Mercedes-Benz is taking a nostalgic detour back to where it all began. The company is paying homage to the roots of its legendary off-roader with the all-new G 550 Stronger Than the 1980s Edition. Yea, that’s the full name. And it’s a mouthful. Blending retro style with modern muscle, this exclusive special edition taps deep into the spirit of the original W 460 G-Wagen.
Built for the diehard off-road crowd and collectors alike, only 460 (get it, 460, in honor of the W 460 G-Wagen) of these will vintage-vibe Wagens be produced globally. This limited run will make the Stronger Than The 1980s edition one of the most exclusive G-Class models produced to date.
Vintage G-Class Looks, Modern Off-Road Grit
At its core, the Stronger Than The 1980s edition is a fully modern 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 550. It is then outfit with head-turning vintage elements that give serious nods to the OG G. Buyers will get to choose from three throwback color options straight from the early days of the G-Class. These include Agave Green, Cream, and Colorado Beige.
Step inside and you’re greeted by a refined mix of nostalgia and luxury. The black leather seats feature Dove Grey fabric inserts inspired by the original 280 GE, and the front grab handle proudly wears “STRONGER THAN THE 1980s” branding. Other subtle throwbacks include classic-style badging, door sills etched with the topography of Austria’s Schöckl mountain (where G-Wagens are tested), and a heritage-style “Schöckl Proved” badge at the B-pillar. And just to drive home the exclusivity each unit sports a “1 of 460” badge on the center console—because bragging rights are part of the package.
All models come kitted with amber signal lights up front, a direct visual throwback to the ‘80s, alongside matte black body trim. There’s also a brush guard, mud flaps, and old-school silver 5-spoke alloy wheels. On the hood is the classic Mercedes-Benz star rocking a blue laurel wreath badge. A vintage spare tire cover ties the whole look together.
Off-Road-Ready, Straight From The Factory
This isn’t just a cosmetic flashback, either. The Stronger Than The 1980s edition backs up its swagger with legit off-road gear. It includes gear from the company’s Professional Line of accessories including chunky all-terrain tires, sturdy mud flaps, and on Agave Green models, a factory roof rack made for hauling gear into the wild. There’s even a “G – STRONGER THAN TIME” light projection under the mirrors to remind you this rig’s made to last.
Under the old-school persona is a fully loaded G 550. Standard equipment includes the Burmester 3D audio system and a sunroof. There are few available options, however, a included in the list are the large roof rack with rear step ladder that’s available in the U.S. on regular G-Class models as part of the $14,300 G Professional Package. Pricing has yet to be announced of the U.S., but Mercedes-Benz says that the 1980s Edition G-Class will retail for about 19-percent more than the base G 550. Which suggests a base sticker price of about $176,000 when the retro G-Wagen lands on our shore later in 2025.