The Mercedes-Benz G 350 Turbo (W463 Long) represented a significant, though often overlooked, variant within the iconic G-Class lineup. Produced briefly between September 1993 and July 1994, this model aimed to offer a more accessible entry point into the G-Wagen world, particularly in European markets where diesel engines were favored. Positioned below the more potent G 360 AMG and the later G 320, the G 350 Turbo provided a blend of G-Class capability with a smaller, turbocharged diesel engine and an automatic transmission. It was built on the W463 platform, the long-wheelbase version offering increased passenger and cargo space compared to the standard G-Wagen.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class Long (W463) |
| Type | G 350 Turbo (136 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1993 |
| End of production | July, 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg, 20.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 145 km/h (90.1 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Torque | 305 Nm @ 1800 rpm (224.96 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 603.972 |
| Engine displacement | 3449 cm3 (210.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.4 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2950 kg (6503.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 710 kg (1565.28 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 4635 mm (182.48 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1936 mm (76.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Rear track | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/80 R 16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6 J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the G 350 Turbo was the OM 603.972, a 3.5-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in Mercedes-Benz diesels of the era, known for its relatively quiet operation and good fuel efficiency. The addition of a turbocharger boosted output to 136 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 305 Nm (224.96 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1800 rpm. This torque figure was a key characteristic, providing strong low-end pulling power ideal for off-road driving and towing. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The four-speed automatic transmission, a common unit in Mercedes-Benz vehicles of the time, was specifically chosen to provide ease of use and comfort, appealing to a broader range of drivers than the standard manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The G 350 Turbo’s driving experience was defined by its torque-rich diesel engine and automatic transmission. While not a performance machine – acceleration to 60 mph took around 15.2 seconds – it offered ample power for everyday driving and off-road excursions. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to shift, and lacked the responsiveness of the manual options available in other G-Wagen models. The gear ratios were optimized for towing and low-speed off-road crawling rather than outright acceleration. Compared to the G 360 AMG, the G 350 Turbo felt significantly less powerful, but it offered a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience. Compared to the later G 320, the G 350 Turbo’s turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in low-end torque, though the G 320’s larger displacement engine ultimately offered more overall power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 350 Turbo was generally equipped with a fairly basic level of trim, reflecting its position as a more affordable G-Wagen. Standard features typically included cloth upholstery, manual windows and door locks, and a relatively simple dashboard layout. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were features like power windows and upgraded audio systems. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The exterior typically featured steel wheels, black plastic fender flares, and a spare tire carrier on the rear door. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The G 350 Turbo retained the G-Wagen’s legendary off-road chassis. It featured a robust ladder frame construction, solid axles front and rear, and a permanent four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case. Suspension consisted of coil springs and trailing arm setups at both ends. Braking was accomplished via disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear – a cost-saving measure compared to the all-disc setups found on higher-end G-Wagen models. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety on paved roads. The steering utilized a cone worm and recirculation ball system, providing a direct but somewhat heavy feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 350 Turbo received mixed reviews. Critics acknowledged its off-road capability and the practicality of its diesel engine, but some found the performance underwhelming, particularly compared to the more powerful G-Wagen variants. Fuel economy was a strong point, however, with the diesel engine offering significantly better mileage than the gasoline-powered models. In terms of reliability, the OM 603 engine proved to be durable and long-lasting, though maintenance costs could be high due to the complexity of the diesel injection system. Compared to other vehicles in its class, the G 350 Turbo offered a unique combination of luxury, off-road capability, and fuel efficiency, but its high price tag limited its appeal to a niche market.
Legacy
The G 350 Turbo, despite its short production run, has become a sought-after model among G-Wagen enthusiasts. Its relative rarity and the robust nature of its diesel engine contribute to its collectibility. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market. The OM 603 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, these vehicles can continue to provide reliable service for many years. The G 350 Turbo represents a unique chapter in the G-Wagen’s history, offering a blend of classic G-Class character with a more accessible price point and fuel-efficient diesel power.
