Developed jointly by Mercedes-Benz and Steyr-Daimler-Puch, the W460 G-model entered production in Graz, Austria, in 1979. Sold under the Puch name in select markets, it combined rugged body-on-frame construction with four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, and locking front and rear differentials, giving it exceptional off-road ability.
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First registered in December 1987, this short-wheelbase 280 GE is powered by the fuel-injected 2.8-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing approximately 158 PS and retains the two-speed transfer case and locking front and rear differentials that underpinned the G-model’s formidable off-road capability. This example is particularly notable as a “Montana,” a distinctive special version offered through official Puch channels in Switzerland. Its special character remains evident in period details including the Montana-branded spare-wheel cover, red lower-body pinstriping, flared wheel arches, alloy wheels, and plaid cloth upholstery. The cabin further retains its Puch steering wheel and original utilitarian fittings.
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Displaying an unrestored patina and accompanied by its manuals, this characterful Montana offers a rarely encountered variation of the original G-Wagen, combining distinctive Swiss-market specification with the rugged engineering and purposeful design that established the model’s enduring reputation.