The Mercedes 230GE G Wagon
Photo Credit: Collecting Cars
The 230GE was a G Wagon model produced in the 1980s and 1990s. This particular G Wagon was badged both as a Mercedes-Benz but also a "Puch." Puch, an Austrian brand founded in 1889 by Johann Puch, orignally specialized in bicycle manufacturing. When the 230GE G Wagon was in production, Mercedes made a deal with Puch allowing them to sell the 230GE under the Puch name, primarily in European markets like Austria and Switzerland where Puch had local brand recognition. While the 230GEs titled and badged as Puch shared many mechanical components with their Mercedes counterparts, the Mercedes variant featured some differences, such as upgraded trims and higher quality interiors.
230GE G Wagon Technical Info
Photo Credit: Dyler
The 230GE (G230E, 230G) was produced in both the W460 and W461 model, with the W461 being the chassis destination for military and emergency service applications. Many of the 230GE G Wagons seen in the market today are ex-Swiss military Puch models.
The W461 230GE was a long-wheelbase Geländewagen, sporting 2 doors, and a convertible body style. This configuration was favorable for transporting multiple troops or essential equipment such as portable power supplies. For its drivetrain, the 230GE was equipped with the M 102 E23 engine, a 2.3L four cylinder gasoline engine. It produced about 123 horsepower and was mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. Part-time four-wheel-drive operation was controlled in the cabin via the transfer case, allowing drivers to use two-wheel drive high, four wheel-drive high, and four-wheel drive low. Depending on the region, some models came with independent front and rear differential lockers, while many only came with a central differential
locker.
Photo Credit: Swiss Army Vehicles
230GE Ownership
The design and engineering of the 230GE G Wagon were primarily tailored to meet the demands of military and emergency services. While these features were advantageous in operational scenarios requiring robustness and reliability under varied conditions, they translate differently in everyday civilian use. This focus resulted in a unpleasant transmission and an engine characterized by lower power for non-emergency and non-military scenarios.
Photo Credit: Swiss Army Vehicles
Today, owners might find the driving experience challenging in urban and suburban settings. The vehicle's gearing and torque curve can feel cumbersome when navigating city traffic or backroads. Additionally, the specialized nature of the drivetrain has led to a scarcity of replacement parts, potentially resulting in extended periods of downtime for repairs and maintenance. This aspect of ownership requires consideration for those looking to use the vehicle outside of its original design intentions.
The 250GD Wolf
Photo Credit: Bring a Trailer
The Mercedes 250GD, another W461 military model, is famously known for its nickname the "Wolf." This nickname was given by the German Bundeswehr and is associated with the short wheel base, 2 door, cabriolet G Wagon with a folding windshield.
The 250GD Wolf came equipped with one of Mercedes' most renowned diesel engines, the 2.5L OM602. This engine, paired with the 5 speed "ironblock" transmission, provided an extremely reliable and capable package for soldiers in combat environments. Unlike many diesel engines, the OM602 has a unique power-band in that it produces useable power in both the low and higher rev ranges. While it is not considered a high-powered engine, its unique power-band and torque curve enables it to be successful on and off-road. Fortunately, parts are also still readily available directly from Mercedes-Benz.
The EMC Wolf
Expedition Motor Company (EMC), a restomod company based in Frenchtown, New Jersey, accepts commissions for their restored Mercedes 250GD Wolf. Since their founding in 2017, they have restored and retailed over 160 units that are now being enjoyed by their owners across the globe.
Their Founder, Alex, is obsessed with the 250GD and decided to share his passion with the World. EMC's focus has been to develop and re-design the ex-military cabriolet G Wagon for the modern driver. The result is a collector-grade 250GD that undergoes a 2,300 man-hour G Wagon restoration process, seeing the entire vehicle, disassembled and restored to OEM-spec or upgraded to improve the driving experience. EMC offers their clients a slew of customizable options, allowing them to develop their creative vision for the classic G.
EMC G Wagon Options
During the commission process clients meet with Alex and develop their specification. This process includes selecting options such as exterior color, interior seat color, engine, transmission, premium sound systems, and exterior design features.
EMC offers 3 different engines: the OM602 diesel, OM60Xa Turbodiesel, and gasoline LS3 V8. This lineup provides drivers with flexible options based upon what their vision is for the Wolf. The OM602 is for those who wants the original, authentic heart of the Wolf. The OM60Xa Turbodiesel is for someone who wants to stay within the Mercedes family, but wants about 250-300 horsepower. The LS3 V8 is for the individual who wants to experience the raw power of a 6.2 V8 while enjoying the design features, engineering, and pedigree of an EMC Wolf. You can explore their custom G Wagon Wolf Builder here. For direct inquiries, you can reach out via email at [email protected] or contact them by phone at 267-714-4112.
Conclusion
The Puch 230GE can be a great choice for someone looking to own a piece of G Wagon history. However, like all classic car purchases, it is important to perform due diligence on the ownership experience.
For those looking to commission a rare cabrio G Wagon, head over to EMC's website here: https://www.expeditionmotorcompany.com/