Step into the Timeless Elegance of the 500 GE
Going back three decades, Mercedes decided to add some flair to the rugged G-Class by transplanting an iconic eight-cylinder engine into its chassis. Meet the 1990s' limited-edition masterpiece: the 500 GE. ntv.de took this vintage off-roader for a spin to uncover its hidden charms.
First Impressions: Don't let a mixed bag of updates or the newest model's imminent arrival trick you. Make no mistake; the legendary 500 GE continues to hold its unique charm, an icon of its time that offers more than just nostalgia.
A V8 Affair
Back in 1990, the arrival of an eight-cylinder engine in the G-Class was nothing short of remarkable. With the new W124 cockpit, the hardy off-roader became a more luxurious option, finally opening up the boulevards for this elegant powerhouse.
But the G's journey didn't stop there. Three years later, Mercedes conjured up a truly exceptional idea. With a few M117 series V8 engines left over, they decided to breathe some life into the G's heart, producing a powerful 240hp engine. Although it was no match for the SL and S-Class' modern four-valve engines, it still offered a unique driving experience for the 500 GE.
The 500 GE's Engaging Soundtrack
The classic 5.0L V8 engine under the hood may lose a bit of its commanding presence when compared to modern engines. Despite sounding familiar and delivering smooth purrs, Mercedes could have certainly done more when it came to sound engineering in those days. But the retro charm of the 500 GE's mellifluous growl will catapult you back in time, each rev revealing a little slice of history.
With its 400-unit production tally, finding one of these rare marvels may be a challenge, but when you do, you'll feel like you've struck gold.
History and Performance Details
The 500 GE's short yet impactful history stands out as a shining example of Mercedes-Benz's innovation and expertise.
- Introduction: Born out of a feasibility study at the 1993 Geneva International Motor Show, the 500 GE was a culmination of Mercedes-Benz's pursuit of performance and style in the G-Class lineup[1].
- Production: Only two units of the 560 GE were manufactured in 1993[1]. This limited-edition model, the W463 500 GE, graced the roads from 1993 to 1994.
- Modification: The transformation from a basic G-Class tested in Graz, Austria, to a beast of an off-roader seeking luxury diesel, took place at AMG's engineering center in Affalterbach. The chassis was reinforced and the body accommodated the M117 V8 engine[1].
- Performance Details: The 500 GE's 5.0L V8 engine (M117) generates 177 kW (241 PS; 237 hp) and 375 N⋅m (277 lb⋅ft)[1]. You can expect this powerful machine to leap from 0-100 kph in 11.4 seconds[1], making it the epitome of style and power during its time.
Unique Features
The Mercedes-Benz 500 GE boasts several distinctive features that made this model iconic and unforgettable, including:
- A special Amethyst Blue Metallic paint finish - exclusive to this model and extending to the cooling grille, bumpers, mirror housings, and fender flares[1].
- An interior clad in black leather, Walnut veneer, and medium grey contrast elements, while the steering wheel remains a nod to traditional G-Class styling[1].
The 500 GE is more than a piece of motoring history. It's a testament to Mercedes-Benz's enduring legacy and their ability to innovate and redefine their iconic G-Class lineup.
[1] Mercedes-Benz 500 GE: A Limited-Edition Off-Road Monster. (n.d.). Retrieved November 26, 2023, from .
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