2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Body style(s):
4-door sport-utility vehicle

Trim levels:
G500
G55 AMG
MSRP:
$73,600
$89,900

Notes: For its second season in the American market, the G-Class portfolio was augmented by the addition of the G55 AMG. Powered by the handbuilt 5.4L AMG engine (in its naturally-aspirated form), the G55 was distinguishable by its more domineering front fascia, as well as larger tires and side exhaust. In this rare case, the larger engine actually improved fuel economy, as its greater power offset the truck's massive bulk. A rear obstacle detection system became optional this year for the nearly 25-year-old SUV. Although an impressive toy with enviable off-road traits, the G-wagen was utterly impractical for everyday use, mostly because of its rather dated design.

Series: 2002-2005

DESIGN

Layout:

Seats:

Engine(s):
longitudinal front-engine, full-time 4-wheel drive w/ 2-speed transfer case
steel body on ladder-frame
5

5.0L 24-valve sohc SFI V8 [G500]
Bore x stroke: 97.0x84.0mm
Compression ratio: 10.0 to 1 (91-octane unleaded)
Horsepower (SAE net): 292bhp@5500rpm
Torque (SAE net): 336lb-ft@2800rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manumatic (f.d. ratio 4.38:1)
Differential: locking front, locking center, locking rear
Transfer-case gearing: 0.87 to 1, 2.16 to 1 low-range
EPA fuel economy (city/hwy, 1985 test): 13/14mpg
5.4L 24-valve sohc SFI V8 [G55]
Bore x stroke: 97.0x92.0mm
Compression ratio: 10.5 to 1 (91-octane unleaded)
Horsepower (SAE net): 349bhp@5500rpm
Torque (SAE net): 387lb-ft@3000rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manumatic (f.d. ratio 4.37:1)
Differential: locking front, locking center, locking rear
Transfer-case gearing: 0.87 to 1, 2.16 to 1 low-range
EPA fuel economy (city/hwy, 1985 test): 14/15mpg

DIMENSIONS

EPA Class:
Wheelbase:
Length:
Width:
Height:
Track, F:
Track, R:
Clearance:
FULL-SIZE SUV
112.2"
185.6"
71.3"
77.8"
59.6"
59.6"
8.3"
Curb weight: 5423lbs.
Interior volume:
Cargo volume:
Fuel tank:
69/52 cu ft. (f/r)
45.2-79.5 cu ft. (rear seats up/down)
25.4 gal.

TECHNICAL

Tires:
Suspension
(f/r):
Brakes (f/r):
Steering:
Active sys.:
Airbags:
265/60-18, 285/55-18 (G55)
live: rigid axle, dual links, coil springs, tube shocks, ARB
live: rigid axle, dual links, coil springs, tube shocks
disc/disc, ABS & brake assist (12.3" vented/10.7" solid)
recirculating-ball, power-assisted, 3.5 turns-to-lock
traction control (std.), yaw control (std.)
dual front

PERFORMANCE

Acceleration (zero to 60 mph):
Braking (60 to zero mph):
Roadholding (skidpad):
Slalom speed (100' intervals):
Turning circle:
Towing:
GVWR:
Approach/departure angles:
7.5sec. (G500, source: MT)


54.6mph (source: MT)
43.5ft.
7000lbs.
6834lbs. (G500)
36.0° / 27.0°


SEE ALSO: none
COMPETITORS: Hummer H1, Land Rover Range Rover, Lexus LX 470

2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 sport/utility
Mercedes-Benz G-Class sport-utility vehicle.

2003 Mercedes-Benz G55 sport/utility
Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG sport-utility vehicle.


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