Military Turns Luxury

Mercedes-Benz first developed the G-Class, or Geländewagen, for the Iranian military, but when the order was cancelled due to political instability in that country, the model instead went into serial production. Tennis legend Ivan Lendl purchased this 300GD—a variant of the G-Class—which was customized by independent tuner AMG with a front fascia from the luxurious S-Class sedan. The two brands formed an official partnership in 1993, which saw AMG-tuned models, including upscale variants of the G-Class, sold directly by Mercedes-Benz. This 300GD marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the SUV beyond its utilitarian roots. Conceived for military use but repurposed for civilian life, the G-Class offered a foundation upon which luxury could be overlaid, delivering the prestige and comfort expected from the German marque alongside the durability and functionality of a purpose-built SUV. These traits would come to define the luxury SUV—now one of the most significant automotive market segments—in the decades that followed.

COLLECTION OF THE PATINA COLLECTIVE

This vehicle featured in the Totally Awesome! exhibit.

1983 Mercedes-Benz 300GD by AMG Gallery

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