Moskvich 412
The rugged Soviet workhorse with a BMW-inspired aluminium heart.
- Power
- 75 bhp
- Top speed
- 87 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$10k
About the Moskvich 412
The Moskvich 412 was a significant leap forward for Soviet motoring, introducing the UZAM-412 engine—a sophisticated 1.5-litre overhead-cam unit with an aluminium block and hemispherical combustion chambers. While its body was largely shared with the older 408, the 412 offered substantially better performance and durability, earning a reputation for toughness in international rallies like the London-Sydney Marathon. In export markets like the UK, it was sold as the Moskvich 1500, prized for its low price and comprehensive tool kit, though it eventually lost ground to the more modern Lada. Today, it is a cult classic, valued for its mechanical simplicity and historical role as a robust family car of the Eastern Bloc.
Moskvich 412 specs
The Moskvich 412 produces 75 bhp (56 kW) and 108 Nm (80 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | Moskvich |
|---|---|
| Model | 412 |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1967–1976 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Soviet Union |
| Engine | 1.5-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,478 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 75 bhp (56 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 108 Nm (80 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,045 kg (2,304 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 72 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Moskvich 412 worth?
A typical Moskvich 412 is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $10,000 (about £2,200 – £7,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Moskvich 412 rarity in CarSpot
The Moskvich 412 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 24 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Moskvich 412 fun facts
- The UZAM-412 engine was so advanced for its time that it was often compared to the BMW M10, featuring a similar slanted design and overhead camshaft.
- Early 1967 models are rare 'transitional' cars, featuring the new 1.5L engine stuffed into the older 408 body with vertical tailfins and round headlights.
- A Moskvich 412 famously won its class in the British Saloon Car Championship in 1972 and 1973, driven by Tony Lanfranchi.