Unexpected parallels with older Soviet tech are noticeable in several models. The Dongfeng EQ6670PT bus, for instance, bears a strong resemblance to the former PAZ-3206 with all-wheel drive, and in many respects these machines read as nearly identical on first impression.
Key features line up in a familiar way: all-wheel drive, generous ground clearance, a front-mounted engine, a door system behind the front wheels on the passenger side, and a wheelbase of 3650 mm — only 50 mm longer than the classic model it echoes.
Yet clear distinctions emerge upon closer look. The total length differs by about 300 mm, favoring the PAZ-3206, and seating capacity diverges as well: the Soviet bus accommodates 28 people, while the Dongfeng tops out at 19. The EQ6670PT runs a 4.5-liter Cummins diesel delivering 140 horsepower, whereas the PAZ is equipped with a 4.7-liter ZMZ-5234 gasoline engine producing 130 hp. Dongfeng’s rear wheels are single-axle driven, and the tailgate is single-hinged with no hatch. It is also noted that air conditioning was not a feature in the PAZ’s configuration in some versions at the time.
Price comparisons trend similarly. The Dongfeng EQ6670PT typically lists around $44,000, roughly 3.2 million rubles, while the PAZ-32053/54 (the PAZ-3206 lineage’s successor) starts near 3 million rubles. These figures illustrate how both models occupied niche spaces in their markets, balancing utility with cost considerations for fleet buyers and individual owners alike.
Whether there is a direct historical lineage between these buses remains uncertain. What is evident is that both share other close analogs in the market — most notably the Japanese Toyota Coaster, which appears as a common thread linking several small to mid-size passenger carriers across regions and eras. This shared lineage underscores how similar design constraints and practical needs drive a familiar copybook across continents.
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Readers are invited to participate in the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix vote, a national campaign to determine the standout car novelties of the year. The process is straightforward: cast a vote for preferred models, and then wait for the results to see which vehicle wins public favor across the audience.
As a token of appreciation for taking part, a prize draw will select several participants from those who complete the survey by the deadline. A small number of prizes will be awarded, with eligibility extending to everyone who finishes the questionnaire before the final closing date. The timing highlights the chance to engage with readers across the season and to share in the enthusiasm for new automotive ideas.
COMPLETE THE 2023 DRIVING GRAND PRIX QUESTIONNAIRE
Note: This section reflects the event’s historical context and is presented for readers to understand the outlined engagement opportunity. The source material is attributed to All About Trucks and Trucks Planet in the original report and is cited here for reference in discussions about vehicle comparisons and fleet options.