Description
Description and Condition
This 1992 Mercedes-Benz 300 GD W463 short-wheelbase is an exceptionally original UK right-hand-drive example, finished in factory Anthracite Grey Metallic, with just 65, 875 genuine miles from new.
Powered by the renowned 3. 0-litre naturally aspirated six-cylinder diesel engine, it features a five-speed manual gearbox, low-range transmission and front, rear and centre differential locks.
Condition and Refurbishment
The vehicle is in remarkable condition for its age, having benefited from extensive professional refurbishment and careful ownership.
Under previous ownership, it underwent a comprehensive body-off chassis refurbishment at a cost approaching €20, 000. This was professionally undertaken with the intention of preserving the vehicle for long-term ownership.
When I purchased the G-Wagon, it was already exceptionally well presented, both inside and out. The bodywork, paintwork and original interior were in outstanding condition and have required no cosmetic restoration during my ownership.
Since acquiring it, I have invested over £6, 000 entirely in mechanical maintenance and improvements, ensuring its mechanical condition matches its exceptional appearance.
Work undertaken includes comprehensive servicing, new brake calipers, a new power steering pump, engine damper and engine mounts, together with professionally rebuilt fuel injection pump and injectors. This is just some of the mechanical work carried out during my ownership.
All mechanical maintenance, repairs and improvements have been undertaken exclusively by independent Mercedes-Benz specialists, with all work completed to a very high standard.
Invoices are available documenting the mechanical work undertaken, together with the stamped Mercedes-Benz service book, full service history and supporting documentation relating to the previous chassis refurbishment.
Anything this vehicle has needed mechanically has been attended to, with all work completed to a very high standard. I have always taken the approach that if something needs doing, it should be done properly.
Bodywork and Interior
The bodywork is exceptionally straight, with beautiful Anthracite Grey Metallic paintwork and a deep shine. The original exterior trim, Mercedes alloy wheels and spare wheel cover retain the classic appearance of the early W463.
The interior is particularly impressive. The original grey cloth upholstery, burr walnut wood trim, dashboard, steering wheel, carpets and door cards are exceptionally well preserved, showing remarkably little wear for a vehicle of this age.
You really do need to see this G-Wagon in person to appreciate its condition. Photographs simply don't do it justice.
Mechanically, the vehicle drives extremely well, and the engine bay presents very nicely. The previous comprehensive chassis refurbishment is a significant benefit, particularly given the corrosion issues that can affect these vehicles.
Importantly, it has not been modified, modernised or converted to resemble a later G-Class. It retains its original character and specification.
History and Documentation
The vehicle comes with a stamped Mercedes-Benz service book, full service history, original handbooks and supporting documentation, including information relating to the extensive refurbishment.
This is, of course, a 34-year-old classic rather than a new vehicle, so minor age-related imperfections should naturally be expected. However, it has been carefully maintained, with substantial expenditure on mechanical improvements and preventative maintenance.
A remarkably original, exceptionally well-preserved and mechanically well-sorted early G-Wagon.
I've always admired the early Mercedes-Benz G-Wagons, particularly the short-wheelbase W463 models. They have a character, simplicity and quality of engineering that you simply don't find in modern vehicles.
What attracted me to this particular G-Wagon was its exceptional originality, remarkably low mileage and outstanding condition. Finding a UK right-hand-drive, short-wheelbase 300 GD is difficult enough, but finding one preserved to this standard is something quite special.
I've thoroughly enjoyed owning it. Since purchasing the vehicle, I've continually worked to improve its mechanical condition and the way it drives, taking real satisfaction in making an already exceptional G-Wagen even better. Anything that has needed attention has been dealt with properly and to a very high standard.
For me, the real appeal is its originality. The beautiful Anthracite Grey Metallic paintwork, remarkably preserved grey cloth interior, six-cylinder diesel engine and manual gearbox give it a character all of its own. It hasn't been modified or made to resemble a later G-Class, which is exactly how I believe these early examples should be kept.
It's one of several vehicles in my collection and, unfortunately, it simply doesn't get used as much as it deserves. I've enjoyed owning, maintaining and improving it, but I feel it's time for someone else to enjoy it.
You really do need to see this G-Wagon in person to believe its condition. Photographs simply don't do it justice, and I would encourage any serious enthusiast to come and inspect it for themselves.
I believe examples combining this level of originality, low mileage, condition and refurbishment history are becoming increasingly difficult to find.
It's been a pleasure to own, and I hope the next owner enjoys it as much as I have.
