I may be in the market for a mid to early 80's gelaendewagen and I was wondering if anyone could give me some info on actually owning one these beasts. I drive a 1987 300E with 169k and have also owned a 1975 300D, so I am used to Mercedes maintenance . Should I expect to pay on average much more to keep up a G? Also, I know the hp rating is quite low for the 300GD, but are they terribly slow? Basically, what are the pros/cons of owning a diesel or petrol G? Having owned both, the lack of power does not bother me as long as we aren't talking 240D slow. Also, I see Keiser motors has some decent looking early 80's for sale, is this a trustworthy source, or would I be better off looking for a private seller? What is a fair price for a five door mid to early 80s G with low miles? Sorry for the thousands of questions, but I want to make sure I understand what I may be getting into. Thanks in advance!
Chris

Chris,

If your serious, get a subscription to CPI (Cars of Particular Interest) (800) 972-5312.

Norm Keiser is a reputable gent. A number of fellow G Wagen owners have purchased from him.

of the 1986 and below, the 280GE has the most HP. I own a 1986 280GE. I had debated between diesel and auto/manual trannys. Ended up with an auto. Glad I did. I own a Volvo and 450SEL. so I pretty much had all the tools.

Internet Search Yields Results...
 

Chris, go to metacrawler: http://www.metacrawler.com, and do a search for "Mercedes Gelaendewagen". You will be amazed at all of the sites, sales, and clubs listed there. :cool:

Some of the G-Wagen specific sites may be better equipped to answer your questions for the time being than the G-wagen forum here as it just started today.

[Edited by longston on 02-19-2001 at 03:40 PM]

Chris,

Feel free to repost in the new G-Wagen forum. I and the folks that are moving to it can help you get started.

superb
 

First, thanks JR! This has been one of my favorite sites for quite some time. Now with a G section I can "one stop shop" for Mercedes info.

Chris,
The 300GD IS 240D slow. Remember the G wieghs 5000 lbs, and is shaped like a brick. Top speeds hover around 75 mph.

I would not expect more maint than any other you have owned. The G is very overbuilt components are designed to last a long time. Like any used vehicle, get it inspected and try to be present for the inspection.

I like the 280GE autos or possibly a 230GE manual in SWB. I think Norm Keiser has a good inventory of used Gs. His prices are fair. That is where I bought my '95 from. Good luck and post if you have any other questions.
Brent

GWagen power
 

The diesel G is even slower than a 240D -- it weighs almost twice as much (6,000 lbs is closer to the truth than 5,000 lbs, not to mention that it's the antithesis of streamlining -- so the result is obvious). I've got a 280GE, and I'm spending a pretty penny to get more horsepower (see my post on this forum).
Don't get me wrong, it's got planty of power at lower speeds when you can use the gears -- it's at highway speeds (on hills) when you'll feel the shortages.

re Norman Keiser's trustworthiness
 

I bought my G from Norman. I can't fault him. I'd buy another from him if he has one that I'd want when I'm ready to trade up.