Between 1980 and 1991, Mercedes-Benz produced a special version of the 240GD – the original Gelandewagen or G-Wagen – for the Singapore army. This special model was lightened and also strengthened to be airdrop-ready from aircraft. It had a folding front windscreen glass, no solid doors or side windows and a soft top instead of a hard roof. The chassis was also engineered to military specifications.
Only 60 – 70 units were ever produced so this is a very rare G-Wagen that collectors would want to own. Ten units will be available for purchase from Arcade Cars, a British company which specialises in restoring and re-engineering G-Wagens. Following a highly successful Monterey Car Week in California, which generated significant collector interest, the 240 GD showcases Arcade’s restoration expertise.
Each vehicle will retains its military features while incorporating personalized luxury features for individual customers. Arcade Cars’ expertise makes it a serious contender in the high-end restoration market and it has already gained a reputation for producing authentic military-spec vehicles that combine rugged capability with luxury enhancements.
The 240 GD represents Arcade Cars’ most ambitious restoration, transforming battle-hardened military vehicles through a meticulous 6-phase process that can take hundreds of hours per car. Master artisans fully disassemble each vehicle, documenting every component to ensure authenticity during re-assembly.
The chassis undergoes extensive metalwork to repair decades of military wear, while paint specialists apply anti-corrosive treatments and premium finishes in climate-controlled facilities.
In the interior workshop, the military cabin is reimagined as a luxury environment, with options ranging from luxury automotive grade leather to adventure-ready synthetics, premium audio systems, and bespoke sports and overlanding equipment solutions.
Working with former AMG race engineers, Arcade Cars ensures every vehicle meets the highest standards of performance, craftsmanship, and German TUV certification. Each restoration preserves the vehicle’s original military engineering while integrating modern technology to maintain the authentic G-Wagen driving experience collectors seek.
Arcade Cars doesn’t say how much each of the 10 vehicles will cost and it will vary depending on customer requirements.
Mercedes-Benz G580 also available in 1:64 scale from Matchbox
