2/5/20 40/100 Mercedes-Benz G-wagen

Today it is pretty common to find replicas of the Mercedes G-wagen across many different brands, but back in 2000 there was barely any out there not to mention the lack of interest of the model (for the U.S. the only way to own one was to go through a third party company in the southwest that will bypass the chicken tax on import trucks and make your own G-wagen).  It was refreshing to see the Matchbox G-wagen reappear for the 2000 year in red with the Mission graphics on the sides.  This rugged SUV was introduced in 1985 and was more for commercial use than personal use, hence the plastic roof with three round lights, a rear tow hitch (no spare tire), and a front brush guard, yet overall the look of the G-wagen remains with the familiar round headlights and three point star on the grill up front, the boxy profile, and rear with panel doors and taillights mounted just above the front bumper.  This casting has a working suspension, though oddly this SUV has a raked rear end for some reason, and the base shows off the four-wheel drivetrain with three locking differentials and an I-6 under the hood.  Interior shows off seating for six with the rear seats up against the sides and is very Spartan back in the day.  Since then Matchbox has released a new G500 wagon with better details and a more civilian look, yet the rugged function and look of the G-wagen still remains.

Specifications:

· Engine: 2.8L I-6 156 hp.

· Transmission: 4-speed manual est.

· 0-60 mph: 15.0 sec. est.

· Real vehicle price: #20,000 est. 1985

Rating:  4.6 out of 5 stars