Tbilisi Automuseum is truly a paradise for car lovers, yet it remains largely undiscovered by many tourists visiting Georgia. Conveniently located at 79 Auto Museum Street, this remarkable destination is just a quick 5-minute drive from the popular East Point Shopping Mall, making it an easy stop for anyone exploring the area.
This museum boasts one of the most impressive collections of vintage cars in the region, featuring a diverse range that includes everything from the charming and colorful Zaporozhets to the imposing Zil. Most of the vehicles and motorcycles on display were produced during the Soviet era and have fascinating histories tied to influential figures. Among the highlights is a 1978 Gaz-14 Chaika, once owned by Eduard Shevardnadze, Georgia’s second president (1995-2003), and a 1977 Gaz-13 Chaika that belonged to the Patriarch of All Georgia. Each automobile has its own story to tell, and if only they could speak, they would share captivating tales of their past!
For many visitors, a trip to Tbilisi Automuseum will evoke cherished memories, while for others, these elite vehicles serve as a nostalgic time machine, transporting them back to the days of Soviet Georgia. The experience doesn’t end with the tour, as the museum offers a unique opportunity for guests to rent one of the luxurious vintage cars and cruise through the streets of Tbilisi in style.
Opened on October 25, 2014, during the annual Tbilisoba city festival, Tbilisi Automuseum is a relatively new addition to the cultural landscape. It was founded and is still owned by Georgian businessman Giorgi Mamulashvili, who began his passion for vintage cars over 25 years ago with the purchase of a striking green Moskvich 403.
Initially showcasing just 25 cars, the collection has since expanded significantly. Each vehicle has been meticulously restored using factory parts to maintain its original appearance. Over his years of collecting and restoring, Mamulashvili has gained extensive knowledge about vintage cars and motorcycles, and he eagerly shares his insights with curious visitors.
Tbilisi Automuseum features two exhibition halls, housing up to fifty cars and ten motorcycles, creating a truly unique collection that feels as though someone has gathered all the iconic Soviet-era vehicles in one place for your enjoyment.
One of the first exhibits to catch your eye will likely be the Pobeda-phaeton, produced in 1947 in Bronnitsy (now part of Russia). Its production was swiftly halted due to its unsuitability for the harsh Russian climate, yet it remains the museum’s most popular exhibit, allowing visitors to sit inside and snap photos.
For those intrigued by the darker side of history, the museum displays a black GAZ-M1, a model famously used by the KGB in the 1930s. This particular vehicle was once at the service of Lavrentiy Beria, a notable figure in Soviet history.
Another standout is the 1928 Ford Model A, which holds a special place in the collection as it was the first Ford to feature a standardized set of driver controls, including a conventional clutch, brake pedals, throttle, and gearshift. Although not a Soviet car, it has an intriguing backstory; Giorgi Mamulashvili acquired it at an American auction, only to discover that it had appeared in the iconic 1967 film “Bonnie and Clyde.” Interestingly, the Ford Model A and Ford Model B served as prototypes for the GAZ A and GAZ-M1.
Other notable Soviet-era cars featured in the museum include the Zaporozhets ZAZ-966, Moskvitch 403, Lada 1200, and Lada 1500. In 2017, the collection was enhanced with two exceptionally rare vehicles: the GAZ-M1, also known as Emka, and a GAZ-4 pickup truck. Both of these cars are among only five remaining in the world, making them a must-see for any visitor!
While exploring the museum, don’t miss the motorcycle collection, which includes models such as the Ural-2 M-63, Dnepr K-750, and Dnepr MV-750, all featuring upgraded brakes, suspension, and electrical systems.
Visiting Tbilisi Automuseum can be a delightful family outing, as children will be captivated by the shiny, colorful cars. Take your time to explore this hidden treasure; it’s a unique experience that is well worth your visit.
Address: 7, Auto Museum Str., Isani-Samgori district, lane # 79a gr. From Lortkipanidze (former Cairo) str., Tbilisi
Phone: (+995 59) 954-56-28
Working hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m. till 06:00 p.m.
Closed: on Monday
