U.S.-based restoration and tuning shop Motor Company (EMC) is selling a 1990 Mercedes-Benz G-Class army truck with a humble diesel engine under the hood and near-stock looks. You’d think the price would be affordable, but it’s actually $185,200. A new V8-powered G-Wagen is obtainable from $139,900.
The restomod specialist explains that the off-roader started its life as a non-street-legal military SUV and needed more than 2,000 work-hours to be restored to its full glory. The tuner stripped it down to the frame, sandblasted every surface, and sprayed the frame with a special powder-based protective coating. The body was then fully restored on a panel-by-panel basis and finished in a light cream hue with black accents. Brush guards and a snorkel pipe were added, and the minimalistic interior was re-trimmed with black and cream-tinted leather.
The entire drivetrain including the transmission, the gearbox and both axles, has been overhauled with lots of modern components. EMC replaced the fuel and brake lines, installed heavy-duty brake calipers and rotors, and improved the ride with new suspension shocks and springs.
The engine – a 2.5-liter, five-cylinder OM602 diesel – was allowed to stay stock except for new pistons and some other internals. A five-speed manual transmission carries the momentum.