The Mercedes-Benz G 300 D 4MATIC Automatic, produced between September 1993 and July 1994, represents a significant iteration of the iconic G-class (W463) series. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the G-class lineup during its brief production run, this variant combined a robust diesel engine with the convenience of an automatic transmission and the capability of Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. It was designed to offer a balance between off-road prowess and on-road usability, appealing to buyers who desired the G-class’s legendary durability without the higher price tag of the more powerful gasoline models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | G-class (W463) |
| Type | G 300 D (113 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 | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 141 km/h (87.61 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 37.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 191 Nm @ 2700-2900 rpm (140.87 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 603.931 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2620 kg (5776.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 4185 mm (164.76 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1908 mm (75.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 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 G 300 D was powered by the OM 603.931, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings during the early to mid-1990s, known for its durability and relatively simple design. It utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system where fuel is partially combusted in a small chamber before entering the main cylinder, promoting more complete combustion and reducing noise. The engine produced 113 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 191 Nm (140.87 lb-ft) of torque between 2700 and 2900 rpm. The torque curve was relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide range of engine speeds. The engine’s single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain was a straightforward design, contributing to its reliability. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while not the most modern unit, was robust and well-suited to the engine’s characteristics. It provided smooth shifts, although it wasn’t particularly quick or efficient by contemporary standards.
Driving Characteristics
The G 300 D Automatic offered a unique driving experience. While not a performance vehicle, the diesel engine’s torque provided adequate power for both on-road cruising and off-road adventures. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did detract somewhat from the engine’s responsiveness. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the G 300 D, the automatic felt slightly slower and less engaging. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and low-speed off-road crawling rather than outright acceleration. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in a variety of conditions, making the G 300 D a capable off-roader. However, the vehicle’s high center of gravity and relatively soft suspension meant that it wasn’t particularly nimble on paved roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 300 D Automatic typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its positioning as a workhorse vehicle. Standard features included power steering, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was available as an option. The dashboard layout was functional and utilitarian, with large, easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras included air conditioning, power windows, and a sunroof. The G-class, even in its base form, offered a level of build quality and refinement that was uncommon in off-road vehicles of the time.
Chassis & Braking
The G-class chassis was a body-on-frame construction, providing exceptional strength and durability. The front suspension utilized coil springs and a rigid axle with trailing arms, while the rear suspension also featured a rigid axle with trailing arms and coil springs. This suspension setup was designed to provide a comfortable ride on rough terrain, but it wasn’t particularly sophisticated by modern standards. The brakes were disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, improving braking performance and stability. The steering was a recirculating ball system, providing a direct and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G 300 D Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its robust construction, off-road capability, and fuel efficiency. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission detracted from the engine’s responsiveness and that the vehicle’s on-road handling was somewhat clumsy. Compared to the higher-output G 320 and G 360 models, the G 300 D offered a more affordable entry point into the G-class lineup. It also provided better fuel economy than the gasoline-powered models. Compared to the G 300 TD with a manual transmission, the automatic version offered greater convenience but slightly reduced performance.
Legacy
The G 300 D Automatic, despite its short production run, has become a sought-after vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts. The OM 603 engine is known for its longevity and relatively simple maintenance requirements. While finding parts can sometimes be challenging, the engine is generally considered to be very reliable. The G-class’s iconic design and legendary off-road capability have ensured its enduring popularity. Today, well-maintained examples of the G 300 D Automatic command a premium price in the used car market, reflecting their rarity and desirability. The vehicle represents a unique blend of ruggedness, reliability, and classic Mercedes-Benz engineering.
