Mercedes-Benz surprised its fans this spring by unveiling a new, limited-run G Wagon that looks and feels like it stepped straight out of the 1980s. Dubbed the Edition “Stronger Than The 1980s,” this special model borrows styling cues and even colors from the original W460 Geländewagen that first rolled off the line in 1979, then wraps them around the modern G550 chassis. Only 460 examples will be built, a nod to the W460’s internal code, and each one wears a badge inside marking its unique number.
Mercedes product planners say the idea sprang from a 2023 one off show car in Agave Green that went viral on social media, with fans flooding forums and comments asking, “Where and when can I buy one?” This gave off a nostalgic feeling because the G-Wagon series began originally as a full-fledged military vehicle. Its production for the general market began when and one of Mercedes biggest shareholder, The Shah of Iran suggested that Mercedes should make a civilian version of the off-road vehicle for his personal use.
On the outside, the Heritage G550 is offered in three solid Manufaktur colors: Agave Green, Colorado Beige, and Cream White, all of which were among the first paint options when the G Wagon debuted in the early 80s. The grille, bumpers, fender flares, and mirrors are finished in soft sheen Magno Black, just as they were back then, and the standard wheels are silver 18-inch five-spoke alloys wrapped in chunky all terrain tires to complete the retro look.
Open the door, and the throwback theme continues. Black leather seats are trimmed with dove grey plaid fabric in the center panels, matching the checked cloth used in high-spec 1980s models. The passenger grab handle is engraved with “Stronger Than The 1980s,” while the B pillar bears a “Schöckl Proved” badge rendered in period correct graphics, an homage to the mountain trails near Graz where Mercedes has tested the G Class since day one
Underneath all the vintage styling sits the familiar, modern G550 you already know: a twin-turbo V8, full-time four-wheel drive, three locking differentials, and the same ladder frame construction that has powered G Class off-road prowess for decades. Standard creature comforts include a Burmester 3D sound system and a sunroof, while buyers can option up the heavy-duty roof rack and ladder from the G Professional package if they’re heading into the backcountry
Pricing reflects the exclusivity and nostalgia on board in the U.K., orders start at £152,815, while in the U.S., it’s expected to be a bit over the base G550, putting it near $176,000 before options. For a G Wagon that promises the same modern muscle and refinement under its retro skin, that premium buys a rare piece of history reimagined for today. Whether this edition will become the new classic is up to collectors and off roaders alike, but for anyone who grew up dreaming of a boxy, orange blinker G Wagon roaring through the sand, it a chance to own a rolling tribute a reminder that some legends never fade, they only get stronger with time.
