2005 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Geneva, Mar 02, 2004 - It's now exactly 25 years since the Mercedes-Benz G-Class made its first public appearance. Since then, these models have made a name for themselves all over the world and have been sold to over 182,000 customers. The supercharged V8 G 55 AMG, the latest high point in the career of this one-of-a-kind classic, is now on display in Geneva. The eight-cylinder power plant of this new addition to the G-model family develops 350 kW/476 hp and peak torque of 700 Newton metres, giving this robust off-roader new dimensions in power and assurance. Offering 34 per cent more power and 32 per cent more torque than the predecessor naturally aspirated V8 model, the new G 55 AMG demonstrates once again that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a vehicle with enormous potential.
With two diesel and three petrol units, the G-model offers easily the largest engine line-up of any off-road model. Extending from the 115 kW/156 hp G 270 CDI through the V8 turbodiesel G 400 CDI to the new G 55 AMG, the model range caters for a complete spectrum of customer requirements. The new AMG model is available as a five-door long-wheelbase station wagon and will enter the Mercedes-Benz showrooms in June 2004.

The state-of-the-art supercharged V8, already familiar from other AMG performance models, was voted 'Best Performance Engine' in the 'International Engine Awards 2003'. Its acceleration allows the G 55 AMG to leave many sports cars trailing, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.6 seconds, while 200 km/h comes up in just 23.0 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 210 km/h. Whether on or off the road, the G 55 AMG has ample power in reserve, treating its passengers to unrivalled superior-ity, exclusiveness and performance.

Before the supercharged AMG engine was fitted in the G-Class, numerous modifications and new developments were necessary in the area of the powertrain, chassis and brake system. A new oil sump provides reliable lubrication in all operating situations, while boost air temperature is reduced by an engine-mounted air-to-water intercooler and two front-mounted low-temperature coolers. A more powerful electric suction fan keeps the coolant temperature in the correct range at all times.

A new-design, larger-diameter AMG sports exhaust system with high-performance catalytic converter technology reduces exhaust back pressure and ensures compliance with the EÚ4 emissions standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com) Visual and audible confirmation of the G 55 AMG's potency is provided by the two oval twin-tailpipes which emerge at an angle in front of the rear wheels and by the typical throaty AMG V8 engine sound.

New AMG chassis tuning and high-performance brake systemThe increased performance required a complete redesign of the chassis and brake system. Higher-rate springs at the front axle in combination with retuned gas-pressure shock absorbers front and rear make for a high level of agility combined with typical Mercedes-Benz long-distance ride comfort. This goes hand in hand with the superior allterrain talents which are a trademark of all the G-models. These capabilities are provided by extensive specification which includes low-range drive ratios, three driver-selectable 100% full-locking differentials and the acclaimed high-performance active safety systems Electronic Stability Program ESP?, 4-ETS Electronic Traction System and Brake Assist. All these systems have been matched specifically to the increased power and torque of the new model.

The newly developed high-performance brake system with large, vented brake discs front and rear can be finely controlled. It offers powerful deceleration and impressive fade resistance.

Extensive standard specification with striking highlights


A sporty and exclusive interior with many luxurious touches greets passengers entering the G 55 AMG. First the eye takes in the four stainless steel door sills with illuminated blue AMG logo, closely followed by the finest-quality designo leather upholstery on the door centre panels and on all seats. From the front seats, with electric adjustment and memory function, the driver and front passenger can feast their eyes on the high-quality designo wood dashboard trim and the instrument cluster with 'V8 KOMPRESSOR' lettering, red needles and 260 km/h speedometer scale. The lavish standard specification of the G 55 AMG also includes the THERMATIC automatic climate control and the COMAND APS control and display system with navigation function.

Source - Mercedes-Benz