Expedition Motor Company Built a 430HP G-Wagen Wolf with Authentic German Military Camo

As former Benz mechanics, we’ve always had a deep appreciation for the G-Wagen. And while many of you may know it as unofficial car of every valet line here in Los Angeles; once upon a time, it was actually a purely utilitarian vehicle. It was a stripped-down military tool built for the German Bundeswehr. We’re talking fold-down windshields, turret mounts, ammo boxes, and an 84-horsepower diesel engine that prioritized “will it start in a warzone” over everything else.

The 250GD “Wolf” (named after a Bundeswehr competition to designate their new light utility vehicle) is that truck, and New Jersey-based Expedition Motor Company has been quietly building some of the best restorations of these things for years. Their latest one-of-one commission, the camo-clad 620GE, might be one of our favorites to date.

An American Heart in a German Shell

While the camo might look the major talking point, the biggest transformation here is actually under the hood. EMC ditched the original OM602 diesel (a legendary million-mile engine, but let’s be real, 84 horsepower doesn’t cut it anymore) in favor of a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 pumping out 430 horsepower.

That swap alone adds $55,000 to the build cost, which gives you some idea of the engineering required to stuff a modern V8 into a vintage W461 chassis. Paired with a 6L80 six-speed automatic and a Fox Reservoir suspension system, it’s just a fundamentally different driving experience. EMC also offers two turbodiesel options (225 HP for $25K or 275 HP for $35K) for purists who want to keep things oil-burning, and yes, you can opt for a manual transmission if the automatic isn’t your thing.

Camouflage, the Old-Fashioned Way

Okay, so let’s talk about that camouflage exterior for a second – as there’s a bit more to it than you might imagine. EMC conducted an extensive design study of unrestored military examples to nail the camouflage pattern, and here’s the interesting detail: original Bundeswehr Wolves had their camo applied by soldiers in the field, not on a factory line. That means no two trucks looked exactly alike.

Using original green, brown, and black paint codes, EMC recreated that organic, slightly imperfect quality rather than going for a clean, uniform pattern. It’s a small distinction that makes a big difference, and it’s the kind of obsessive attention to provenance that separates a proper restoration from a weekend rattle-can job.

Tactical Roots, Luxury Touches

The cabin walks a fine line between military heritage and modern comfort. The seats are finished in Sweetgrass upholstery with contrasting Port stitching, complemented by gray-stained AAA European Oak trim. It’s a warmer, more curated space than you’d expect given the exterior, but EMC has kept the layout simple and function-first.

Modern additions like A/C, heated seats, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a Harman sound system are integrated without cluttering the dashboard, and the analog gauges and 4WD indicator lights remain front and center. The rear still accommodates the iconic inward-facing jump seats, and the convertible top (with three roof options including a Tan Bikini Top) means this thing is begging to be driven open-air.

Spec Sheet

Pricing & Availability

EMC restorations start at a base price of $185,000, but a fully loaded build like this camo Wolf with the LS3 V8 and all the trimmings lands closer to $275,000. Each build is bespoke, so head over to Expedition Motor Company’s website to spec your own.

Recap

Expedition Motor Company 620GE Wolf

Expedition Motor Company drops a one-of-one, LS3-powered restomod of the military-spec Mercedes-Benz 250GD Wolf, complete with field-accurate Bundeswehr camouflage and a 430HP V8, starting at $185K.

Learn More: Expedition Motor Company