The $35,000 Dilemma: A 278K-Mile Mercedes G-Wagen or a New Toyota Camry?

A fascinating choice has emerged in the used car market: a 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 with an astonishing 278,000 miles on the odometer, listed for $35,500. This iconic off-roader, originally a military workhorse and now a global status symbol, presents a direct financial dilemma against a brand-new, reliable Toyota Camry. The question isn’t just about money, but lifestyle, utility, and the unique allure of automotive legends.

The Enduring Legend: A High-Mileage Mercedes-Benz G500

This particular G-Wagen stands as a testament to the model’s legendary durability and versatility, looking remarkably well-preserved despite its extensive mileage.

Mileage Milestone: With 278,000 miles, this G500 has traveled enough to circle the Earth more than eleven times, proving its robust engineering.
Aesthetic & Off-Road Upgrades:
- Updated with 2020 model year G-Class bumpers and LED lighting.
- Lifted suspension to accommodate larger off-road tires on blacked-out stock wheels.
- Added overland roof rack.
- Shaved and filled tailgate for a cleaner look.
Interior Modernization: Features an upgraded touchscreen head unit with Apple CarPlay and a custom Starlight headliner.
Reliable Powertrain: Powered by a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 292 horsepower and 336 lb-ft of torque. This engine is renowned for its reliability and decent fuel economy for its class.
True Off-Road Capability: Power is routed through a five-speed automatic transmission to a proper four-wheel-drive system with locking differentials.
Maintenance History: The service history indicates proper maintenance throughout its extensive life, crucial for a vehicle with such high mileage.

Source: Exotic Car Trader

The $35,000 Question: Icon vs. Appliance

This G-Wagen’s price point puts it in direct competition with a brand-new Toyota Camry, forcing a choice between a dependable daily driver and an off-road icon.

Feature / Consideration	278K-Mile Mercedes-Benz G500 ($35,500)	New Toyota Camry (~$35,000)
Durability & Provenance	Legendarily durable; 278,000 miles with proper maintenance.	Brand new, modern reliability.
Image & Appeal	Recognizable luxury status symbol; head-turner.	Practical, sensible, ubiquitous.
Off-Road Capability	Highly capable off-roader with locking differentials.	Primarily road-focused; limited off-road ability.
Depreciation/Resale	High chance to sell for close to purchase price years later; past major depreciation.	High initial depreciation.
Usage Intent	Can be used as intended (off-road, rugged adventures) without worrying about “babying” it.	Primarily for comfortable, efficient daily commuting.
Maintenance & Running Costs	Likely higher and less predictable maintenance/repair costs due to age and mileage.	Predictably low running and maintenance costs, good gas mileage.

The “Bargain” G-Wagen for Enthusiasts

Early 2000s G-Wagons, especially these pre-facelift models, are increasingly becoming sought-after by enthusiasts who appreciate their utilitarian roots before the G-Class became exclusively a “Rodeo Drive” vehicle. Clean examples typically fetch between $40,000 and $60,000, making this high-mileage example a potential bargain entry point into G-Wagen ownership.

The allure of this high-mileage G-Class lies in its “past the point of babying it” status. At this price, owners can truly use it for its intended purpose of adventure without fear of significantly impacting its already-adjusted resale value. This contrasts sharply with a new Camry, which begins depreciating the moment it leaves the lot. For those prioritizing character, capability, and a unique presence over pristine newness and predictable running costs, the 278K-mile G-Wagen offers an undeniably compelling, albeit unconventional, proposition.

Also Read – Jaguar Land Rover Restarts Production After $2.67 Billion Cyber Attack Shutdown