A development of the earlier military incarnation, it was not until 1979 that a civilian could walk into a showroom and place an order for a Geländewagen, now known as the G-Class. Developed in tandem with Steyr-Daimler-Puch of Austria—already a leader in developing vehicles for both military and off-road applications—early iterations were closer to military vehicles than passenger cars, sacrificing refinement for ultimate off-road capability.

The model’s boxy and purposeful appearance and its “go anywhere” capabilities won it many admirers—attributes which would remain largely unchanged throughout its remarkable lifetime. Now the most enduring Mercedes-Benz model, body styles throughout its history ranged from convertibles, station wagons, panel vans, to landaulets, and a bespoke example nicknamed “Papa G” created to transport Pope John Paul II, on his visit to Germany in 1980.

The W463-generation of the model, arriving in 1990, was an extensively revised version of the earlier W460, which aimed to add a touch of luxury to the cross-country off-roader and allow it to compete with the plush and capable Range Rover. The model continued its utilitarian and military ideals as the W461, but the W463’s focus was comfort. The model’s appearance became altogether smoother and more refined, the interior added sound-proofing, wood, leather, and a host of creature comforts—though not at the expense of its off-road prowess, which was now aided by three electronically controlled locking differentials.

A model designation that remained in production for 28 years, the W463-generation offered the widest range of engines fitted to any Mercedes-Benz vehicle, ranging from four to 12 cylinders, and boasting turbochargers, superchargers, naturally aspirated engines, twin turbos and both petrol and diesel variants. In 1993 the G-Class forayed into Range Rover-baiting territory with the arrival of the 500 GE; fitted with a 5.0-litre V-8 engine and offering buyers a genuine choice of luxury off-roader. Continuing the lineage, in 1999 the first official AMG G-Wagen arrived since the company was majority owned by Daimler-Chrysler, boasting a tuned 349 horsepower 5.4-litre V-8 engine and a smooth automatic gearbox. A recipe which is still the basis of its modern descendants. Extra features of the AMG conversion included side-exhaust pipes, five-spoke alloy wheels, chrome detailing, and AMG badges.

This 2001 G 55 Cabriolet is a rare and desirable early example, offered in short-wheelbase, convertible specification. The G-Wagen was coverted by AMG and is thought to be one of only 12 to have been modified by the tuner. Finished in Obsidian Black with black leather trim and a black soft-top roof, it features the Exclusive Package, burr walnut veneer interior trims, the Comand system with satellite navigation, a CD changer, a stainless steel spare tyre cover and radiator grille, 18-inch five-spoke light alloy wheels, heated seats, and velour floor mats. This example was acquired by its consigning owner just last year and now its odometer displays 120,493 kilometres at the time of cataloguing.

A renowned luxury off-roader of early 2000s fame, the G 55 is part of a niche and exclusive collector market. And this well-presented early example of the breed awaits its next owner to be enjoyed as an ideal companion for open-top adventures in warm weather.