Auto Site Compares Jeep Wrangler vs. Mercedes G-Wagon... Here's what we think.

Auto Site Compares Jeep Wrangler vs Mercedes G Wagon and Here's What We Think

Everyone likes to bench race a little, so with this round, let's set the scene. In this corner, we have the ever powerful, the top of the line, offroad vehicle (oops, was that too bias?) Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. And in the other corner, we have the Mercedes G-Wagon. Raise your hand if you know what a G-Wagon is or looks like. Yeah, five hands. That's what I was thinking. Don't see too many of those around town do you? Autoomobile had some fun and compares the two vehicles in a mild title bout and being Jeep fans we couldn't help comment on this. From a technical standpoint, they both have the goods to deliver. The Rubion with it's 3.6 V6 engine (@ 285 HP), 4WD, and a top speed of ... yikes, 114 mph? The Mercedes G-Wagon comes in at 382 hp with it's 5.0/5.5 DOHC V8 engine. They offer you a seven speed automatic transmission (with Touch Shift manual style shifting). Both vehicles are known for their off road abilities. The G-Wagons have been around for decades and are know worldwide (much like a Jeep), but have only recently become available in the USA.  So from our point of view, they are somewhat "new". One reason to compare the two is they are also similar in design. The G-Wagon has solid axles front and rear. They still use a ladder type frame. (two reasons why they can take a beating, like a Jeep.) They've been used by the military and governments worldwide. Still, their civilian models are high luxury vehicles (something we never want a Jeep Wrangler to be), with Stability Control, Harman-Kardon audio systems, premium leather trim, pneumatic (air) bolsters for the seats. (I'm surprised it doesn't have an Espresso machine). Darn, I left my Grey Poupon mustard at home too... Since the vehicles come in at around $ 115,000 to $ 140,000, I'm not sure that's as appealing as a Jeep. Not to mention the boxy design. That kind of cash will certainly buy a couple of Jeeps Wranglers and a whole lot of cool 4x4 parts and accessories from XT ! Clear winner? The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. The Rubicon  includes features like the Rock-Trac 4WD system with a 4:1 low-gear ratio, Dana 44 front axle and electronic sway bar disconnect, and a true 6-speed manual transmission. Heading out for no-man's land? We're going in a Jeep Rubicon. (seriously, did you think it would be anything else?) How many Jeeps and parts would you buy for $ 140,000 ?