Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen – 1979
Originally introduced as the G-Wagen (for Gelandewagen) in 1979, Mercedes-Benz’s 4x4 response to the Range Rover enjoyed a long career both off-road and in Chelsea, latterly being more widely known as the G-Class (G-Klasse in Germany).
Developed and built in co-operation with Steyr in Graz, Austria, the G-Wagen was initially developed as a strong off-road military vehicle, first shown in 1972! A long seven years later, the G was finally presented in its production form, available for civilian clients as well as military use, with a choice of two wheelbases, plus a wide selection of open and enclosed three- and five-door body styles.
Conceived as a basic Land Rover-style off-roader, but eventually launched as an expensive ‘lifestyle’ 4x4, the G-Wagen became more opulent, and costly the older it got, with the 1972/79 original model not being extensively modified and replaced until 2018!
Although it did become a legend in its own lifetime, the Mercedes G-Wagen never quite rivalled the style, kudos and prestige of the original 1970-1996 Range Rover.
As I’ve mentioned in the past, the original 1970 Range Rover might not have been the first SUV, but it was certainly the best, so Happy 50th again Range Rover; often copied, but never bettered!