The New Jersey-based restorer’s latest creation combines the rugged charm of the original G-Wagen with newfound practicality and engine options ranging from a Mercedes diesel to an American V8.
A Bigger Take on a Classic
Expedition Motor Company (EMC), a New Jersey-based restorer known for reviving vintage Mercedes-Benz G-Wagens, has taken its craftsmanship to a larger scale. The company, which built its reputation on short-wheelbase 250GD “Wolf” models, has introduced a long-wheelbase (LWB) G-Class Cabriolet. With a starting price of $235,000, this new version caters to those who want the same military-grade aesthetic and open-air feel, but with more room and power.
Stretching the G-Wagen Formula
This is the first time EMC has extended a G-Class chassis, marking a significant departure from its compact Wolf builds. The longer wheelbase adds practicality, allowing the once two-door utility rig to carry more passengers without losing its rugged charm. EMC founder Alex Levin described the goal succinctly:
“The introduction of the Long Wheelbase Cabrio allows us to bring that same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail to a larger platform... while comfortably accommodating more passengers.”
Convertible Room for Eight
The LWB Cabrio offers a layout that’s far more versatile than the original military-derived two-door. Up front sit the driver and passenger, followed by two additional front-facing seats. In the cargo area, EMC offers two optional inward-facing benches, each able to seat two people, bringing total capacity up to eight. These benches can also be removed to expand cargo space, making the G both a people hauler and a gear carrier.
Engine Choices
Under the hood, buyers can choose between two distinct personalities. The first is a Mercedes OM606a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel, tuned to 275 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, significantly more potent than the older five-cylinder diesels used in previous EMC builds. For those who want more punch, EMC offers a 6.2-liter GM LS3 V8 producing 430 horsepower.
German Diesel or American Muscle
Transmission options vary depending on the engine. Diesel-powered builds usually retain period-correct Mercedes gearboxes (available in manual or automatic), while LS3-equipped models receive modernized units to handle the extra output—all while keeping the original G-Wagen’s classic shifter look.
Details Inside and Out
Aesthetically, EMC’s stretched G-Class balances authenticity with subtle modernization. The exterior can be finished in virtually any color and paired with custom bumpers, wheels, and LED lighting. One showcased example wears dark green paint, black bull bars, and 18-inch wheels. Inside, brown leather bucket seats and a fold-down windshield complete the convertible experience.
The rest is entirely up to the customer: roof type, interior color, trim materials, brake caliper finishes, and even wheel designs are all configurable.
The Price of Nostalgia and Craftsmanship
At $235,000, the LWB Cabrio G is considerably more expensive than EMC’s shorter Wolf builds, which start around $185,000. But for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a meticulously rebuilt G-Class with expanded usability, and the option of a Corvette-derived V8, it occupies a niche with little competition.
Despite the price, EMC has already sold numerous custom Gs from the early 1990s, suggesting that there’s no shortage of demand for vintage off-roaders that blend old-school design with modern performance and comfort.
