1984 MERCEDES-BENZ 230 GE SWB

This Mercedes-Benz 230 GE SWB is a smart example of the timeless ‘Geländewagen’ all-terrain vehicle, presented in good condition and with a desirable specification. Under the bonnet sits a 2.3-litre inline-four petrol engine producing around 125bhp and 142lb-ft of torque, coupled with the rare five-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 82,764 miles from new.

First registered in February 1984, this UK-market 230 GE was in single family ownership until earlier this year, when the current keeper purchased it.

The bodywork of this 230 GE SWB presents in good order, and to the best of the vendor's knowledge, has never sustained any serious damage. The silver paintwork is believed to be original and presents well for its age, with small patches of bubbling in the finish, and minor stone chips that you would expect from road use. The vehicle rides on a set of 15-inch five-arm alloy wheels, which are in good order on all four corners, while there is also a full-size spare mounted on the rear door.

Moving inside, the seats are trimmed with a grey checkered cloth, which continues through the door cards. There is a small tear on the driver’s seat side bolster, and some general minor wear and discolouration elsewhere, but overall it still looks smart for 36-year-old upholstery. The black dashboard trim is sound, and while the vendor reports the fuel gauge is known to flicker occasionally, the rest of the switchgear is in good working order. An immobiliser and an aftermarket Pioneer stereo with Bluetooth have been installed – at a cost of around £2,500 – but the cabin otherwise remains period-correct.

The last scheduled maintenance was undertaken in October 2019 at around 81,000 miles, which comprised a full service and mechanical overhaul at Borough Green Garage in Kent. The engine oil, oil filter, fuel filter and air filter were renewed, and the car was also fitted with a new electric fuel pump. The front exhaust section and clamps were replaced, along with a new power steering belt and a gearbox speedo cable. New tyres were also fitted and the wheels balanced.

The most recent MOT test was on 16 May 2020 at 81,705 miles, which resulted in a pass with two advisories to monitor slight corrosion on the nearside front inner sill, as well as a minor exhaust leak in the joint over the rear axle. The wheels come wrapped with BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A tyres, which are in good order.

Accompanying the vehicle are the original service book, owner's manual and some old G-Wagen enthusiast magazines. The last four years of MOT certificates are also present.

This Mercedes-Benz 230 GE is a capable and stylish SUV, presented in sound mechanical condition and with a solid history. While the next owner may choose to tidy up some of the paintwork, this rugged 4x4 is eminently usable as-is, and features the rare manual transmission. If you have been seeking a well-maintained G-Wagen to drive as intended, this example should prove to be an enjoyable and reliable all-season companion – both on and off road.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.