1983 MERCEDES-BENZ G-WAGON 'KASTENWAGEN' Registration Numbe...

Hammer

£44,000

1983 MERCEDES-BENZ G-WAGON 'KASTENWAGEN'

Registration Number: A806 KFP
Chassis Number: 46033222029837

- 500 miles since comprehensive chassis-up restoration
- Built an estimated cost of c. £70,000

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class or G-Wagon, short for Geländewagen (cross-country vehicle), is characterised by its boxy styling and body-on-frame construction. It uses three fully locking differentials, one of the few vehicles to have such a feature. The G-Class is still in production and is one of the longest produced Mercedes-Benz in Daimler’s history. The model was developed as a military vehicle from a suggestion by the Shah of Iran and offered as a civilian version from 1979. A new version was expected for 2007, but ultimately whilst the new GL-Class is a fine performing product in the Mercedes tradition, it was not sufficient to steal the affection for the classic Geländewagen. And so the G-Wagon is still in production and selling well to the current day. In addition to short and long wheelbase station wagons, professional buyers could specify a three door ‘Kastenwagen’ (panel van), in addition to pickups and rolling chassis for custom builds.

This outstanding and rare RHD Kastenwagen has recently been comprehensively restored by a UK-based marque specialist, all new or reconditioned components throughout. The van body was removed, the chassis blasted and refinished in etch primer followed by two pack paint. The body was stripped, returned to bare metal, repaired as necessary and refinished in China Blue with 3M stone chip resistant underseal and modern insulation. Military bumpers and mirrors complete the look externally. To finish the interior, all gauges were reconditioned, the Recaro heated seats retrimmed in black Nappa leather, and Sony Apple carplay/Sat Nav unit fitted,

The OM605 5 cylinder engine was stripped, and rebuilt with new gaskets and seals, a new radiator, water pump, hoses, intercooler and oil cooler. With a 7.5 mm Dieselmeken injection pump and Holset turbo, the motor is good for an estimated 250bhp, breathing through a 65mm stainless steel exhaust system. The six-speed manual gearbox was rebuilt, and mated to the engine with a new flywheel and clutch, and a rare PTO transfer box which could operate a winch if required. 

The axles have been overhauled with difficult to source 4.1:1 ratios, all new bearings and seals, whilst the suspension has received all new components and zinc-plated fastenings. The propshafts were rebuilt and balanced, and a new steering box installed, with new ball joints as required. The braking system has been renewed throughout, with cupronickel lines and new calipers. A new plastic fuel tank was installed, with a new sender.

As you can imagine, after this huge amount of effort, with only in the region of 500 miles since completion, the Kastenwagen runs and drives as new, and we understand from 2024 will also be tax and MoT exempt. Offered with a V5C, and a recently granted MoT certificate, this is quite possibly the coolest way imaginable to carry dogs, firewood, bikes, supplies or worktools, or just about anything!

The Kastenwagen is offered with a UK V5, photographic record and schedule of the restoration.