov Bus Plant.