Good Night, Sweet G-Wagen
No, the G-Wagen isn’t gone for good… but let’s face it, we all know nothing lasts forever. Having been built with only one major technical change since 1979, the G-Wagen’s inevitable ride into the sunset is beginning with the end of production for the short-wheelbase, two-door version that we’ve never (officially) received here in the US. A complete shutdown of Graz, Austria production has been whispered about since (at least) 2005, when Mercedes nearly stopped shipping Gs to the US (according to Wikipedia, only an order from the US Marines [ Devil Dog G-Wagens FTW!] stopped Mercedes from cutting America off from the G-loving). But, according to Auto Motor und Sport, the convertible and four-door versions will continue to be built… for the moment. Think of this as an opportunity for a bit of proactive mourning….
More by Edward Niedermeyer
Comments
Join the conversation
The former gets a 6-cylinder diesel engine with BlueTEC emissions control, 211 hp and 540 Nm. In the G500, a 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine with 388 hp and 530 Nm takes its place. Alongside the permanent AWD with off-road ratio and 7G-Tronic seven-speed auto, the standard spec includes the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, ESP and three differential locks with 100% locking effect selectable at the push of a button.
I love these. Wastefully, flagrantly overpriced and better off for it. One navy-blue G55 passes me twice a day.
Hmmm...Maybe I should have bought that 1976 Ford Bronco as my first new car after all, so long ago!
Mercedes' Crown Vic.