The Mercedes-Benz G 500 V8 BA3 Final Edition, produced from 2011 to 2012, represents a high-performance iteration of the iconic G-Class (W463) following the 2008 facelift. Positioned as a premium offering within the W463 range, this variant served as a powerful and luxurious send-off to a significant era of the G-Wagen before further modernization. It combined a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission and the renowned 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, catering to buyers seeking both on-road refinement and formidable off-road capability. The “Final Edition” designation signified its limited production run and enhanced exclusivity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class (W463, facelift 2008) |
| Type | G 500 V8 BA3 Final Edition (388 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 20 l/100 km (11.8 US mpg, 14.1 UK mpg, 5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg, 19 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 348 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 388 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 2800-4800 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 273.963 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt, 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2285 kg (5037.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2850 kg (6283.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk space (min) | 250 l (8.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk space (max) | 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 (braked) | 2850 kg (6283.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 115 kg (253.53 lbs.) |
| Length | 4212 mm (165.83 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Width (with 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 track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Front overhang | 783 mm (30.83 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 820 mm (32.28 in.) |
| Ride height | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 36° |
| Departure angle | 27° |
| Ramp-over angle | 23° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tire size | 265/80 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the G 500 V8 BA3 Final Edition is the M 273.963 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a staple of Mercedes-Benz performance models during the period, features a three-valve per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust) DOHC valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. The engine produces 388 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 530 Nm (390.91 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2800 and 4800 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and robust construction were designed for both high performance and durability. Paired with the engine is the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, known for its smooth shifts and efficiency, features a torque converter lock-up clutch to minimize slippage and improve fuel economy. The 7G-TRONIC’s gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and cruising, providing a balance between performance and comfort.
Driving Characteristics
The G 500 V8 BA3 Final Edition delivers a distinctive driving experience. The substantial torque output of the V8 engine provides strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.6 seconds. While not a sports car, the G-Class’s weight (2285 kg / 5037.56 lbs) is noticeable, but the engine’s power mitigates this. The 7G-TRONIC transmission contributes to a refined driving experience, offering smooth and timely gear changes. Compared to the G 320 CDI diesel variant, the G 500 offers significantly more power and a more responsive throttle. However, it sacrifices fuel economy. The G 500 also differs from lower-spec models like the G 300, which had smaller engines and less sophisticated transmissions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “Final Edition” designation brought with it a number of exclusive features and upgrades. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a premium audio system. The interior trim featured unique badging and special materials to denote its limited-edition status. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded navigation system, and various exterior styling enhancements. The G 500 Final Edition was positioned as a luxury off-roader, offering a high level of comfort and refinement alongside its impressive capabilities.
Chassis & Braking
The G 500 V8 BA3 Final Edition utilizes a robust ladder-frame chassis, a hallmark of the G-Class design. This construction provides exceptional strength and rigidity, essential for off-road performance. The suspension consists of coil springs and rigid axles front and rear, offering a comfortable ride both on and off-road. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The G-Class’s high ground clearance (205 mm / 8.07 in.) and impressive approach, departure, and ramp-over angles contribute to its exceptional off-road prowess.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 500 V8 BA3 Final Edition was well-received by automotive critics and enthusiasts alike. It was praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and iconic design. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy were noted drawbacks. Compared to other high-performance SUVs of the time, the G 500 offered a unique combination of luxury, capability, and heritage. Its off-road abilities set it apart from more road-focused competitors. The G 500’s fuel consumption (14.9 l/100 km combined) was significantly higher than that of the diesel-powered G 320 CDI, but the V8 offered a more engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The M 273 V8 engine, while generally reliable, can require maintenance on components like the valve cover gaskets and oil cooler lines as it ages. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is also known for its durability, but regular fluid changes are crucial for long-term reliability. Today, the G 500 V8 BA3 Final Edition is a sought-after collector’s item, commanding premium prices in the used car market. Its limited production run and iconic status contribute to its desirability. The vehicle represents a unique chapter in the G-Class’s history, bridging the gap between its utilitarian origins and its modern luxury status.
