This past weekend, Mercedes-Benz commemorated the production of its half-a-millionth G-Class with a decidedly rearview-looking special edition – no bad thing, considering the depth and richness of the German automaker’s archive.
Nicknamed the ‘Agave’, this milestone-making Mercedes SUV is an ode to the 280 GE: one of the core models in the inaugural G-Wagen family (W460), manufactured between 1979-1990.
Beyond the distinctive cactus-green hue – a colourway that is now considered typical of early ’80s G-Wagen – Mercedes’ designers saw fit to load this 500,000th edition up with a range of details that will have its lucky new owner careening around like the year is 1986 (Party All The Time soundtrack not included).
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The wagon’s fascia-style front grill is mounted with ‘grated’ headlights; guards are fitted with fender flares; and the classic hardtop roof comes with a rack-and-ladder attachment – all great for taking one’s adventures off-road (and making use of the G-Wagon’s three signature, independently locking differentials).
In addition, whereas contemporary G-Wagons usually feature a wheel design characterised by black, diamond-cut rims with twin spokes; the ‘Agave’ is decorated with rims that are period-correct for the 280 GE (i.e. silver, with a cut five-spoke design).
Notably, Mercedes-Benz reps didn’t provide any images of the vehicle’s interior; but have confirmed that here, again, the set-up is distinct from the garden-variety G500 – featuring “checker patterned” upholstery and passenger-side door handles that are branded with the ‘No. 500,000″ designation.
This milestone model comes at a time when, conversely, Mercedes is investing significantly in the G-Wagon’s electrified future. Most likely to be designated ‘EQG’, this new zero-emissions variant has already been spotted undergoing testing in Northern Sweden; and will provide yet another way for the brand’s customers to embrace the Geländewagen lineage when it launches (exact date TBA) in 2024.
