Reviving a Sleeping Legend: Mercedes-Benz G-Class Emerges from a Decade of Hibernation
In a tale of rediscovery and rejuvenation, a Mercedes-Benz G-Class, having spent almost a decade in quiet slumber under a military tent, is now set to reclaim its former glory. This iconic off-roader, covered in a layer of debris and dirt, tells a story of neglect and resilience.
The narrative begins with the vehicle’s journey through time, as the owner recounts its history. Originally sold to his uncle by his father four decades ago, the G-Wagen found its way back into the family’s possession 20 years later. However, for the past ten years, it remained dormant, sheltered beneath a military tent that mirrored its distinctive olive green paint.
A three-door convertible, the G-Class surprisingly weathered the passage of time rather well. Protected partially from the elements, the body showed minimal rust, a testament to the robust build quality synonymous with the G-Wagen. Nevertheless, signs of wear were evident, and the first challenge was to extricate the vehicle from its decade-long repose and load it onto a trailer.
Despite its resilient exterior, the G-Class was non-operational, posing a hurdle for the restoration process. The absence of a spare wheel case at the rear, a protective cloth-draped spare wheel, and traces of abandoned wasp nests on the wheel required careful attention. Unlocking the frame revealed the fuel cap, and the team proceeded to address the intricate cleaning process.
The meticulous restoration involved mold removal, paint polishing to restore its original shine, and a comprehensive interior detailing. The power wash, coupled with brushing away years of accumulated dirt, unfolded as a satisfying transformation.
Moving to the engine compartment, a similar detailing procedure was applied, involving a meticulous foam wash and thorough brushing to reach every nook and cranny of the angular G-Wagen body. As the layers of grime were removed, challenges such as rust traces leaking from under the body cladding and glue remnants on the hood emerged, demanding careful resolution.
The specific variant under restoration, the 280 GE, was not known for its power but rather its resilience. Propelled by a 2,746 cc DOHC inline-six engine mated to a six-speed auto gearbox, the G-Wagen’s performance, with 156 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque, reflected the era it hailed from. Despite its underwhelming acceleration, the G-Class embodied a unique charm that resonated with enthusiasts.
Amidst the restoration process, the trunk revealed a treasure trove of manuals, each dedicated to a major component. A testament to an era where DIY solutions were valued, these manuals provided insights into the G-Class’s inner workings.
The restoration efforts extended to cleaning the trunk carpet, rejuvenating the beige leather seats, and addressing dust-laden seatbelts. The odometer, displaying 82,089 kilometers, and the speedometer, reminiscent of the Federal Standard Speed Limit, captured a snapshot of the G-Class’s bygone era.
While the G-Wagen now stands rejuvenated, boasting a refreshed fuel pump and a new lease on life, its future remains uncertain. The military tent that once shielded it from the elements may not suffice to prevent the inevitable corrosion.
In the company of a 1997 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL and a 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 55 AMG, the G-Class, now restored, serves as a testament to the enduring allure of automotive classics and the commitment required to breathe life back into a sleeping legend.
Photo: WD Detailing
