Legacy Overland’s Mercedes G-Wagen ‘Wolf’ Leaves German Army, Hangs Out At The Beach

You can’t really go wrong with a Mercedes-Benz G-Class as a weekend tool for exploring the great outdoors and that’s why the German off-roader is one of the most popular choices for restomod treatments.

Legacy Overland specializes in this sort of thing and for its latest project, the Connecticut-based aftermarket company decided to breathe new life into an ex-German army G-Wagen.

Commonly known as the ‘Wolf’ G-Wagen, the military W461.4 model type is powered by one of the most reliable engines ever made, the 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder OM602 diesel. It’s mated to a five-speed manual transmission featuring a first low “half gear” to pull the vehicle out of tough spots and four normal gears. A two speed transfer case as well as front and rear manually lockable differentials are also part of the package and make the Wolf ready to tackle almost anything mother nature might throw at it.

Starting from this solid base, Legacy Overland gave the drivetrain a new lease on life by rebuilding the engine and the Bosch mechanical indirect fuel pump, as well as the main gearbox and transfer case. The firm also rebuilt the suspension and added Bilstein shocks; while at it, Legacy Overland galvanized all brackets, bolts, nuts, and supports.

The tuner then went on to upgrade the ‘Wolf’ G-Wagen to make it usable for civilian use as a modern day ride. On the outside, you’ll notice stuff like the custom boxwood green glossy paint job reminiscent of the G-Wagen’s military past, black bull bar, LED headlamps and front auxiliary lamps, white indicator front wing lamps, LED taillights, and front wing lamp grille guards.

Other upgrades include a Canadian military-style snorkel, jerry can in vehicle color, black mohair soft top and bikini top with footman straps, as well as 7×16-inch steel wheels shod with 265/75 R16 Cooper Adventurer STT Pro tires.

Significant changes have been made to the interior as well, starting with the distressed full grain brandy-colored leather with black leather accents and cream stitching. The upholstery covers the front seats and rear sideways foldable benches with lap belts, and is complemented by custom leather dressed cup holder tray and black fiber floor mats.

The instrument cluster and gauges are rebuilt, with Legacy Overland also adding modern amenities like a custom made air conditioning system integrated into the dashboard, Bluetooth enabled Pioneer MVH-S310BT sound system with four speakers, and Dynamat sound insulation applied under the carpet.