2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Trims and Specs

In 2004 the Mercedes-Benz Gelaendewagen, which loosely translates as "tough terrain vehicle," celebrated its 25th anniversary. Although it had been available in North America for only a few years as the G500, it first hit the pavement in 1979 as vehicle for police forces and military use. It maintained that military temperament throughout the next two and a half decades, and although dressed up as a luxury SUV, at its heart the 2004 G500 was still very much a rough-and-ready vehicle.

New standard features for 2004 included a Parktronic rear parking sensor, multi-contour seats, and a Harmon Kardon audio system. The automaker also rolled out a commemorative 25th-anniversary edition with special wheels, a silver grille, and special badging. Like the other G500 models, it came with a 5.0-liter, 292-hp V8 and features such as power heated seats, alloy wheels, full-time four-wheel drive, climate control, remote keyless entry, navigation system, and even front and rear cup holders.

For its second year of availability in North America, the G55 AMG from Mercedes-Benz received a few tweaks to its already-stellar lineup of features. New multicolor front seats were added to the package, as were rear parking sensors and an upgraded Harmon Kardon audio system.

Beyond that, there wasn't much you could add to the G55. Pick just about any feature category that's important to you and it excels. Cargo capacity? You've got 45 cubic feet behind the rear seat and a whopping 80 cubic feet with the rear seats are folded down. Horsepower? A beefed-up 349 hp, generated by a 5.4-liter, single-overhead-cam, 24-valve V8. Off-road capabilities? Rigid axles, triple locking differentials (front, center, and rear) for different types of terrain, gas shocks, and premium 18-inch tires. On-road capabilities? Aided by an electronic stability program and 4-wheel electronic traction system.

Of course, we also have to include the G55's standard luxury features, which include power-adjustable heated leather seats, wood interior trim, two-zone automatic climate control, a lighted entry system, power sunroof, cruise control, trip computer, anti-theft alarm system, and a whole lot more.