Rare Cabrio open-top version, one of approximately 14 in the UK
Only two registered keepers from new
Comprehensive restoration with high-quality parts
Original service history file with manuals and receipts
Equipped with the OM617 Mercedes Diesel Engine
The Appeal
The original G-Wagon is a rather different vehicle to what we might see the G-Class as today. The boxy styling and big, imposing stance is still very much intact, of course, but back then this was a utility wagon first and foremost - yet to be laden with special features and top-notch tech.
The resulting vehicle had Mercedes-Benz bomb-proof build quality in a rugged, capable off-roader that was first established for taking on some of the most challenging terrain in the world. There were few 4x4s that could hold a candle to it, and even today it proves a bewitching formula for the modern driver.
This example is a bit of a unicorn. Only 14 of the cabrio setup are known to exist in the UK, and with a meticulous restoration under its belt, it's clear that the owner has been well aware of how special it is. Powered by the desirable OM617 Mercedes-Benz Diesel engine - prized for its sheer endurance - we're content this wagon ticks all of the boxes.
History and Paperwork
Registered in 1984
Only two registered keepers from new
Previously a working farm vehicle
In current ownership for 7 years
During this ownership, the vehicle has been extensively restored
MOT exempt as of this year
The vendor notes that the original service history shows a new odometer being fitted at 40k
As a result, the vendor assumes actual mileage is 86,963 miles
Complete with:
Original service history file from the first owner,
Original manuals, receipts, and service records
Multiple invoices for restoration work during current ownership
Vehicle is being sold purely due to family relocation
The Condition
Single Stage Mercedes Desert Sand Beige livery (Paint Code 464)
The vendor informs us that this year it had:
Body off restoration
Both body and chassis sanded back
All corrosion removed and re-painted
Multiple coats of new paint to protect the bodywork
Many of the body's original dings were left in rather than filling or filing
New windscreen
New wheels and tyres
New side and front indicators
Freshly fitted metal guards
New truck style wing mirrors
New front mud guards
Bodywork is in fine fettle, with working scars preserved
Paintwork could benefit from a machine polish to enhance its appearance
Canvas roof is original so will need replacing if to use in winter
Underside is solid and well preserved
Interior is all complete and in very good order
Still has its original Mercedes First Aid kit with all original contents
All original switches and gauges
The vendor highlights:
All floors are newly painted and carpeted
Seats have just been recovered with added heated elements
Rear jump seat for two people installed, alongside an internal spare wheel carrier
A new heater motor and resistor have been fitted while restoring
A new wiper motor has been installed
New gear knobs and gaiter
Fuel gauge reportedly works intermittently
The Mechanics
Powered by the rugged and capable 3.0-Litre OM617 5-cylinder diesel engine
Manual transmission with 5 gears
Engine bay in good overall order
Work done includes:
Clutch (full + bearing) (Sachs)
Brakes (refurbishment of callipers, new lines and pads & shoes)
Brake master and servo (upgraded, taken from a Mercedes SL 500) (Original is retained for new owner)
Shock absorbers (Sachs)
Suspension and steering bushes
Steering damper
Alternator
All belts
Gear shifter bushes
Oils / Fluid (Engine, Gearbox, Diffs, Power steering)
Filters (Oil, fuel, air)
Heater / Coolant stripped and flushed
Injectors cleaned
Glow plugs replaced
Rocker cover seal (had valve adjustment done too)
New Battery
The result is a car in good mechanical order
The vendor notes that the car starts first time, every time
The vendor says:
"This drives like a 1984 G Wagon should do, rugged, slow and a little noisy. It comes alive when on farm tracks and fields; it will literally go anywhere, and with its brand-new offroad tyres and brakes, it will also safely get you there and stop without issue."
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