Highlights
- Rare W461 utility model with factory front differential lock
- Original German registration from new, never registered elsewhere
- Highly original, unmodified specification with OM602 5-cylinder diesel
- Comprehensive Mercedes-Benz dealer service history
- High factory specification and in good working order
- Will be sold with fresh TUV inspection
The Appeal
The original W461 G-Wagen was a remarkable achievement. Carefully engineered with the sort of dedication only Mercedes’ engineers seemed able to muster and virtually hand-built by Steyr-Puch, these high specification, very durable utilitarian vehicles are the workhorses of the world.
This Glacier White German-registered G290 features the OM602 five-cylinder engine and is a compelling mix of utility and luxury. The specification includes front locking diff, air conditioning, electric windows and comfortable seats. It has been regularly maintained by the Mercedes-Benz main dealers and was repainted in 2020 in the original colour.
Interest in W461s is understandably high. These are highly capable all-road vehicles with few peers. Presented in very good, original condition, this well-specified G290 has been properly looked after and carefully preserved. It will be sold with fresh TUV technical inspection.
The vendor says:
“Original-spec W461 G-Wagens have become exceptionally sought-after, particularly those with the OM602 engine, factory diff-lock, and unmodified interiors. Comparable 290 GD examples have recently sold for up to $77,777 on Bring a Trailer, depending on condition and originality.
“This example, unmodified, factory-spec, German-registered from new, with strong documentation, sits firmly at the collectable end of the market.
“A remarkably preserved and highly original 2000 Mercedes-Benz G 290 GD, still on its original German registration, never registered elsewhere, and retaining its factory specification, including front differential lock, air-conditioning, electric windows, comfort seating, and the indestructible OM602 diesel with automatic transmission.
“Supported by documented Mercedes-Benz dealer servicing, a superb interior, clean structure, and authentic utilitarian character, this G-Wagen represents one of the most honest and desirable W461 examples available today.
“A true Steyr-engineered G exactly as the legend was born.”
History and Paperwork
- First registered in Germany in November 2000
- Remained on its original German registration since new
- Built 30 Oct 2000
- Delivered 02 Nov 2000 via Mercedes-Benz Munich (company-owned outlet)
- Comprehensive service history with Mercedes-Benz dealer stamps, primarily from Munich
- Factory data card confirming original specification and build details
- German registration documents (Fahrzeugbrief) included
- Last recorded Mercedes-Benz dealer service was at 143,527 km in 2013
- Vehicle was repainted in Germany in 2020
- WDB4613361X123147 2
- Mileage: 168,126 km
- Will be sold with new technical inspection by TUV NORD Lietuva.
Date Mileage Service Type:
- 02.11.1999 14,352 km 15k km service
- 02.11.2000 49,000 km 45k km service
- 25.09.2001 79,735 km 90k km service
- 07.05.2002 105,679 km 120k km service
- 11.01.2003 117,322 km 135k km service
- 30.11.2009 115,322 km 165k km service
- 11.03.2013 143,527 km 180k km service
Factory Options:
- Front differential lock (A70)
- Air conditioning (580 / H02)
- Electric windows
- Comfort seats
- Tow pack
- Halogen fog lamps
- Rear wiper/washer
Factory Specification Highlights (Verified via the Mercedes-Benz data card):
- Drivetrain & Off-Road
- A70 – Front differential lock
- OM602 DE29 LA engine
- 722.331 automatic transmission
- Q58 – Front towing coupling
- Q53 – Low-mounted trailer hitch
- W461 military/utility-grade chassis specification
- 580 / H02 – Air-conditioning
- V50 – Electric front windows
- SB9 – Comfort front seats
- S37 / S38 – Driver & passenger armrests
- W83 – Rear wiper/washer
- X59 – Central locking system
- PD9 – Black fender flares for 225/235 tyres
- L16 – Halogen fog lamps
The vendor says:
“Engineered by Steyr-Puch and built for uncompromising reliability, the W461-series 290 GD represents the purest expression of the G-Wagen before luxury features reshaped the model’s identity. This 2000 example is a rare survivor: unmodified, highly original, and still carrying its factory German registration, retaining exactly the utilitarian character that made the early G-Class legendary.
“As a W461.336 utility model, this 290 GD sits directly in the lineage that Mercedes-Benz would later formalise as the G-Class Professional. With its simplified electrical architecture, mechanical driveline, factory differential lock, and durable interior materials, it embodies the functional engineering philosophy that defined the Professional series long before the name existed.
“This historical relevance has become even more pronounced with the launch of the 2025 “Stronger Than the 1980s” limited edition, Mercedes’ official homage to the classic utility G. While the 2025 model celebrates those roots through modern interpretation, this 2000 290 GD represents the actual period of the G-Wagen’s mid-series evolution, bridging the early military-derived models and today’s collector-focused tributes. For any G-Class enthusiast or collector, it is a particularly meaningful piece of the lineage: the authentic counterpart to the design philosophy Mercedes is now commemorating.
“Delivered new through Mercedes-Benz Munich, it retains the desirable OM602 five-cylinder diesel engine, the 722.331 automatic transmission, and a notably well-specified factory configuration including front differential lock, air-conditioning, electric windows, comfort seating, tow equipment, and halogen fog lamps. With straight bodywork, a superb tartan cloth interior, strong documentation, and an honest utilitarian pedigree, this 290 GD offers a level of originality that is increasingly hard to find among surviving W461s.”
The Condition
- Bodywork presents in straight, solid condition with no structural issues
- Repainted in 2020, including door shuts
- Front and rear bumpers and grille have been freshly powdercoated
- Hinges show only superficial staining from bolts with no structural corrosion
- Heavy-duty split-rim wheels appear in good condition
- Roof rack and black trim present well
- Tartan cloth upholstery appears in very good order for its age
- Dashboard, plastics and switchgear present well with minimal wear
- Rubber mats throughout are clean and tidy
- Luggage compartment appears to have seen minimal use
- Steering wheel shows light wear consistent with the vehicle’s age
- Vendor describes straight, solid bodywork with excellent structural presentation
- Structurally excellent with no sill corrosion or repairs required to floors and footwells we are told
- Fitted with cruise control
The Mechanics
- OM602 DE29 LA – 2.9L 5-cyl diesel engine (no. 602983 02 058687)
- Transmission: 722.331 4-speed automatic (No. 722331 04 394179)
- Front differential lock (factory option A70)
- Engine performs strongly with smooth idle we are told
- Automatic gearbox shifts cleanly through all gears reports seller
- Engine bay remains original and unmodified
- Current odometer reading shows 167,899 km
- OM602 engine performs strongly, smooth idle, excellent torque we are told
- Service history as detailed above
- All services performed at Mercedes-Benz dealers, primarily in Munich
