The Mercedes-Benz G 55 AMG, produced between April 2001 and May 2004, represents a high-performance iteration of the iconic G-Class (W463) following its 2000 facelift. Positioned as the flagship model within the W463 range, the G 55 AMG catered to buyers seeking a blend of extreme off-road capability and substantial on-road performance. It built upon the G-Class’s established reputation for ruggedness and durability, adding AMG’s signature enhancements to create a uniquely potent and luxurious SUV. This variant occupied the premium segment of the G-Class lineup, significantly exceeding the capabilities and price point of the base G 320 and G 400 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class (W463, facelift 2000) |
| Type | AMG G 55 V8 (354 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2001 |
| End of production | May, 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 21.6 l/100 km (10.9 US mpg, 13.1 UK mpg, 4.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 16.2 l/100 km (14.5 US mpg, 17.4 UK mpg, 6.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 388 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h (129.87 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 148.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 219.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 354 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 525 Nm @ 3000 rpm (387.22 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.982 |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2390 kg (5269.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2850 kg (6283.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 250 l (8.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1580 l (55.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2850 kg (6283.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4230 mm (166.54 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1931 mm (76.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.54 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 37° |
| Departure angle | 31° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 23° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| 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 | 5 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 | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/60 R 18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5 J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the G 55 AMG is the M113.982 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of AMG’s performance lineup in the early 2000s, features a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a three-valve-per-cylinder (two intake, one exhaust) SOHC valvetrain and a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 354 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 525 Nm (387 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. The M113 engine is known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission (722.6), specifically tuned by AMG for quicker shifts and enhanced durability. This transmission features a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The G 55 AMG’s driving experience is unique, blending the inherent characteristics of the G-Class with AMG’s performance enhancements. While the 5.4-liter V8 provides ample power, the G 55’s substantial weight (approximately 5,269 lbs) limits outright acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes around 7 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 129.87 mph. The automatic transmission, while refined for its time, isn’t as responsive as modern gearboxes. However, it provides smooth shifts and contributes to the vehicle’s ease of use. The G-Class’s solid axles and tall gearing prioritize off-road capability over on-road agility. Compared to the standard G-Class models with smaller engines, the G 55 offers a significantly more effortless driving experience, particularly when accelerating or climbing hills. The increased power and torque also make towing considerably easier.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 55 AMG came standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its premium positioning. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, wood trim, and heated front seats. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable seats. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and various customization options through AMG’s design studio. The exterior featured AMG-specific body styling, including unique bumpers, side skirts, and alloy wheels.
Chassis & Braking
The G 55 AMG retains the G-Class’s traditional ladder-frame chassis, renowned for its strength and durability. The suspension consists of rigid axles with coil springs and shock absorbers, providing substantial wheel travel for off-road use. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). While effective, the braking system isn’t as sophisticated as those found in contemporary performance SUVs. The G 55’s tires are 265/60 R18, chosen to balance on-road comfort and off-road traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 55 AMG was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its unique combination of luxury, performance, and off-road capability. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy (14.5 US mpg combined) were often noted. Compared to other high-performance SUVs of the era, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the G 55 offered a more rugged and utilitarian character. The G 55’s reliability was generally good, benefiting from the M113 engine’s robust design. However, maintenance costs could be high due to the vehicle’s complexity and the cost of AMG-specific parts.
Legacy
The G 55 AMG has become a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts. Its rarity, iconic design, and robust powertrain contribute to its enduring appeal. The M113 engine, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues such as oil leaks and cooling system problems. The G 55 AMG represents a significant chapter in the G-Class’s history, showcasing AMG’s ability to transform a utilitarian off-roader into a luxurious and high-performance SUV.
