Throwback vibes: G-Wagen goes retro with ‘STRONGER THAN THE 1980s’ edition

Mercedes-Benz has taken a trip down memory lane with a limited-edition G-Class that’s all about celebrating the 1980s – and doing it in proper style. Dubbed the G-Class Edition STRONGER THAN THE 1980s, this special model is capped at just 460 units globally, making it one for collectors and diehard G fans alike.

The idea came after Mercedes hit the half-million milestone for the G-Class last year. To mark the occasion, they’ve gone full nostalgia mode, channelling the original 280 GE with some seriously retro flavour — but don’t worry, it still comes packed with modern luxury and tech under the skin.

Retro looks, modern muscle

Buyers can choose between the G 450 d or G 500, both featuring throwback paint jobs straight out of the ‘80s garage: MANUFAKTUR agave green or Colorado beige. Think earthy tones, orange indicators, and black bumpers and arches — just like your favourite childhood Matchbox model.

It even gets classic 5-spoke alloys, an old-school Mercedes-Benz bonnet star, and a rear badge that looks like it was peeled off a well-loved W460. And yes, the spare wheel cover has its own bespoke treatment too.

Built to go bush (or at least look like it)

To keep things rugged, it comes fitted with goodies from the PROFESSIONAL Line Exterior — we’re talking all-terrain tyres, protective headlight grilles, and beefy mud flaps. There’s even an optional roof rack if you want to really play the off-road adventurer role.

And in case you forget how cool your G is, the side mirror projects “G – STRONGER THAN TIME” on the ground when you hop in.

Inside, it’s pure ‘80s chic (with surround sound)

The cabin dials up the retro with dove grey cloth seat inserts and a “STRONGER THAN THE 1980s” badge across the passenger grab handle. Add a topographical map of Austria’s Schöckl mountain on the door sills — the G’s legendary testing ground — and a badge on the B-pillar showing a classic G-Wagen silhouette, and it’s nostalgia all the way.

Of course, this is still a Benz, so it’s not short on creature comforts. A Burmester® 3D sound system, glass sunroof, and Nappa leather steering wheel keep things properly plush.

Coming soon (to someone richer than you)

With only 460 being made and prices kicking off at around £152,815 in the UK, this is one of those models that’ll probably go straight from showroom to private garage — or collector’s vault.

No word yet if any are destined for New Zealand, but here’s hoping at least one makes it our way for a quick bush bash… or more likely, a valet-only carpark.