Used car buying guide: Mercedes-Benz G-Class W463

Not only is it hugely practical, with room enough for four adults and all their clutter, but features like side steps, wheels of at least 20in, chunky indicator repeaters on the front wings, a boot-mounted spare wheel and a boot that opens like a portal give the W463-generation Mercedes G-Class all the heavy-knit SUV essentials to make its owner feel bigger than other traffic. It is, in fact, taller than the Range Rover, Porsche Cayenne and Toyota Land Cruiser, and by some margin. 

Inside, its perceived material quality gives it an air of luxury on a par with rivals. As with many Mercedes of this era, the visual drama of the interior is lacking, but the controls have a chunky, hard-wearing feel and lots of period features, like buttons. Remember those?

Sometimes, however, there are glaring chinks in its armour. The way it drives doesn’t quite match the standards of its powertrain, with ride quality and handling not up to the standards you might expect from a Mercedes. 

Its steering is heavy and not the most accurate, while body lean through the bends makes you feel like you’re in a cot. If you want an AMG, super unleaded is recommended so be sure that you can afford to buy it all over again in 99 RON. It’s also very expensive to maintain a W463, with servicing and repair costs all being steep. 

If you can stomach all those considerable costs, though, you will have yourself a true icon. The W463 is a luxury off-roader with four decades of burgeoning appeal that makes it worthy of your attention. Whether you buy one as a driver’s car, a collector’s item or a status symbol, it will turn heads and wow enthusiasts from Cardiff to Cairo. Just don’t expect it to make any financial sense.

What we said then

6 February 1991: “The G-Wagen hasn’t managed to convince many UK off-road buyers to opt for the three-pointed star, but certainly with a new permanent 4WD drivetrain, new 3.0-litre engines from the W124 saloon and anti-lock brakes, its specification stacks up. The equipment list, too, can now match a Range Rover, and the extra grip, balance and security that permanent 4WD provides makes it a much more convincing tool on the road.”

An owner’s view:

“It’s daunting to begin with, especially in one of the higher-powered versions like the AMGs. As soon as you touch the throttle, it pushes you into the back of your seat. But once you’re on the move, it’s genuinely comfortable. Even when manoeuvring around town or driving generally, it’s quite easy, despite how big and boxy it is.”

Buyer beware

Transmission: If you notice the car judder or shake while driving, this could be an indication that the propshaft is at the end of its life. Budget at least £1500 for a replacement. 

Suspension: As the coil springs carry significant weight on a car designed for on- and off-road use, they’re known to crack, particularly in cold weather. This is normally indicated by a loud thumping as you’re driving. Budget £120 per corner to set this right. 

Engine: On some models, the crankshaft sensor will need to be replaced at between 80,000 and 150,000 miles. This is indicated by very poor fuel economy and engine failure. 

Brakes: On such a heavy car, brake problems tend to occur quite early – at less than 60,000 miles in some cases. Ensure the brakes are in good condition. If not, replace them as soon as possible. 

Bodywork: Like all cars exposed to the elements, the G-Class can be prone to rusting. Be sure to check around the areas not often cleaned, such as the inside wheel arch and around the rear bumper. Extensive rusting could necessitate expensive repairs. 

Interior: A car with such rugged credentials needs to be hard-wearing, but don’t be surprised if pieces of trim and fabric have cried foul to the woes of muddy shoes. Worn seat covers can be re-trimmed easily enough, but if the headline is sagging, this could mean water has found its way in, calling for a pricey interior refit.