Mercedes-Benz has created a vintage-inspired one-off G-Wagen to celebrate a big milestone for the iconic SUV. The bespoke creation commemorates the production of the 500,000th G-Class at its factory in Graz, Austria. The German automaker chose the 1986 280 GE model as an inspiration to build the retro-themed one-off. As a result, it is decked out in Agave Green exterior paint (one of the first colors available) and features a black front fascia along with grated headlamp guards. The clear turn signals have also been swapped for classic amber-colored ones. Other special touches include a roof rack which can be accessed by a rear-mounted ladder and a set of period-appropriate silver five-spoke wheels.
While Mercedes didn’t provide any interior images of the one-off, the German marque said the seat inserts feature fabric with a checkered pattern inspired by past models. Furthermore, the passenger-side grab handle has a “No. 500,000” badge in agave green. Mercedes has also not revealed the powertrain details of the special variant.
The Mercedes-AMG G63 currently sits at the top of the line-up, which is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 that can produce up to 577 hp and 627 ft-lbs. of torque. Mercedes is currently working on a refreshed G-Class, which might make its debut in 2024. Additionally, an all-electric version called the EQG is also expected to join the line-up next year.
G-Class’s journey from being a utility vehicle to a symbol of status and wealth
Originally developed for military use, the G-Wagen has been in production for the last 44 years. While the exterior design has not changed a lot over the years, the iconic model has completely transformed from a utilitarian automobile to an ultra-luxe SUV over the last four decades. Originally, the SUV was available with four engine options with power ranging from 71 horsepower to 148 hp. In complete contrast, the G-Class can be presently had with a boisterous V8 that produces tarmac-ripping torque.
While the model hasn’t lost its off-roading capability, the G-Class is one of the most luxurious SUVs on the market currently, thanks to which it has become a favorite amongst celebrities. In fact, the demand for it is so high that the German manufacturer had to temporarily stop accepting new orders last year. It has also announced that the model was completely sold out till 2025. As a result, people are willing to pay up to 200% of the sale price to buy a used G-Wagen these days.
