Mercedes-Benz has launched a special edition of one of its most luxurious models that pays homage to its origins in the 1970s and 80s. The G-Class is generally known for being an alternative to supercars, putting massive alloy wheels and tinted windows onto a boxy SUV shape. However, the model was originally sold as a go-anywhere off-roader.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class ‘Stronger than the 1980s’ special edition allows new car buyers to relive those days, adding a number of styling elements to make the car look like the original. As a result, the glossy black or grey paintwork has been swapped in favour of Agave Green or Colorado Beige (two of the original colours offered on the G-Class), whilst black plastic has replaced chrome around the front fascia and door mirrors. Much like a genuine car from the 1980s, the G-Class also features orange indicators and lettering that uses the same font found on a wide range of Mercedes-Benz models from the era.
The limited edition also includes a wide range of accessories to give the model extra off-road practicality, including headlight meshes, a rear ladder, and a substantial set of mud flaps.
Inside, the unique G-Class also has several unique touches, including seats in a chequered ‘Dove Grey’ fabric and ‘Stronger than the 1980s’ inscribed on the dashboard.
However, the new Mercedes-Benz is not totally stuck in the 80s, still featuring a wide range of standard features, including a sliding electric sunroof, keyless entry, three-zone climate control, and a pair of 12.3-inch touchscreens.
Whilst Mercedes-Benz recently introduced a fully-electric version of the G-Class, the Stronger than the 1980s edition still features the brand’s tried and tested 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel engine.
This produces 382bhp, which is enough to accelerate the boxy car from 0-62mph in just 5.8 seconds and a top speed 130mph. It is also able to tow up to 3,500kg and has a low-range mode to give extra torque when travelling off-road.
That said, the G-Wagen is hardly the most economical diesel on the market, averaging just 31.4mpg, although a 100-litre fuel tank means stops at a petrol station are still rare.
Despite still being incredibly popular among luxury car buyers, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is currently one of the oldest models still in production, first launching in 1979.
Initially built by Magna Steyr in Austria, the G-Wagen was first promoted as an off-roader that could be used by the military. However, refinements, such as air conditioning and an automatic gearbox, meant that the Mercedes quickly found a following among high-end car drivers.
Drivers feeling a little nostalgic will soon be able to buy one of the 460 G-Class Stronger than the 1980s special editions that Mercedes-Benz plan to make, with each model priced at a hefty £152,815.
