The Mercedes-Benz G-class Long (W463) 500 GE V8 4MATIC Automatic, produced briefly between January and December of 1993, represents a unique and powerful iteration of the iconic G-Wagen. Positioned as a premium offering within the W463 series – the first generation of G-Class vehicles to be widely available to the public – the 500 GE combined the rugged capability expected of the G-Class with the performance of a naturally aspirated V8 engine and the convenience of an automatic transmission. This model was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a luxurious and capable off-road vehicle, particularly in markets where larger displacement engines were favored. It served as a bridge between the earlier, more utilitarian G-Wagens and the increasingly refined models that would follow.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463) |
| Type | 500 GE V8 (241 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 1993 |
| End of production | December, 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 1 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 101.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 158.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 241 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 375 Nm @ 3500 rpm (276.59 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 117.965 |
| Engine displacement | 4973 cm3 (303.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.5 mm (3.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3050 kg (6724.1 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 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 with brakes (12%) | 3050 kg (6724.1 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4670 mm (183.86 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1963 mm (77.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 210 mm (8.27 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.3 m (43.64 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 36° |
| Departure angle | 27° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R 16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5 J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 500 GE is the M 117.965 engine, a 4.973-liter (303.47 cubic inch) naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a descendant of Mercedes-Benz’s long-running M117 family, features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. The M117 was known for its smooth power delivery and robust construction. Producing 241 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 375 Nm (276.59 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm, the engine provided ample power for both on-road cruising and off-road excursions. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 500 GE utilized a 4-speed automatic transmission, providing convenient shifting and enhancing the vehicle’s usability. This transmission was chosen to balance performance with ease of driving, particularly in challenging off-road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 500 GE’s combination of a powerful V8 and an automatic transmission resulted in a driving experience that was both refined and capable. While not a sports car, the 500 GE could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 10 seconds and reach a top speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, did slightly diminish acceleration compared to the manual transmission options available in other G-Wagen variants. However, the automatic’s torque converter multiplied engine torque, providing strong low-end grunt for off-road climbing and towing. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensured excellent traction in a variety of terrains, making the 500 GE a formidable off-road performer.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As a premium variant, the 500 GE came standard with a relatively high level of equipment. Interior features typically included comfortable seating for five passengers, often upholstered in leather. Power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system were also standard. Optional extras could include air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior trim was generally more luxurious than that found in base-model G-Wagens, reflecting the 500 GE’s higher price point. The long wheelbase version offered increased rear passenger space and cargo capacity compared to the standard-length G-Class.
Chassis & Braking
The 500 GE retained the G-Class’s rugged ladder-frame chassis, providing exceptional durability and off-road capability. Suspension consisted of coil springs and rigid axles with trailing arms, offering a comfortable ride on paved roads while maintaining excellent articulation for off-road use. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during braking. The steering system was a recirculating ball type with hydraulic power assistance, providing a good balance of feel and ease of use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 500 GE was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, comfortable interior, and exceptional off-road capability. However, its relatively high price and fuel consumption were noted drawbacks. Compared to other G-Wagen variants, such as the diesel-powered models, the 500 GE offered significantly more performance but at the cost of fuel economy. Against competitors like the Range Rover, the 500 GE offered a more utilitarian and robust character, appealing to buyers who prioritized capability over luxury.
Legacy
The 1993 Mercedes-Benz G-class Long 500 GE V8 4MATIC Automatic, despite its short production run, remains a desirable collector’s item. The M117 engine is known for its durability, though maintenance can be costly due to its age and complexity. Finding parts can also be a challenge. Today, well-maintained examples command high prices in the used car market, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate the G-Class’s unique blend of luxury, performance, and off-road capability. It represents a pivotal moment in the G-Class’s evolution, bridging the gap between its military origins and its modern status as a luxury SUV.
