Tracy,

There is a little better alternative in the realm of UNIMOG. I bought a diesel model. Mine has a compressed air system, hydraulics, PTO drives and the diesels are a little heavier duty.

The alternative is the gas powered 404 series Mog. These are the most popular, they are considerably less expensive as well. Most are soft tops, 2-door with a good sized flat bed on the back. They can be had in excellent condition for about $7-8000. Parts are plentiful and inexpensive. These were the military Mogs used all over Europe. They are now being replaced and are coming to the US in droves. They are quieter due to the gas engine, and the soft top gives a little more cabin room. The engine cover that is so intrusive on the diesels is considerably smaller in the 404.

So, if my primary use for the Mog was recreational off-roading I would have a Swiss 404. My needs ran towards needing a big snowplow and dumptruck. The 416 series was a better choice for me. While the 404 would still be slow, the rest of the issues are suitably addressed IMO.

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1995 G320
1984 280GE
1971 Unimog 416