Description
The Mercedes G-Wagen – or more accurately, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class - was initially developed as a military vehicle, supposedly as a result of a suggestion by the Shah of Iran. Work started in 1972 under a joint agreement between Daimler-Benz and Steyr-Daimler-Puch of Graz, Austria, with production of a civilian version beginning in 1979. The vehicle was manufactured by Magna Steyr (formerly Steyr-Daimler-Puch) and sold by Mercedes-Benz.
Very much in the style of a Land Rover-type cross-country vehicle, with utilitarian appearance; body-on-frame construction and four-wheel drive with fully locking differentials, the G-Class has achieved a great reputation for durability and reliability. It remains in production and is one of the longest-running series in M-B's history. Over the years it has received several revisions and been available in many body variants with numerous engine options. Whilst the more basic military use has continued, the civilian versions have generally become more powerful, luxurious and sophisticated.
The vehicle offered here is a second generation G-Wagen – designated W463 – built between 1990 and 2018. This new series marked a change in the focus of the vehicle, with Mercedes Benz aiming the car at a new clientele – looking for a luxury model and tapping into the marketplace largely created by the Range Rover. Accordingly, the previously utilitarian appearance was softened with slightly more flowing lines and better integrated fitments like the bumpers and running boards. The biggest changes however, were to the interior which moved considerably up market with better seating and leather and wood trim options.
This G-Wagen was first registered new, in Guernsey, in 1991. With relatively little use, it moved to Jersey in 2000 and into what turned out to be long term storage, from 2003. With a new owner in 2023, the car has been re-commissioned and fully serviced.
The 300GE model has a 6-cylinder petrol engine of just under 3 litres and was available between 1990 and 1994. Rated at 168 bhp, it has a claimed top speed of 102 mph and features full-time four-wheel-drive with electrically locking differentials and switchable ABS. With 4 new tyres recently fitted the Mercedes drives very well.
The body of the car is generally very good with very presentable 2-tone grey paintwork and just a couple of small corrosion marks in the rear left-hand panel. The underside is in solid condition with just a little surface corrosion apparent. To add to its general practicality, a towbar is fitted.
The interior of the Mercedes is in very good condition, as might be anticipated from a vehicle with such limited use. The vehicle’s substantial wheelbase allows for 5 individual seats with a further 2 fold down bench seats in the rear of the car. These are all in excellent, unmarked condition.
A practical, yet luxurious 4-wheel drive, 7-seater vehicle from a prestigious maker, this G-Wagen has covered less than 30, 000 miles and its good condition reflects the limited use is has seen during its life. With recent service works it is ready for regular use.
The car is currently Jersey registered and we can assist with shipping and importation processes if required. We can ship worldwide.
