Mercedes G-wagen
- Thread starter Thai
- Start date
Baba Booey
New member
Thai said:
Yeah, but there are probably only a half-dozen or so armies that can pass the laugh test, and most of them probably DON'T use G-Wagens.
Baba Booey
New member
You know, like if a country's army would have trouble defeating our Salvation Army, they wouldn't pass the laugh test.
Thai
Elite Member
Baba Booey said:You know, like if a country's army would have trouble defeating our Salvation Army, they wouldn't pass the laugh test.
Gotcha. Never heard that one before.
Canadians and US Marines use G's.I am just happy that the U.S. Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance is using the 290 GDT diesel 4x4 Mercedes-Benz G-Class for their operations.
Interim Fast Attack Vehicle (IFAV):
These are deployed and used by Force Recon. Force Recon used to operate a fleet of Desert Patrol Vehicles (formerly known as Fast Attack Vehicles or FAVs for short), popularized by the Navy SEALs as the "black dune buggy". However, this vehicle lacked cargo capacity and firepower, so Force Recon moved to a militarized Mercedes-Benz G-Class (Gel
Thai
Elite Member
Here is a list of the more famous armies using G's:
Military Use
Austrian Army
The Austrian Army has been a long time user of various Puch G models.
German Armed Forces
The German Armed Forces uses the G-Class under the name "Wolf". Over 12.000 vehicles have been delivered in over 50 versions, ranging from ambulance vehicles to armored vehicles used by the German special forces.
Canadian Army
A total of 1,159 vehicles have been ordered by the Canadian Army beginning in late 2003.[6] An armored kit can be fitted (or removed) in 8 hours by 3 soldiers. The rugged construction of the G-Class and the armor kit have been credited with saving the lives of a number of Canadians during their use in Afghanistan.
Delivery of these vehicles to Reserve units has also begun. It is currently set to completely replace the ILTIS by 2007 in LFCA. For the most exposed missions 75 RG-31 Nyala built by BAE Land Systems OMC, South Africa, will be used. [7]
United States Marine Corps
The U.S. Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance use the 290 GDT diesel 4x4 Mercedes-Benz G-Class for their operations.
Dutch Army
The Dutch Army uses various versions of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
French Army
The French Army have the Peugeot P4 which is a derivative from the G-Class equipped with Peugeot engine and equipment.
The Norwegian Armed Forces
The Norwegian Defence Force bought 240 GD to replace Volvo and Land Rover jeeps in the mid-1980s, and 300 GD to use as ambulances. During the early 90's 290 GD's where bought, and in the first half of the 00's a small number of armoured 270CDI's were put into service.
Danish Army
The Danish Army bought the 240GD/24 to supersede the M151A1, the Volkswagen 181 ("Jagdwagen") and the Land Rover 88. First deliveries were in 1985 and more than 1.300 have been put in service. Currently the Danes are taking delivery of up to 1.000 270CDIs. A number of 290 GDs and 300 GDs have also been used.
Swiss Army
The Swiss Army uses the 230 with soft top as the primary general purpose carrier, and a hardtop version as mobile radio access point. It is in service since 1985 and gradually replaced Willys Jeeps, Haflinger light transports and Pinzgauer medium transports in the liaison and transport role. All versions in Swiss Army use are unarmed.
Military Use
Austrian Army
The Austrian Army has been a long time user of various Puch G models.
German Armed Forces
The German Armed Forces uses the G-Class under the name "Wolf". Over 12.000 vehicles have been delivered in over 50 versions, ranging from ambulance vehicles to armored vehicles used by the German special forces.
Canadian Army
A total of 1,159 vehicles have been ordered by the Canadian Army beginning in late 2003.[6] An armored kit can be fitted (or removed) in 8 hours by 3 soldiers. The rugged construction of the G-Class and the armor kit have been credited with saving the lives of a number of Canadians during their use in Afghanistan.
Delivery of these vehicles to Reserve units has also begun. It is currently set to completely replace the ILTIS by 2007 in LFCA. For the most exposed missions 75 RG-31 Nyala built by BAE Land Systems OMC, South Africa, will be used. [7]
United States Marine Corps
The U.S. Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance use the 290 GDT diesel 4x4 Mercedes-Benz G-Class for their operations.
Dutch Army
The Dutch Army uses various versions of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
French Army
The French Army have the Peugeot P4 which is a derivative from the G-Class equipped with Peugeot engine and equipment.
The Norwegian Armed Forces
The Norwegian Defence Force bought 240 GD to replace Volvo and Land Rover jeeps in the mid-1980s, and 300 GD to use as ambulances. During the early 90's 290 GD's where bought, and in the first half of the 00's a small number of armoured 270CDI's were put into service.
Danish Army
The Danish Army bought the 240GD/24 to supersede the M151A1, the Volkswagen 181 ("Jagdwagen") and the Land Rover 88. First deliveries were in 1985 and more than 1.300 have been put in service. Currently the Danes are taking delivery of up to 1.000 270CDIs. A number of 290 GDs and 300 GDs have also been used.
Swiss Army
The Swiss Army uses the 230 with soft top as the primary general purpose carrier, and a hardtop version as mobile radio access point. It is in service since 1985 and gradually replaced Willys Jeeps, Haflinger light transports and Pinzgauer medium transports in the liaison and transport role. All versions in Swiss Army use are unarmed.
Thai
Elite Member
Another Fact: Mercedes is guaranteeing production for NATO up to 2025.
Link to above info: http://journeytoforever.org/landrover2.html and http://www.4x4poland.com/g-wagen.htm
Link to above info: http://journeytoforever.org/landrover2.html and http://www.4x4poland.com/g-wagen.htm
Thai
Elite Member
Stewart & Stevenson Announces Sales Agreement with DaimlerChrysler
(Source: Source: Stewart & Stevenson Services, Inc.; issued Dec. 11, 2003)
HOUSTON --- Stewart & Stevenson Tactical Vehicle Systems, LP (TVS), a manufacturer of medium tactical vehicles for the U.S. Army, announces that it has entered into an agreement with DaimlerChrysler, which gives TVS the exclusive right to market the Mercedes- Benz Military Gelandewagen (G-Wagen) series of vehicles to United States Government authorities, including all federal, state, and local government agencies.
The G-Wagen military series includes the Open Wagon, Van, Station Wagon, Light 4x4 Tactical Wheeled Vehicle, and a Chassis with Cab. Since 1979 more than 60,000 of these vehicles have been sold to military customers worldwide. The G-Wagen has been continuously upgraded with the latest in automotive off- road and on-road technology.
The G-Wagen provides superb mobility, reliability, and economy, both off- road and on-road. It optimally fulfills its intended mission as a vehicle for transporting personnel or loads at a maximum two metric tons, and for towing trailers or artillery. Designed for air landings, the vehicle can be transported easily as an external load below a helicopter or as an internal load for aircraft, including the U.S. Marine Corps V-22 Osprey. It can also be air-dropped by parachute.
The G-Wagen is offered in several armored versions, with protection ranging from small arms to mine blast protection. It has performed successfully for German special forces in Afghanistan and U.S. Marine Corps Force Recon Units in the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts. Powered by a modern turbocharged common rail diesel engine, the G-Wagen military series meets the latest requirements of modern armed forces with respect to fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions.
The G-Wagen series complements the existing FMTV product line made by TVS, which includes 15 active variants and weight capacities ranging between 2.5 and 11 tons. Planned FMTV models under development will extend the product range to 15 metric tons in an 8 X 8 configuration.
(Source: Source: Stewart & Stevenson Services, Inc.; issued Dec. 11, 2003)
HOUSTON --- Stewart & Stevenson Tactical Vehicle Systems, LP (TVS), a manufacturer of medium tactical vehicles for the U.S. Army, announces that it has entered into an agreement with DaimlerChrysler, which gives TVS the exclusive right to market the Mercedes- Benz Military Gelandewagen (G-Wagen) series of vehicles to United States Government authorities, including all federal, state, and local government agencies.
The G-Wagen military series includes the Open Wagon, Van, Station Wagon, Light 4x4 Tactical Wheeled Vehicle, and a Chassis with Cab. Since 1979 more than 60,000 of these vehicles have been sold to military customers worldwide. The G-Wagen has been continuously upgraded with the latest in automotive off- road and on-road technology.
The G-Wagen provides superb mobility, reliability, and economy, both off- road and on-road. It optimally fulfills its intended mission as a vehicle for transporting personnel or loads at a maximum two metric tons, and for towing trailers or artillery. Designed for air landings, the vehicle can be transported easily as an external load below a helicopter or as an internal load for aircraft, including the U.S. Marine Corps V-22 Osprey. It can also be air-dropped by parachute.
The G-Wagen is offered in several armored versions, with protection ranging from small arms to mine blast protection. It has performed successfully for German special forces in Afghanistan and U.S. Marine Corps Force Recon Units in the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts. Powered by a modern turbocharged common rail diesel engine, the G-Wagen military series meets the latest requirements of modern armed forces with respect to fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions.
The G-Wagen series complements the existing FMTV product line made by TVS, which includes 15 active variants and weight capacities ranging between 2.5 and 11 tons. Planned FMTV models under development will extend the product range to 15 metric tons in an 8 X 8 configuration.
Thai
Elite Member
OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Facelift for Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Latest generation of the classic cross-country vehicle now with an even classier specification
Stuttgart, Feb 15, 2007
Mercedes-Benz has refined its G-Class yet again. The interior has been injected with fresh appeal courtesy of a new, high-grade instrument cluster, an attractively styled steering wheel which is also new, as well as a modified centre console with redesigned switches plus a new-look control unit for the air conditioning. Outside, the latest generation of the G-Class can be identified by the design of its tail light units with their sophisticated LED look. These facelift measures see Mercedes-Benz hold true to its philosophy of making sure that this classic vehicle - which has been in production for over quarter of a century now - is equipped with a comfortable, up-to-date interior on a par with the best saloons, along with state-of-the-art technology. By so doing, it preserves the exclusive status of the G-Class as a full-blooded cross-country vehicle blended with the very finest lifestyle qualities.
The first Mercedes-Benz G-Class unveiled in 1979 was designed predominantly with tough off-road terrain in mind. Over the many years of its production, Mercedes engineers have adapted the G-Class to changing customer requirements. It boasted outstanding off-road capabilities right from the outset, but its all-terrain prowess has been continuously improved on by the addition of the latest electronics. Its exceptional performance off the beaten track, excellent towing abilities and balanced handling characteristics combined with its saloon-like ambience have resulted in the G-Class enjoying an extraordinarily long production career, which now extends to 28 years.
With its most recent facelift, Mercedes-Benz has added further touches of class to its cross-country classic. This is particularly true inside the G-Class where a new instrument cluster gives the interior a sophisticated look. Four circular analogue dials with chrome-ring surrounds form the nerve centre for driver information. Also sporting a new design is the elegant four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, whose illuminated buttons drivers can simply press with their thumbs to call up various data or control certain functions without being distracted from the road. The G 320 CDI comes with a leather-trimmed steering wheel as standard, whilst the luxurious wood/leather version awaits G 500 and G 55 AMG drivers.
Common to all three G-Class models is the modified centre console with its new controls and switches for the air conditioning and convenience functions. Not only does the new centre console give the cockpit added visual appeal, it is designed to make operating the controls more foolproof. The standard specification for the G 500 and G 55 AMG models includes the COMAND APS control and display unit featuring DVD navigation system, built-in radio, CD player and telephone keypad. A compass function has also been integrated to allow drivers to easily get their bearings even when they have left the signposted routes far behind them. The compass can be set to show the current heading in either the new instrument cluster's display or on the COMAND screen.
The COMAND APS system can also be specified as an option for the G 320 CDI. This model is fitted as standard with the Audio 20 radio featuring CD player and telephone keypad instead of the previous Audio 10 unit. The entry-level model now also comes with heated front seats at no extra cost. The new 12V power socket in the front-passenger footwell of all models in the G-Class range allows for straightforward connection of auxiliary electrical appliances.
From outside, the newest generation of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class can be recognised from its tail lights, which have been remodelled by the designers to give them a fresh, new, LED-style look.
New attractive optional extras available
To coincide with the facelift, Mercedes-Benz has added some new enticing items to its list of optional extras for the G-Class. These include the following highlights:
- a reversing camera which shows drivers the scene behind the vehicle on the new COMAND unit's 6.5-inch screen;
- a tyre pressure monitoring system whose information appears in the instrument cluster display;
- a sports exhaust system for the long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon model which is basically identical to the exhaust system fitted in the G 55 AMG;
- the "ARTICO" interior package with robust man-made leather appointments, plus
- the new "Cognac" leather upholstery which extends the previous choice of leather appointments in either black or grey by adding a third, brown tone (no-cost option for G 500 model)
In light of these facelift measures, the claim that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is now more comfortable and innovative than ever has never rung so true. For not only does the G-Class excel by virtue of a luxurious interior ambience, its technology is absolutely state of the art too. The permanent all-wheel drive is complemented by the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS which boosts vehicle grip when pulling away and accelerating on slippery surfaces. What's more, the G Class comes equipped with three engageable differential locks as well as a low-range ratio for tackling tough terrain.
The current G-Class model line-up comprises three engines and three different body variants. The engine power spectrum ranges from the 165 kW/224 hp of the G 320 CDI to the 368 kW/500 hp developed by the G 55 AMG.
The new-look G-Class is available to order now, with deliveries starting in mid April.
Facelift for Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Latest generation of the classic cross-country vehicle now with an even classier specification
Stuttgart, Feb 15, 2007
Mercedes-Benz has refined its G-Class yet again. The interior has been injected with fresh appeal courtesy of a new, high-grade instrument cluster, an attractively styled steering wheel which is also new, as well as a modified centre console with redesigned switches plus a new-look control unit for the air conditioning. Outside, the latest generation of the G-Class can be identified by the design of its tail light units with their sophisticated LED look. These facelift measures see Mercedes-Benz hold true to its philosophy of making sure that this classic vehicle - which has been in production for over quarter of a century now - is equipped with a comfortable, up-to-date interior on a par with the best saloons, along with state-of-the-art technology. By so doing, it preserves the exclusive status of the G-Class as a full-blooded cross-country vehicle blended with the very finest lifestyle qualities.
The first Mercedes-Benz G-Class unveiled in 1979 was designed predominantly with tough off-road terrain in mind. Over the many years of its production, Mercedes engineers have adapted the G-Class to changing customer requirements. It boasted outstanding off-road capabilities right from the outset, but its all-terrain prowess has been continuously improved on by the addition of the latest electronics. Its exceptional performance off the beaten track, excellent towing abilities and balanced handling characteristics combined with its saloon-like ambience have resulted in the G-Class enjoying an extraordinarily long production career, which now extends to 28 years.
With its most recent facelift, Mercedes-Benz has added further touches of class to its cross-country classic. This is particularly true inside the G-Class where a new instrument cluster gives the interior a sophisticated look. Four circular analogue dials with chrome-ring surrounds form the nerve centre for driver information. Also sporting a new design is the elegant four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, whose illuminated buttons drivers can simply press with their thumbs to call up various data or control certain functions without being distracted from the road. The G 320 CDI comes with a leather-trimmed steering wheel as standard, whilst the luxurious wood/leather version awaits G 500 and G 55 AMG drivers.
Common to all three G-Class models is the modified centre console with its new controls and switches for the air conditioning and convenience functions. Not only does the new centre console give the cockpit added visual appeal, it is designed to make operating the controls more foolproof. The standard specification for the G 500 and G 55 AMG models includes the COMAND APS control and display unit featuring DVD navigation system, built-in radio, CD player and telephone keypad. A compass function has also been integrated to allow drivers to easily get their bearings even when they have left the signposted routes far behind them. The compass can be set to show the current heading in either the new instrument cluster's display or on the COMAND screen.
The COMAND APS system can also be specified as an option for the G 320 CDI. This model is fitted as standard with the Audio 20 radio featuring CD player and telephone keypad instead of the previous Audio 10 unit. The entry-level model now also comes with heated front seats at no extra cost. The new 12V power socket in the front-passenger footwell of all models in the G-Class range allows for straightforward connection of auxiliary electrical appliances.
From outside, the newest generation of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class can be recognised from its tail lights, which have been remodelled by the designers to give them a fresh, new, LED-style look.
New attractive optional extras available
To coincide with the facelift, Mercedes-Benz has added some new enticing items to its list of optional extras for the G-Class. These include the following highlights:
- a reversing camera which shows drivers the scene behind the vehicle on the new COMAND unit's 6.5-inch screen;
- a tyre pressure monitoring system whose information appears in the instrument cluster display;
- a sports exhaust system for the long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon model which is basically identical to the exhaust system fitted in the G 55 AMG;
- the "ARTICO" interior package with robust man-made leather appointments, plus
- the new "Cognac" leather upholstery which extends the previous choice of leather appointments in either black or grey by adding a third, brown tone (no-cost option for G 500 model)
In light of these facelift measures, the claim that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is now more comfortable and innovative than ever has never rung so true. For not only does the G-Class excel by virtue of a luxurious interior ambience, its technology is absolutely state of the art too. The permanent all-wheel drive is complemented by the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS which boosts vehicle grip when pulling away and accelerating on slippery surfaces. What's more, the G Class comes equipped with three engageable differential locks as well as a low-range ratio for tackling tough terrain.
The current G-Class model line-up comprises three engines and three different body variants. The engine power spectrum ranges from the 165 kW/224 hp of the G 320 CDI to the 368 kW/500 hp developed by the G 55 AMG.
The new-look G-Class is available to order now, with deliveries starting in mid April.
Thai
Elite Member
KBB Review of 2007 G-wagen
KBB Editors' Overview
While not as racy as the new GL-Class, or in the running to win any awards for aerodynamic efficiency, there is no denying the ability of the G-Class Benz to make a lasting impression. Big, boxy and about as modern as a dial-up phone, the G500's military roots serve it well, especially when it comes to off-road ability. Aftermarket manufacturers have a wide assortment of chrome accents and big wheels, allowing the discerning G500 driver to personalize his or her vehicle in ways the original designers could never have imagined. But be warned: Though priced similarly to a Land Rover Range Rover, the G500 does not return the same refined ride or quiet cabin.
What's New for 2007
The 2007 G500 receives a seven-speed automatic transmission, while the G55 AMG maintains its five-speed unit. New standard features include a heated windshield, a new center console design and bi-xenon headlamps.
Driving Impressions
Power for the G500 comes from Mercedes-Benz's dynamo of a V8, the 292-horsepower 5.0-liter engine. A strong contender in any field, the 5.0-liter seems to possess unending reserves of low-end torque that make the G500 move as quickly and responsively as an M-Class. The G-Class needs this much power because it is almost literally built like a tank (or at least an armored personnel carrier), and weighs just over 5,500 pounds. This immense bulk is one of the contributing factors to keeping the G500 planted firmly on the ground, both on and off-road. The G500 features an advanced four-wheel-drive system that is permanently engaged. Once off road, you can place the two-speed transfer case into low and take off up the steepest grades without much concern. Three buttons on the center dash allow you further control by permitting the front, center and rear differentials to be locked, either all at once or in random order.
Interior
The G500's upright design translates to an uncommonly roomy interior, with more than ample head, leg and hip room for passengers and generous storage space for their cargo. Mercedes has added a 21st-century touch to the dash and door panels by covering them in soft leather and real wood; likewise, the angular dash is somewhat softened by the installation of the COMAND system's LCD screen and the rounded speedometer and instrument gauges. You'll find the G500's seats to be very tall and upright and somewhat firm, in traditional Mercedes fashion. The rear seats are split in a 60/40 configuration and can be folded and flipped to provide more cargo room.
Exterior
Originally designed to serve as a military vehicle, the G-Class soon found its way to U.S. shores to serve civilian duty as the Mercedes-Benz off-road flagship. Though the design may be old (over 25 years, in fact), the vehicle's remarkable robustness, with thicker-than-average sheet metal and hand-built construction, has allowed it to sail through every government crash test with flying colors.
Under the Hood
The base 5.0-liter V8 has plenty of torque, a figure more important than horsepower, given the G500's ponderous bulk. Acceleration is strong but falls off somewhat at highway speeds. The AMG version, with its supercharged 5.5-liter engine, is more likely to get you in trouble with the law, and can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 5.5-seconds.
5.0-liter V8
292 horsepower @ 5500 rpm
336 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 12/15 mpg
5.5-liter V8 Supercharged
493 horsepower @ 6100 rpm
516 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 11/13 mpg
Pricing Notes
The G500 starts around $84,000 and, when fully-loaded, can top out around $108,000, A look at the KBB New Car Blue Book Value shows little wiggle room at the negotiation table, with most models selling at or slightly above MSRP. Over a five-year period, the G500 and G55 hold a slightly better-than-average projected residual value for its segment. At 24 months, both are expected to retain about 60 percent of their value; after 48 months the number falls to about 50 percent. That's better than the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade but similar to a Lexus LX 470 and Land Rover Range Rover.
KBB Editors' Overview
While not as racy as the new GL-Class, or in the running to win any awards for aerodynamic efficiency, there is no denying the ability of the G-Class Benz to make a lasting impression. Big, boxy and about as modern as a dial-up phone, the G500's military roots serve it well, especially when it comes to off-road ability. Aftermarket manufacturers have a wide assortment of chrome accents and big wheels, allowing the discerning G500 driver to personalize his or her vehicle in ways the original designers could never have imagined. But be warned: Though priced similarly to a Land Rover Range Rover, the G500 does not return the same refined ride or quiet cabin.
What's New for 2007
The 2007 G500 receives a seven-speed automatic transmission, while the G55 AMG maintains its five-speed unit. New standard features include a heated windshield, a new center console design and bi-xenon headlamps.
Driving Impressions
Power for the G500 comes from Mercedes-Benz's dynamo of a V8, the 292-horsepower 5.0-liter engine. A strong contender in any field, the 5.0-liter seems to possess unending reserves of low-end torque that make the G500 move as quickly and responsively as an M-Class. The G-Class needs this much power because it is almost literally built like a tank (or at least an armored personnel carrier), and weighs just over 5,500 pounds. This immense bulk is one of the contributing factors to keeping the G500 planted firmly on the ground, both on and off-road. The G500 features an advanced four-wheel-drive system that is permanently engaged. Once off road, you can place the two-speed transfer case into low and take off up the steepest grades without much concern. Three buttons on the center dash allow you further control by permitting the front, center and rear differentials to be locked, either all at once or in random order.
Interior
The G500's upright design translates to an uncommonly roomy interior, with more than ample head, leg and hip room for passengers and generous storage space for their cargo. Mercedes has added a 21st-century touch to the dash and door panels by covering them in soft leather and real wood; likewise, the angular dash is somewhat softened by the installation of the COMAND system's LCD screen and the rounded speedometer and instrument gauges. You'll find the G500's seats to be very tall and upright and somewhat firm, in traditional Mercedes fashion. The rear seats are split in a 60/40 configuration and can be folded and flipped to provide more cargo room.
Exterior
Originally designed to serve as a military vehicle, the G-Class soon found its way to U.S. shores to serve civilian duty as the Mercedes-Benz off-road flagship. Though the design may be old (over 25 years, in fact), the vehicle's remarkable robustness, with thicker-than-average sheet metal and hand-built construction, has allowed it to sail through every government crash test with flying colors.
Under the Hood
The base 5.0-liter V8 has plenty of torque, a figure more important than horsepower, given the G500's ponderous bulk. Acceleration is strong but falls off somewhat at highway speeds. The AMG version, with its supercharged 5.5-liter engine, is more likely to get you in trouble with the law, and can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 5.5-seconds.
5.0-liter V8
292 horsepower @ 5500 rpm
336 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 12/15 mpg
5.5-liter V8 Supercharged
493 horsepower @ 6100 rpm
516 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 11/13 mpg
Pricing Notes
The G500 starts around $84,000 and, when fully-loaded, can top out around $108,000, A look at the KBB New Car Blue Book Value shows little wiggle room at the negotiation table, with most models selling at or slightly above MSRP. Over a five-year period, the G500 and G55 hold a slightly better-than-average projected residual value for its segment. At 24 months, both are expected to retain about 60 percent of their value; after 48 months the number falls to about 50 percent. That's better than the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade but similar to a Lexus LX 470 and Land Rover Range Rover.
Thai
Elite Member
G500/55 5-speed auto tranny = W5A580
1st gear 3.588
2nd gear 2.186
3rd gear 1.405
4th gear 1.00
5th gear 0.831
reverse 3.16
3-channel torque converter
The W5A580 debuted in 1995 Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles and is known to be one of the smoothest, most fuel-efficient and cost-effective transmissions in the industry. Its unique three-channel torque converter helps provide an exceptionally smooth ride and shifting, while reducing fuel consumption.
A broad ratio spread from First to the Fifth was selected to minimize fuel consumption and reduce powertrain noise during cruising. An aggressive First-gear ratio provides excellent launch performance, and evenly spaced gear ratios provide smooth acceleration through the gears.
World-class efficiency is achieved through physical and electronic means. This transmission uses bearings to reduce friction in many locations where other transmissions may utilize bushings. The transmission also uses a unique scavenging system that removes oil spun off of the rotating parts by centrifugal force through strategically placed slots in the outside of the case. This saves energy that would be consumed by internal parts rotating in oil. Lubricating holes in the clutches are also positioned to promote quick passage of the transmission fluid through the discs, minimizing viscous losses due to trapped oil.
The shift schedule adapts to individual driving style, driving situation and road conditions, altering shift points based on an accelerator pedal usage, brake usage, lateral acceleration, altitude and load on the car as a result of grades. Electronically controlled engine torque management provides quick wide-open-throttle up shifts and quick two-step (4-2 or 3-1) kick-down shifts that are exceptionally smooth.
Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes shifts very smooth. The system monitors the transmission as shifts occur and adjusts hydraulic pressure as needed. In so doing, the controls make the powertrain feel responsive without harshness.
Driver recognition software alters shift points based on accelerator pedal usage, brake usage and lateral acceleration. This does not require a compromise between sporty and economical operation, nor is it a question of choosing one or the other.
A torque management system uses engine torque modeling to facilitate smooth transmission shifting. Because of electronic throttle control, torque management is more sophisticated and covers a broad torque range. Torque converter clutch slippage is electronically modulated and provides for partial engagement in Third, Fourth or Fifth gears. This results in improved shift feel, fuel economy, driveability and cooling. It can be used at lower speeds to provide benefits over a broad speed range. The system disengages as required to provide optimal performance.
According to Edmunds: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=106510
"...And that is why the entire present range of AMG cars equipped with the supercharged V8 or the twice-turboed V12 are also equipped with the company's archaic five-speed automatic transmission. The five-speed has a torque capacity of 796 lb-ft, while Mercedes' new seven-speed can only handle 542 lb-ft."
1st gear 3.588
2nd gear 2.186
3rd gear 1.405
4th gear 1.00
5th gear 0.831
reverse 3.16
3-channel torque converter
The W5A580 debuted in 1995 Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles and is known to be one of the smoothest, most fuel-efficient and cost-effective transmissions in the industry. Its unique three-channel torque converter helps provide an exceptionally smooth ride and shifting, while reducing fuel consumption.
A broad ratio spread from First to the Fifth was selected to minimize fuel consumption and reduce powertrain noise during cruising. An aggressive First-gear ratio provides excellent launch performance, and evenly spaced gear ratios provide smooth acceleration through the gears.
World-class efficiency is achieved through physical and electronic means. This transmission uses bearings to reduce friction in many locations where other transmissions may utilize bushings. The transmission also uses a unique scavenging system that removes oil spun off of the rotating parts by centrifugal force through strategically placed slots in the outside of the case. This saves energy that would be consumed by internal parts rotating in oil. Lubricating holes in the clutches are also positioned to promote quick passage of the transmission fluid through the discs, minimizing viscous losses due to trapped oil.
The shift schedule adapts to individual driving style, driving situation and road conditions, altering shift points based on an accelerator pedal usage, brake usage, lateral acceleration, altitude and load on the car as a result of grades. Electronically controlled engine torque management provides quick wide-open-throttle up shifts and quick two-step (4-2 or 3-1) kick-down shifts that are exceptionally smooth.
Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes shifts very smooth. The system monitors the transmission as shifts occur and adjusts hydraulic pressure as needed. In so doing, the controls make the powertrain feel responsive without harshness.
Driver recognition software alters shift points based on accelerator pedal usage, brake usage and lateral acceleration. This does not require a compromise between sporty and economical operation, nor is it a question of choosing one or the other.
A torque management system uses engine torque modeling to facilitate smooth transmission shifting. Because of electronic throttle control, torque management is more sophisticated and covers a broad torque range. Torque converter clutch slippage is electronically modulated and provides for partial engagement in Third, Fourth or Fifth gears. This results in improved shift feel, fuel economy, driveability and cooling. It can be used at lower speeds to provide benefits over a broad speed range. The system disengages as required to provide optimal performance.
According to Edmunds: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=106510
"...And that is why the entire present range of AMG cars equipped with the supercharged V8 or the twice-turboed V12 are also equipped with the company's archaic five-speed automatic transmission. The five-speed has a torque capacity of 796 lb-ft, while Mercedes' new seven-speed can only handle 542 lb-ft."
Thai
Elite Member
Link: http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?F=3088527&C=asiapac
Australia Taps Winners for $2.6B Vehicle Program
By Gregor Ferguson, SYDNEY
BAE Systems, Daimler Chrysler and local firm Haulmark Trailers Australia have been chosen to replace most of the Australian Defence Force
Australia Taps Winners for $2.6B Vehicle Program
By Gregor Ferguson, SYDNEY
BAE Systems, Daimler Chrysler and local firm Haulmark Trailers Australia have been chosen to replace most of the Australian Defence Force
Thai
Elite Member
Here is a great video (in German though) of G production: http://www.g-club-ruhrgebiet.de/film/production.wmv
Makes me proud to own one of these uniquely made vehicles!
Makes me proud to own one of these uniquely made vehicles!
JosephD05
New member
Thai said:Here is a great video (in German though) of G production: http://www.g-club-ruhrgebiet.de/film/production.wmv
Makes me proud to own one of these uniquely made vehicles!
Wow Thai, amazing. I wish I understood German though
. Are they still hand assembled?
Thai
Elite Member
Here is some info on the military G and Unimog: http://www.mercedes-benz.nl/content...ons/special_cars/0/specifieke_militaire0.html
G:
http://www.mercedes-benz.nl/content...ngle-MEDIA.download.tmp/G_280_cdi_4x4_-_2.pdf
http://www.mercedes-benz.nl/content...EDIA.download.tmp/G_280_cdi_4x4_-_6x6_-_2.pdf
http://www.mercedes-benz.nl/content...-Single-MEDIA.download.tmp/G_280_cdi_LAPV.pdf
G:
http://www.mercedes-benz.nl/content...ngle-MEDIA.download.tmp/G_280_cdi_4x4_-_2.pdf
http://www.mercedes-benz.nl/content...EDIA.download.tmp/G_280_cdi_4x4_-_6x6_-_2.pdf
http://www.mercedes-benz.nl/content...-Single-MEDIA.download.tmp/G_280_cdi_LAPV.pdf
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