At first glance, the model we present you in this article may look like a Mercedes-Benz G-Class. However, a closer look will reveal that it is a (very) rare Push 500 GE.
Before we tell you the story of this particular copy, it's worth explaining why the famous German jeep has an Austrian “twin brother”.
Born in 1979, the G-Class was the result of a joint project with the Austrians Steyr-Puch (yes, the same ones behind the Panda 4X4) with Daimler — the Steyr-Puch would give way to the Magna-Steyr in 2001.
As a result of this partnership, in some countries (such as Switzerland and Austria) the Mercedes-Benz G-Class was sold until 1999 with the Puch symbol in its most diverse variants, including this rare Puch 500 GE we are talking about today.
The Push 500 GE
And why is it rare? The 500 GE was the first G-Class to receive a V8 engine, having been produced between 1993 and 1994, and only 446 units came off the production line. of these, only three received the Puch symbol and one of them is precisely the model we are talking about today.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Taken off the production line in 1993, this Puch 500 GE was initially used for homologation purposes, as a press car and extensively photographed for promotional purposes.
Packed with equipment, it doesn't even lack the flashy chrome bull bars typical of the 90s, the cruise control, the alloy wheels or the heated front seats.
Under the bonnet is the M 117, an atmospheric V8 with 5.0 l of capacity, 241 hp and 365 Nm, figures that allowed it to reach 180 km/h and reach 100 km/h in 11.4s.
With no defined bidding base, this rare Puch 500 GE will be auctioned by RM Sotheby's in June in Essen, Germany.
Razão Automóvel's team will continue online, 24 hours a day, during the COVID-19 outbreak. Follow the recommendations of the General Directorate of Health, avoid unnecessary travel. Together we will be able to overcome this difficult phase.