The Mercedes-Benz G 55 AMG Long, produced between April 2007 and June 2008, represents a high-performance iteration of the iconic G-Class (W463) series. This extended-wheelbase variant, part of the facelifted W463 generation, combined the G-Class’s legendary off-road capability with the potent power of the supercharged 5.4-liter AMG V8 engine. Positioned as the flagship performance model within the G-Class lineup at the time, the G 55 Long catered to buyers seeking a luxurious and exceptionally capable SUV with substantial power. It bridged the gap between the utilitarian origins of the G-Wagen and the increasing demand for high-end, performance-oriented SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463, facelift 2007) |
| Type | AMG G 55 V8 Kompressor (500 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2007 |
| End of production | June, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 21.4 l/100 km (11 US mpg, 13.2 UK mpg, 4.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.7 l/100 km (18.5 US mpg, 22.2 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg, 17.8 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 378 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 202 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 282.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 500 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 2750-4000 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 2750-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.993 |
| Engine displacement | 5439 cm3 (331.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2475 kg (5456.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 725 kg (1598.35 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 2250 l (79.46 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 200 kg (440.92 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4662 mm (183.54 in.) |
| Width | 1864 mm (73.39 in.) |
| Height | 1931 mm (76.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.3 m (43.64 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 37° |
| Departure angle | 31° |
| Ramp-over angle | 23° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives all four wheels permanently |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle, Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 285/55 R 18 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.5 J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the G 55 Long is the M113.993 5.4-liter V8 engine. This engine, a mainstay of AMG performance models during the early 2000s, features a Lysholm-type supercharger, providing instant boost and a broad torque curve. The engine utilizes a three-valve per cylinder (three intake, two exhaust) SOHC valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. The supercharger, along with an intercooler, helps to manage intake air temperatures and maximize power output. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6) was specifically tuned by AMG to handle the engine’s substantial torque and provide smooth, yet responsive shifts. While not the most modern transmission by today’s standards, it was robust and well-suited to the G 55’s character.
Driving Characteristics
The G 55 Long delivers a unique driving experience. Despite its size and weight, the supercharged V8 provides exhilarating acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 5.2 seconds. The automatic transmission, while not offering the lightning-fast shifts of modern gearboxes, provides a comfortable and predictable driving experience. The long wheelbase contributes to a more stable ride on paved roads compared to the standard G-Class, but it doesn’t entirely eliminate the inherent body roll associated with a tall, heavy SUV. Off-road, the G 55 Long retains the G-Class’s legendary capability, thanks to its full-time four-wheel drive system, three locking differentials, and robust suspension. However, the increased length can make maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 55 Long came standard with a high level of equipment, befitting its flagship status. Interior features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, and a premium audio system. The extended wheelbase provided increased rear passenger legroom compared to the standard G-Class. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded leather options, and various customization options through AMG’s designo program. The interior, while luxurious, retained a functional and robust feel, reflecting the G-Class’s utilitarian origins.
Chassis & Braking
The G 55 Long utilizes a body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of the G-Class. The suspension consists of coil springs and rigid axles front and rear, providing excellent articulation for off-road driving. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The chassis is reinforced to handle the increased weight and power of the AMG engine. Stabilizer bars are present to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 55 Long was generally well-received by critics, who praised its combination of luxury, performance, and off-road capability. However, its high price tag and substantial fuel consumption were noted drawbacks. Compared to the standard G 55, the Long offered increased rear passenger space and a more comfortable ride. Compared to other high-performance SUVs of the time, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the G 55 Long offered a more unique and rugged character, but lacked the Cayenne’s on-road refinement. Fuel economy was predictably poor, averaging around 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg).
Legacy
The G 55 Long, while a relatively short-lived model, remains a desirable collector’s item. The M113 engine, while known for its power, requires diligent maintenance, particularly regarding the supercharger and cooling system. The 5-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, is showing its age. Despite these potential maintenance concerns, the G 55 Long’s unique combination of luxury, performance, and off-road capability ensures its continued appeal in the used car market. It represents a distinctive chapter in the G-Class’s evolution, bridging the gap between its utilitarian past and its current status as a high-end luxury SUV.
