(from DaimlerChrysler Press Release)
Geneva, Mar 02, 2004 - It's now exactly 25 years since the Mercedes-Benz
G-Class made its first public appearance. Since then, these models have
made a name for themselves all over the world and have been sold to over
182,000 customers. The supercharged V8 G 55 AMG, the latest high point
in the career of this one-of-a-kind classic, is now on display in
Geneva. The eight-cylinder power plant of this new addition to the
G-model family develops 350 kW/476 hp and peak torque of 700 Newton
metres, giving this robust off-roader new dimensions in power and
assurance. Offering 34 per cent more power and 32 per cent more torque
than the predecessor naturally aspirated V8 model, the new G 55 AMG
demonstrates once again that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a vehicle with
enormous potential.
With two diesel
and three petrol units, the G-model offers easily the largest engine
line-up of any off-road model. Extending from the 115 kW/156 hp G 270
CDI through the V8 turbodiesel G 400 CDI to the new G 55 AMG, the model
range caters for a complete spectrum of customer requirements. The new
AMG model is available as a five-door long-wheelbase station wagon and
will enter the Mercedes-Benz showrooms in June 2004.
The state-of-the-art supercharged V8, already familiar from other AMG
performance models, was voted "Best Performance Engine" in the
"International Engine Awards 2003". Its acceleration allows the G 55 AMG
to leave many sports cars trailing, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.6
seconds, while 200 km/h comes up in just 23.0 seconds. Top speed is
electronically limited to 210 km/h. Whether on or off the road, the G 55
AMG has ample power in reserve, treating its passengers to unrivalled
superior-ity, exclusiveness and performance.
Before the supercharged AMG engine was fitted in the G-Class, numerous
modifications and new developments were necessary in the area of the
powertrain, chassis and brake system. A new oil sump provides reliable
lubrication in all operating situations, while boost air temperature is
reduced by an engine-mounted air-to-water intercooler and two
front-mounted low-temperature coolers. A more powerful electric suction
fan keeps the coolant temperature in the correct range at all times.
A new-design, larger-diameter AMG sports exhaust system with
high-performance catalytic converter technology reduces exhaust back
pressure and ensures compliance with the EU4 emissions standards. Visual
and audible confirmation of the G 55 AMG's potency is provided by the
two oval twin-tailpipes which emerge at an angle in front of the rear
wheels and by the typical throaty AMG V8 engine sound.
New AMG chassis tuning
and high-performance brake system
The increased performance required a
complete redesign of the chassis and brake system. Higher-rate springs
at the front axle in combination with retuned gas-pressure shock
absorbers front and rear make for a high level of agility combined with
typical Mercedes-Benz long-distance ride comfort. This goes hand in hand
with the superior allterrain talents which are a trademark of all the
G-models. These capabilities are provided by extensive specification
which includes low-range drive ratios, three driver-selectable 100%
full-locking differentials and the acclaimed high-performance active
safety systems Electronic Stability Program ESP, 4-ETS Electronic
Traction System and Brake Assist. All these systems have been matched
specifically to the increased power and torque of the new model.
The newly developed high-performance brake system with large, vented
brake discs front and rear can be finely controlled. It offers powerful
deceleration and impressive fade resistance.
Extensive standard
specification with striking highlights
Even to the casual observer, there are
many pointers to the strength and power of the G 55 AMG. The
characteristic AMG-styled five-spoke alloy wheels with brightly machined
deep dish rims carrying wide-base 285/55 R 18 tyres, eye-catching body-coloured
flared wheel arches, stainless steel side steps, brushed aluminium trim
strips, a silver-painted radiator grille and "V8 KOMPRESSOR" lettering
on the sides of the vehicle all help this model stand out from the
crowd.
A sporty and exclusive interior with many luxurious touches greets
passengers entering the G 55 AMG. First the eye takes in the four
stainless steel door sills with illuminated blue AMG logo, closely
followed by the finest-quality designo leather upholstery on the door
centre panels and on all seats. From the front seats, with electric
adjustment and memory function, the driver and front passenger can feast
their eyes on the high-quality designo wood dashboard trim and the
instrument cluster with "V8 KOMPRESSOR" lettering, red needles and 260
km/h speedometer scale. The lavish standard specification of the G 55
AMG also includes the THERMATIC automatic climate control and the COMAND
APS control and display system with navigation function.
