ASU-85 1956 and 1970

Thanks HeavyArty

Yes, externally, that was the only visible change.

HeavyArty

The ASU-85 1974 designation is an upgrade to the basic version w/a new MG and reworked ammo layout.

"In the early 1970s, some vehicles were fitted with a DShK-M 12.7mm heavy machine gun with 600 rounds. These vehicles had a reduced combat load of 39 main gun rounds and received the NATO designator ASU-85 M1974. The original designation was SU-85M or ASU-85M."

 

So in theory I could get the 1956 kit and add a DShk and make it a 74 version

The ASU-85 1974 designation is an upgrade to the basic version w/a new MG and reworked ammo layout.

"In the early 1970s, some vehicles were fitted with a DShK-M 12.7mm heavy machine gun with 600 rounds. These vehicles had a reduced combat load of 39 main gun rounds and received the NATO designator ASU-85 M1974. The original designation was SU-85M or ASU-85M."