The first Geländewagen prototype was designed by Mercedes-Benz in the 1970s with the aim of creating a sturdy, durable and user-friendly four-wheel drive vehicle that could safely overcome any terrain. and comfortable with the goal of becoming a useful military vehicle.
The result is an icon that meets its original format but also provides a rugged and high-quality expedition vehicle for civilian use. Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen (also known as G-Class) is born!
The first G-Wagen models were tested in extreme conditions in difficult locations such as the Sahara Desert and the Arctic Circle, to ensure they could not only survive the environment but also perform at a high level. high performance, reliable and safe operation as well as protecting and transporting their goods in less favorable conditions.
To celebrate its origins and to honor its performance, New Jersey-based Expedition Motor Company recently launched the all-new Sahara Wolf, built on an original military vehicle. version 250GD ‘reborn’ in 1993.
It is priced at $180,450 (~$272,000) and is available immediately.
Alex Levin, founder of Expedition Motor Company, said: “For this Sahara Wolf we went back to the roots of the Geländewagen and in particular the extensive testing that those prototype vehicles experienced in the sand dunes of the Sahara desert”.
“In addition to the inherent reliability and off-road capabilities of the original prototype vehicles, EMC has also deployed a series of internally developed components to modernize ride quality and the overall driving experience. .”
Of particular importance to EMC and key to the restoration of these 1993 250GD Sahara Wolf 4WDs was the retention of the infallible 2.5-litre OM602 five-cylinder diesel engine.
The proven 711.117 5-speed manual transmission has been meticulously stripped, evaluated and rebuilt for added reliability.
For EMC, the end result is a clinically managed mechanical procedure that includes a 100-point recovery process, ensuring that each individual Sahara Wolf will deliver consistent and reliable performance.
Work includes improved anti-corrosion applications, tuned suspension upgrades and a carefully selected list of enhancements to ensure continued performance and condition of the vehicle for decades to come. .
Although offered as a convertible with a removable soft top, no time or money has been spared to ensure that these combat-ready vehicles can more than comfortably handle all types of weather. harsh weather but can also cope with the harshest terrain in a variety of extreme situations.
To support that, a number of specialist accessories supplied and fitted by EMC include a Warning Winch mounted inside a custom-built EMC actuator bar, a 3-inch LED box light and an EMC snorkel kit.
Designed to protect the vehicle, support self-healing, illuminate the road and off-road as well as protect and function the air intake, these accessories not only provide the desired improvements in capabilities but also enhance the look and presence of each. Sahara Wolf.
A quote from the original press release paints a complete picture of the target market by stating “this completely rebuilt 250GD feels right at home when traveling in a sunny coastal town or face inclement weather.”
Contrasting the Sahara Wolf’s sandy brown exterior, the EMC interior balances and offsets the color scheme with an elephant gray-inspired color scheme.
G-Wagen experts have further modernized this historic military vehicle with Harman Kardon’s Infinity sound system, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay, soundproofing and a full range of living amenities including air conditioning. air conditioning, heating and heated front and rear seats.
Established as one of the world’s leading rebuild specialists and retailers of the iconic Mercedes Benz 250GD, EMC has a long history of supplying these collector cars in pristine and functionally improved condition.
There is clearly a demand for these restored cars keeping manufacturers like EMC in business. What are your thoughts on their ultimate use? Are they simply for collectors to garage and never drive them or do you think some of these are actually put to the test?
Let us know in the comments below!
