Mercedes Benz G500

 Originally developed for the German military, the G Wagen (full name: Gelandewagen, essentially “cross-country vehicle” in German) caught on as a premium sport/utility in Europe some years ago. And it’s no poseur; the six-beam ladder frame structure is ultra stiff, ground clearance is substantial, and the square-rigged steel bodywork is as aerodynamic as a side-by-side Amana. All appropriate off-roader hardware is there, including a multi-range transfer case and center, front, and rear locking differentials. It’s been powered by a number of gasoline and diesel engines over the years, but mostly various straight sixes that proved only adequate. Bottom line, the G Wagen is purposeful, capable, rare, handbuilt-and expensive.

It’s also much improved for ’99. Mercedes has finally upped the engine ante by giving the G Wagen its first V-8. It’s essentially the same all-alloy SOHC, three-valves-per-cylinder powerplant available in the SL500 sports car, retuned for beefier low-end torque production. In G Wagen trim, it’s rated at 300 horsepower and backed by a five-speed, multimode automatic transmission. Also new is an exceptionally handsome 18-inch wheel and tire package.