The Mercedes-Benz 280 GE Long W460 Automatic belongs to the first generation of the G-Class, internally designated as the W460 series. Mercedes-Benz developed the G-Class in the 1970s as an off-road vehicle with a functional design, originally intended for use in various conditions and configurations. Production began in 1979, and early models formed the basis for a series of variants that evolved into one of the brand’s longest-running model lines.
Within that first generation, the 280 GE occupied a higher position in the gasoline lineup. The model designation refers to the six-cylinder inline engine, which was primarily offered in variants for customers valuing performance and smoothness over purely utilitarian features. The long wheelbase version made the vehicle better suited for carrying more passengers or providing extra cargo space, making it versatile for various uses.
In 1981, the Mercedes-Benz 280 GE Lang W460 Automatic was still in the early stages of the model series. The early years of the G-Class were characterized by a clear distinction between the basic W460 and the more luxury-oriented variants. The Mercedes-Benz 280 GE combines off-road vehicle design with a more powerful gasoline engine and an automatic transmission.
The Mercedes-Benz 280 GE Long W460 Automatic is recognizable by its angular body shape, characteristic of the early G-Class. The ladder-frame chassis and fixed, functional body design reflect its original purpose as a robust off-road vehicle. The Long version features an extended body, resulting in different proportions compared to shorter versions.
The combination of the 280 GE designation with an automatic transmission makes this variant significant in the model’s history, as many early G-Class vehicles were delivered with manual transmissions. The 280 GE Long W460 Automatic emphasizes versatility within the model range. The car is in running condition.
This 1981 Mercedes-Benz 280 GE Long W460 Automatic is an early G-Class with a long wheelbase, a six-cylinder gasoline engine, and an automatic transmission, part of the first generation produced from 1979. The vehicle is in running condition. For a better understanding of the lot, attending the viewing day is recommended.
Please note: This car is being auctioned online by Classic Car Auctions. Place your bid in the Classics Sports Cars auction in collaboration with Classic Park. The auction is entirely online, and everyone is welcome to view the collection during the viewing days. The listed amount is the lower end of the estimated value, with bidding starting at €5,000.
Bidding page: www.classiccar-auctions.com/en/lot-details/34333
Viewing days for the Classics Sports Cars auction in collaboration with Classic Park are scheduled. The online auction begins on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. and closes on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 8:00 p.m.
For more information, viewing days, and the full selection, visit www.classiccar-auctions.com. Create an account today and start bidding.
Location:
Koppenhoefstraat 14
5283 VK Boxtel
Netherlands
Viewing Day:
Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The viewing days are open to the public. For more details, please visit our website. If you wish to auction your car(s) or collection, contact us at info@classiccar-auctions or visit www.classiccar-auctions.com.
