Background
Fancy a Land Rover style vehicle but with additional luxury and a smooth, six cylinder diesel engine that will basically last forever? Look no further than the Mercedes G-Wagen – Gelandewagen, which is simply German for ‘all terrain vehicle’.
Its design reflects a timeless aesthetic that has remained largely unchanged since its inception, and its boxy silhouette exudes a rugged yet sophisticated charm, embodying a unique blend of utilitarianism and elegance.
But it’s not just a pretty face – the G-Wagen's legendary off-road prowess is unparalleled, owing to its durable separate body and chassis construction, three locking differentials, and advanced four-wheel-drive system. Get one stuck in the mud and you can expect suitable derision.
These features ensure exceptional performance in various terrains, from rocky trails to sandy deserts, establishing it as a formidable off-road vehicle that enthusiasts continue to cherish.
Furthermore, the G-Wagen's reputation for reliability and longevity adds to its allure as a classic vehicle. Engineered to withstand the harshest conditions, many examples from the 1990s era have accumulated high mileage without compromising performance or comfort, attesting to the vehicle's exceptional durability.
Additionally, the G-Wagen's association with luxury and prestige contributes to its desirability as a collector's item. Throughout its production history, the G-Wagen has been favoured by celebrities, dignitaries, and affluent individuals, elevating its status as a symbol of wealth and sophistication.
When Mercedes introduced the luxury GL in 2006 , it was intended that the G-Wagen would quietly slip away. But the old G defied the odds and if you have very deep pockets, you can still actually order a new one from Mercedes today.
A production milestone was reached on 4th December 2020 when the 400,000th model rolled down the assembly line. The big G now takes its place as one of the longest produced vehicles in the company’s history, surpassed only by the Unimog (we love them too).
The first models left the factory in Graz, Austria in 1979 and while we can’t recall a list of celebrity owners, we do note that the Vatican took delivery of a specially made G-Wagen a year or so later. Boasting a clear thermoplastic top, it allowed the Pope to be seen as he travelled to engagements. It now resides in the company’s museum in Stuttgart.
Improvements came swiftly with air conditioning, automatic transmission and an auxiliary fuel tank joining the options list in 1981. Hot on their heels came better seats, central door locking and a tachometer. More luxury, the buyers clamoured.
A facelift followed in 1990 and four years later the 100,000th vehicle was produced, while around the same time the model line was officially renamed the G-Class.
