The Good
The 2003 G-Class offers robust off-road performance and distinctive, iconic design that appeals emotionally. Practically, it provides durability and a luxurious interior. While not fuel-efficient, its reliability, build quality, and the status it conveys contribute to its overall value. Its comfortable ride, considering its off-road prowess, is a plus.
The Bad
The 2003 G-Class suffers from poor fuel economy, which is a significant drawback. Its handling can feel truck-like on pavement. Rust can be an issue, particularly in areas with road salt. Maintenance and repairs can be expensive due to the G-Wagon's complex systems and premium parts. Inspect for differential and transfer case leaks.
2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Primarily a 5.0-liter V8 (G500)
- Horsepower: Around 292 hp (G500)
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimates typically around 11 mpg city / 14 mpg highway (G500), making it quite inefficient.
- 0-60 Times: Roughly 8.0 seconds (G500).
- Towing Capacity: Approximately 7,000 lbs when properly equipped.
- Trim-Level Features (G500):
- Leather upholstery
- Wood trim
- Heated front seats
- Automatic climate control
- Premium sound system
- Power windows and locks
- Sunroof
- Cruise control
- Four-wheel drive with low range
- Locking differentials (front, center, and rear)
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Alloy wheels
Note that specific features and options might vary slightly based on individual vehicle configurations and packages. It's always advisable to verify the exact specifications of a particular vehicle before purchase.
2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-Class |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | VANCE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 5423 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.0 8 |
| Engine Size | 5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $73,600 |
| Invoice Price | $68,448 |
| Delivery Charges | $720 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Have?
Suspension components, including bushings and ball joints, may wear out faster than in other SUVs due to the G-Class's heavy-duty off-road design and weight. Engine oil leaks are also not uncommon. While the 2003 model year itself doesn't have a significantly higher recall rate than other years within its generation, it's crucial to check the vehicle's history for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability depends heavily on proper maintenance. Neglecting routine servicing can exacerbate existing issues and lead to premature failure of critical components. Given the age of these vehicles, thorough pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are essential to identify potential problems and assess the overall condition.
How long will the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability program (ESP), and front airbags. Side airbags were often optional. Its high seating position and robust construction contribute to a sense of safety. While modern driver aids like blind-spot monitoring or lane-keeping assist are absent, the G-Class prioritizes ruggedness and reliability over cutting-edge technology.
Due to its age and design, the 2003 G-Class was not subjected to modern crash testing standards by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. Therefore, official crash test ratings are unavailable. The emphasis was on the vehicle's strong body-on-frame construction and inherent ruggedness to withstand impacts. Optional features could include a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and various interior trim options, depending on the original buyer's preferences. For its time, it offered reasonable luxury and safety, but it's important to recognize that modern vehicles offer significantly more advanced technology.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Prices and Market Value
2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cost of Ownership
2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Fuel Efficiency
2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
If off-road prowess is paramount, the G-Class remains a strong contender, though its on-road manners are less refined. For a blend of luxury, reliability, and off-road capability, the Lexus LX 470 presents a compelling alternative. If on-road comfort and features are higher priorities, the Range Rover might appeal, but potential reliability issues should be carefully considered. Ultimately, the "better" choice depends on individual needs and preferences. The G-Class's unique charm and capabilities command a premium, while more practical alternatives offer different strengths.
Ranks #699 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 699 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G-Class a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
gondreguy on November 21, 2019
Proud customer of Brooklyn Auto SalesVery reliable, comfortable, gas efficient and appealing. I feel like a king when I am driving this truck. And, it does not often require service.
Timeless G55 AMG has been known to last 450K miles on February 26, 2019
They don't build them like they did in 2003!2003 G55 AMG's were a much more solid build w/the best engine, great gas mileage, I've owned this car for 15 years and the only thing I've had to update was the radio and speakers! No other vehicle is known to go over 450,000 miles. Timeless!!
Gwagon on March 18, 2017
The Most Fun I've Had is with this carThis car is so much fun to drive. Definitely an eye turner every where I take it. It's also a very hard to find truck. Here is your chance to own it for a fraction of the price. Looks just just a 2017 one. Very minor changes between them.
Jlang on February 9, 2017
2003 Mercedes-Benz G500Great car for the value point! Had a reliable and bulletproof motor, transmission, and drivetrain is solid! You can easily tell that the quality of even the older G-Wagens is of top notch craftsmanship. These are going up in value and now is definelty the time to buy one!
G-wagon "G" G-55 on February 26, 2009
WOWThis is a rock solid bullet that turns corners as well as it turns heads. Looks like no other car out there and thats becuase you won't find more than a thousand in the USA. 200 hundred a year for 5 years from what I understand, if its on a new lot its just a 2007 with clever signage but the G-55 is not in production.
Rev Boy on February 4, 2007
For two weeks I'm a movie stara good friend loaned the car to me while away. Have been driving her in the harshest michigan winter. love the heated seats. They are fast and very warm. She handles the slick roads and snow drifts no problem. She feels very "manly". Everytime I put on turn signal I hit the cruise control by mistake. That seems a safety issue. Would need a course in all the controls. Need a co-pilot to operate climate, radio etc. I heard she is bullet proof. Is that so? Kids think she's pretty cool. It's been a treat driving her, although I don't think I could afford the gas over the long haul. It I had the cash, I'd buy her over other similar styel cars although I think she is in a class by herself.
MacFantastix on May 18, 2006
I've got what I wanted.Trying to buy a 320CDI for my wife proved to be my lucky day. Returning from testing the CDI, I saw my next car. I instantly knew that I had to have it: a G-500 Gelaendewagen. I had never driven a vehicle that had another 12" of headroom after I had sat down in it. All switches and dials perfectly located within reach. The cup holder is one strange device. I have never seen one looking more like an afterthought than this thing. The Germans say that they don't have them because, once they are behind the wheel of a car, they focus on driving and don't need to drink designer water. But they have "Autobahns" and we don't. We have to have refreshments, or do we? Then there is the executive basketball net in the passender footwell. What on earth is that supposed to be? Even my sales rep couldn't answer that one. Then I drove it. Its interior elegance and luxory are amazing. The outside is, well, like a wrestler gone Hollywood. Everybody stares at this vehicle. Hard acceleration makes this vehicle roar, really roar out loud. Really made the sounds of a really capable, really big and really fast vehicle. Just what I had always wanted. I am one happy guy. My wife still hasn't got her CDI. Oh, well.
gondreguy on November 21, 2019
Proud customer of Brooklyn Auto SalesVery reliable, comfortable, gas efficient and appealing. I feel like a king when I am driving this truck. And, it does not often require service.
Timeless G55 AMG has been known to last 450K miles on February 26, 2019
They don't build them like they did in 2003!2003 G55 AMG's were a much more solid build w/the best engine, great gas mileage, I've owned this car for 15 years and the only thing I've had to update was the radio and speakers! No other vehicle is known to go over 450,000 miles. Timeless!!
Gwagon on March 18, 2017
The Most Fun I've Had is with this carThis car is so much fun to drive. Definitely an eye turner every where I take it. It's also a very hard to find truck. Here is your chance to own it for a fraction of the price. Looks just just a 2017 one. Very minor changes between them.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma