Swiss Army G model
Extensively customised
Definitely an eye-catcher

The Puch 230 GE was the backbone of the Swiss Army when it came to robust off-road mobility. Between 1983 and 1996, around 4,600 units of the off-road vehicle manufactured in Graz by Steyr-Daimler-Puch were delivered – a vehicle based on the Mercedes-Benz G-model, but specially adapted to the requirements of the Swiss military.

Under the bonnet was the proven 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (M102) with 125 hp, coupled with an automatic transmission and switchable four-wheel drive with locks on both axles. Its strengths lay less in speed than in reliability: inclines, gravel, snow or mud – the Puch 230 GE handled everything with stoic calm.

Typical of the military version were the spartan equipment, the olive green paintwork, the tarpaulin top and the simple, robust technology. Whether as a troop transporter, radio vehicle or ambulance variant – the concept was designed for durability and ease of maintenance.

After decades of service, many vehicles were decommissioned and found their way into civilian hands, where they are now valued as authentic classics with real utility value. The Puch 230 GE is now considered an iconic piece of Austrian-Swiss engineering – proof that function, durability and off-road capability have lost none of their fascination even after 40 years.

This 230 GE was decommissioned by the Swiss Army Logistics Base in November 2021. The owner brought the Puch to Germany in January of the following year and had the well-preserved off-road vehicle extensively refurbished: Alcantara interior with yellow stitching, not only in the cockpit but also in the passenger compartment. The chassis was raised and the rims were painted black to contrast with the bright yellow paintwork. The result is a highly individual Puch G which, unlike in its camouflaged army days, is guaranteed to attract attention today.