Mercedes-Benz G Wagon

Originally, the Mercedes-Benz G Wagon was intended for military applications. The Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, had asked for an off-road vehicle to use in the military.

A former Mercedes-Benz engineer had a vision of an all-terrain civilian vehicle with all-wheel drive. He called it a Gelandewagen (German for off-road). In early 1970s, a manufacturing facility in Austria began making the first G-Wagons. In 1979, the G-Wagon was released to the public. It was sold in two-door and convertible models.

The G-Class was designed for civilian and military use. It had a unique look. It also came with signature four-wheel drive. The exterior of the vehicle was rugged, but it also had an attractive appearance. The interior of the G-Class had wood trim, leather seats, and safety measurements.

The first model was available in three different body styles: a short wheelbase, a long wheelbase, and a closed station wagon. The four-speed automatic transmission was also available in both of these models.

The G-Wagon was a popular vehicle in the Middle East. The Shah of Iran was a significant Mercedes shareholder. He ordered 20,000 G-Wagons for the Iranian armed forces. This was the first large order for the G-Wagon.

G-Wagons were tested for harsh conditions. They were put through the Canning Stock Route in inland north Western Australia in 2011. Five G-Wagons had shock absorber failure. The Pope also owned a G-Wagon. After his assassination attempt in 1980, the Popemobile was bulletproof.