Here’s a video of the Mercedes-Benz Unimog being put through its paces at the test track in Oetigheim, Germany. In case your German is a little rusty, here are the key points, translated.
The Unimog began production in 1948 at Erhard & Sölle. In 1953 it came under the wing of Mercedes-Benz. In 1962 expanded Unimog production began. It was then available with a diesel motor and readied for the world market. The latest generation was introduced in 2002.
It is, of course 4-wheel drive, has front, rear, and center locking differentials, 4-wheel disc brakes with selectable ABS, and portal axles which allow for 48cm (18.9 in.) of ground clearance. It has 8 forward and 6 reverse gears.
The axles flex independently up to 30˚. The Unimog can climb a maximum slope of 45˚ (100% grade). An adjustable tire pressure system helps to conquer steep slopes. The vehicle can travel along a 38˚ side slope and, given its snorkel, ford depths to 1.20 m (47 in.).
Impressed? Head to your nearest Mercedes-Benz truck center. Unimogs start at 80,000 Euro (104,900 US$) or at least they did around 2006, when this video was uploaded.
I found this video through my friends at Expedition Portal.
