1990 Mercedes-Benz Wolf GD250

The Mercedes-Benz Gelandewagen is proof that some things never go out of style. Along with the Land Rover Defender, there has been a significant resurgence in popularity for older versions of the iconic Mercedes Gelandewagen. While the modern versions that are for sale are notable for both their opulent luxury and their capability, the earlier versions became admired for their simpler purpose and intent—rugged machines built to both endure harsh conditions, and escape them. The Wolf version of the G-wagen, in particular, originated as a commission from the Shah of Iran, who ordered 20,000 trucks that could handle the heat and desert terrain that the military needed. The design brief was sparse and direct—short overhangs, three differentials for maximum grip when needed.

Of course, in today’s market, the absolute minimum of creature comforts meant that companies have begun making more opulent versions of these older rigs, but this example is the kind of 'overland' build that has also become quite popular—enhancing ability with more capable suspensions, aggressive off-road tires, equipment like air snorkels that let the engine breathe when fording small rivers. As complicated as the modern car has become, even a modified off-roader like this Wolf becomes a revelation for its focus and purpose, and not being all things to all people.

And for true off road capability, the G-Wagen is one of the best starting points anyone could ask for. Tight, squared off dimensions, minimal overhang past the wheels, excellent breakover angles combined with front, center and rear differentials—your odds of a decent build with this building block are already high. And all Mercedes products from this era are known for their durability and longevity, making it even better for excursions far from pavement. But this G-Wagen takes it a step further, with power coming from a rebuilt Mercedes OM602 five-cylinder diesel engine, the powerplant known for piling on hundreds of thousands of miles without the need for any major service. 

As fun as this offroader is to look at and drive, its unstoppable nature is what makes it such a tantalizing ownership prospect.

This example is a 1990 Mercedes-Benz GD250 Wolf SUV, finished in yellow over a black interior, with 80,724 km on the odometer. Originally a military vehicle that served as transport in the Bundeswehr for the armed forces of the Republic of Germany, it underwent a complete transformation with a full cosmetic and mechanical restoration and upgrade. A bare-metal refinish resulted in the yellow shade seen here, along with a two-inch lift kit for the suspension, with larger off-road tires and a full rebuild of both the motor and transmission. 

Highlights of this Gelandewagen's mechanical and cosmetic upgrades include the following:

MECHANICAL & DRIVE:

• 2.5-liter OM602 five-cylinder diesel engine
• Rebuilt four-speed heavy-duty manual transmission
• Sachs heavy-duty clutch
• Dual-range transfer case
• Front and rear locking differentials

INTERIOR:

• New seats
• Paint matched dash and interior panels
• Rubber floor

BODY & EXTERIOR:

• 2” suspension lift
• 15” black Mercedes steel wheels
• New vinyl soft top 
• Aftermarket LED tail lights
• Original snorkel kit
• Grill guard
• Front indicator cages
• Extended wheel flares
• Rear jerry-can/plate holder
• Tire carrier with matching spare