The original versions of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender have long since given way to their redesigned successors, but that’s not the case for the trusty Lada Niva. In production in more or less the same form since as far back as 1977, the Lada Niva may be positively rudimentary by the increasingly plush standards of modern off-roaders, but less complexity means more reliability and repairability, and Nivas have conquered almost every terrain imaginable, even competing in the Paris-Dakar during the 1970s and 1980s. However, one place you would never expect to see these dependable 4X4s is Pebble Beach — the concours playground of the rich and famous — but that’s exactly where Gooding will be auctioning this 1984 Lada Niva 1600.

Naturally, we had to learn more about why this Niva made the cut for this exclusive auciton. "This is an opportunity to acquire a cultural artifact, a piece of 1980s Soviet history, at an accessible price. The definition of collector cars is ever-changing, and with appreciation and nostalgia, this too can be a "valid" collector car in its own right," a representative from Gooding explained. 

Finished in a rugged shade of beige, this Niva’s odometer currently shows 44,114 km, but with only five digits on display, that could have ticked past 100,000 once or twice already. Nevertheless, it appears to be in decent condition, especially inside the cabin where its black vinyl-trimmed seats seem to be free from rips or tears. 

Under the bonnet, you’ll find a 1.6-litre single overhead-cam naturally-aspirated four cylinder engine connected to a manual transmission and full-time four-wheel drive system. Peak power sits at 75 horsepower at 5,000rpm, and while this Niva is unlikely to win any rally stages, with three differentials it will get you to your destination wherever that may be. So, if you prefer your off-roaders simple, solid, and reliable, this Lada Niva would be an excellent choice for some frill-free fun off the beaten path.

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