For generations, German military vehicles were built to be tough and easy to maintain—but not necessarily comfortable or luxurious. Then, in 1979, Mercedes-Benz developed an accessible version of those rugged military machines for the consumer market. The Geländewagen was born.
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However, not all Mercedes-Benz G-Wagens were created equally. The 1986 W460 G-Wagen model listed on eBay, with its soft convertible top and fold-down windshield, is known as the Wolf. Little thought is put into creature comfort, and maximum attention is paid to functionality and utility. Wolf variants are meant for hardy folks willing to forgo heated seats and a smooth ride in exchange for unstoppable reliability.
Style Over Speed
The ‘86 W460 G-Wagen exhibits the model’s lean-and-mean style and functionality but comes with an extra dose of horsepower. Even better, its Buy-It-Now price of $82,000 is a fraction of the cost of an ultra-luxe new G500.
The inspiration for the G-Wagen came from the Shah of Iran, then a Mercedes-Benz shareholder. The Shah thought the company could build machines to compete with the venerable Toyota Land Cruiser - opens in new window or tab. and Land Rover Defender - opens in new window or tab..
The first Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen came with solid axles, four-wheel drive, and three engine choices: a 2.3-liter gas power plant, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder diesel, or a 3.0-liter five-cylinder diesel. Unfortunately, none of them made noteworthy power.
Over the years, the G-Wagen morphed into a ridiculous speed machine while keeping the boxy silhouette and three locking differentials. The current AMG G 63 makes north of 575 horsepower and scoots from a dead stop to 60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds. Yowza.
This classic 1986 G-Wagen won’t get you to your destination so quickly, but other drivers will feel your presence. This rig retains the current model’s boxy lines, but they are even more pronounced. There isn’t a curved line anywhere to be found on the body. The Germans only used right angles to bring this Wagen to fruition. The boxy look is not everyone’s cup of tea, but those who like it absolutely adore it.
Off-Road Performance Upgrades
From 1993 to 2001, Mercedes placed a 3.0-liter six-cylinder OM606 diesel powerplant under the hood, and that’s what you’ll find here.
Back in the day, it could unleash up to 177 ponies. But here, the seller tuned it to produce a whopping 225 horsepower. The diesel mates to a five-speed overdrive manual transmission that should be a joy to shift.
Other thoughtful modifications include:
- A larger water pump
- An upgraded radiator
Large 33-inch Toyo Mud Terrain - opens in new window or tab. tires wrap around 16-inch steel wheels. Steelies are the best choice here, and we’ll fight anyone who disagrees. A 4.9 final drive means acceleration is strong, so there shouldn’t be any problems getting those shoes to move.
This Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen is “The Real Deal”
The seller added rear forward-facing seats and a pair of inward-facing seats. Both sets have seat belts, but the person sitting in the middle lacks the same level of safety. One bump over a rock and heads could connect with the roll bar - opens in new window or tab.. We recommend padding at that spot.
This example is a convertible with a fabric top, plastic rear side, and rear zipper windows that roll up and are secured by straps. The rear tailgate, with a full-size spare, swings away so rear passengers can easily climb in. The rig includes a tow hitch and a jerry can for spare fuel. Oh, and the windshield folds down. Sure, that little feature was built to facilitate shipping, but now it’s just cool. Grab your goggles and feel the wind in your hair.
Inside you won’t get many creature comforts other than air conditioning. Heck, there isn’t even a radio. But who needs tunes when you’re cruising through Moab, conquering every trail you attempt?
The seller states:
This Wolf is not a wannabe in orange or yellow with diamond stitch interior and wheels so big it will kill your engine. No, this is the real deal people are dreaming of.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.