Born Anew: Restoring the Ex-Military Mercedes-Benz W461 GWagon

The Mercedes-Benz GWagon, a symbol of robust engineering and luxury, offers a fascinating history divided between civilian and military use. The civilian W460 and the military W461 chassis highlight this dual nature. At Expedition Motor Company, we specialize in breathing new life into the latter, focusing on the 250GD Wolf, a model that brings the spirit of its military heritage to the roads of today.

The Civilian W460 GWagon

Photo Credit: Honest John Classics

Introduced in the late 1970s, the W460 was designed for the civilian market, offering a balance of comfort and functionality. This model featured a range of gasoline and diesel engines, with amenities suitable for daily driving and off-roading. The W460 became a staple SUV, celebrated for its unique combination of style, utility, and ruggedness.

The Military W461 GWagon

Contrasting sharply with its civilian counterpart, the W461 was engineered with austerity in mind, tailored for military and emergency services. The 250GD Wolf, produced between 1990 and 1993, was stripped down to essentials to serve in the toughest conditions imaginable. Features like the OM602 diesel engine, durable weatherproof interior, ammunition boxes, turret mounts, and additional fuel storage underscored its readiness for rugged terrains and challenging operations.

Restoring the 250GD Wolf

At Expedition Motor Company, we see the 250GD Wolf not just as a vehicle, but as a piece of history. Our restoration process involves meticulous craftsmanship to preserve its original spirit while adapting it to modern needs.

Each Wolf undergoes a thorough restoration, where we maintain the core elements that define its character—the OM602 engine, redesigned weatherproof interior, ammo box, map light, and folding windshield. These features are blended together with a handful of upgrades that transform the GWagon for the modern driver.

Understanding that our clients appreciate both heritage and personalization, we offer the opportunity to develop bespoke specifications for the vintage convertible GWagon. They are able to customize options such as exterior color, interior color, stitching color, and various exterior features. Whether its developing a one-of-a-kind interior or integrating subtle tech upgrades, each EMC Wolf is crafted to meet the precise specifications of its owner without compromising its utilitarian nature.

The heart of the W461 Wolf, the OM602 diesel engine, is renowned for its reliability and endurance. We ensure that this engine, along with all other drivetrain components, is rebuilt to perform under the most demanding conditions, affirming the Wolf’s capability to conquer both backroads and off-road environments.

Custom Convertible GWagons

The Mercedes-Benz 250GD Wolf represents a unique bridge between past and present. At Expedition Motor Company, we are dedicated to preserving this legacy through detailed restorations that meet the highest standards of quality and personalization. Whether you’re looking for a classic 4x4, a collectors item, or specifically a convertible Gwagon, contact us to discuss how we can bring your dream to life.