The Mercedes-Benz G 500 V8 (4MATIC Automatic), produced from February 2000 to March 2007, represents a significant iteration of the iconic G-Class (W463) following its 1999 facelift. This model occupied a premium position within the G-Class lineup, offering a substantial increase in performance and luxury compared to the base models. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, solidifying the G-Class’s reputation as a capable luxury off-roader. The W463 facelift brought modernized styling, improved interior appointments, and enhanced safety features while retaining the G-Class’s legendary off-road prowess. This variant specifically catered to buyers seeking a powerful and refined off-road experience without sacrificing everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class (W463, facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | G 500 V8 (296 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2000 |
| End of production | March, 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 22.1 l/100 km (10.6 US mpg, 12.8 UK mpg, 4.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 16.7 l/100 km (14.1 US mpg, 16.9 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 400 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 190.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 296 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 456 Nm @ 2800-4000 rpm (336.33 lb.-ft. @ 2800-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.962 |
| Engine displacement | 4966 cm3 (303.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2007 mm (79.02 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 | 36° |
| Departure angle | 27° |
| 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 G 500 V8 was powered by Mercedes-Benz’s M113.962 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes’ performance lineup at the time, featured a three-valve-per-cylinder (three intake, two exhaust) SOHC design and multi-port fuel injection. The M113 engine family was known for its robust construction and smooth power delivery. The 5.0L V8 produced 296 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 456 Nm (336 lb-ft) of torque between 2800 and 4000 rpm. This power was channeled through a five-speed automatic transmission (typically the 722.6) to all four wheels via Mercedes’ 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system. The 4MATIC system utilized a single-speed transfer case and a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing excellent traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The G 500 V8 offered a unique driving experience. While capable of impressive off-road performance thanks to its robust drivetrain and ample ground clearance, it also provided a level of on-road refinement not typically associated with traditional off-road vehicles. The V8 engine delivered strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 118 mph. The automatic transmission, while not as quick-shifting as modern units, provided smooth and predictable gear changes. The G-Class’s boxy shape and relatively high center of gravity resulted in noticeable body roll during cornering, but the powerful engine and all-wheel-drive system inspired confidence. Compared to the smaller, less powerful G 320, the G 500 V8 offered a significantly more engaging and effortless driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 500 V8 came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard equipment typically included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, and a high-end audio system. Optional extras included sunroof, upgraded leather, wood trim, and various off-road packages with features like locking differentials and skid plates. The interior design, while functional, was relatively understated compared to other luxury SUVs of the era, emphasizing durability and practicality over ostentatious displays.
Chassis & Braking
The G-Class’s chassis was a body-on-frame construction, utilizing a ladder frame for exceptional strength and durability. The suspension consisted of coil springs and rigid axles front and rear, providing substantial wheel articulation for off-road capability. The G 500 V8 featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for its weight and performance. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The steering system was a recirculating ball system, offering a direct but somewhat heavy feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 500 V8 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its combination of luxury, performance, and off-road capability. However, its high price and relatively poor fuel economy (around 14.1 US mpg combined) were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to other V8-powered SUVs of the time, such as the Range Rover, the G 500 V8 offered a more rugged and utilitarian character. The G 500 V8’s fuel consumption was significantly higher than the G 320’s, but it offered a substantial performance advantage. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be high due to the complexity of the V8 engine and the specialized nature of the vehicle.
Legacy
The G 500 V8 (W463 facelift) remains a highly sought-after vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts. Its robust construction, powerful engine, and iconic design have ensured its enduring appeal. While maintenance can be expensive, the M113 V8 engine is generally considered reliable when properly maintained. Today, well-maintained examples command premium prices in the used car market, reflecting the G-Class’s status as a modern classic. The W463 generation, and particularly the V8 models, laid the foundation for the G-Class’s continued success and cemented its position as a symbol of luxury and capability.
