The LEGO® Technic Mercedes-Benz G 500 Professional Line (set number 42177) has been generating buzz among both LEGO and car aficionados. As a content creator for cardetailinguk.com, specializing in automotive excellence, I’m excited to dive deep into this detailed model. Does this vibrant, reddish-orange brick-built beast live up to the hype? Let’s explore what makes this Lego Mercedes G Wagon a standout in the Technic lineup.
Unboxing the LEGO Mercedes G Wagon: First Impressions
The box itself signals a premium experience. Inside, you’re greeted with 20 paper bags, a couple of plastic bags, and five robust wheels with rims. The instruction manuals are substantial, split into two hefty books that, side-by-side, hint at the scale of this project. Unlike some of the larger LEGO sets, the manuals don’t quite form a complete image, suggesting this model sits just below the super-car category in size, but still promises a significant build. A sticker sheet is included for added detail, but the model looks fantastic even without them.
The initial pages of the first manual offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, celebrating its 45-year legacy. It’s a nice touch that adds context to the model. Notably, there’s a photo featuring the lead designer, Milan Reindl, a welcome recognition of the talent behind these intricate LEGO creations.
Examining the LEGO Technic Pieces: A Palette of Possibilities
The sheer volume and variety of pieces are immediately impressive. While a detailed “knolling” approach wasn’t taken for this review, the provided images give a good sense of the component mix. Starting around bag 9, the distinctive New Reddish-Orange* pieces begin to appear, a color introduced this year and seemingly exclusive to this set at the time of review. The vibrant color is a refreshing departure from the greys often seen in Technic models, making this LEGO Mercedes G Wagon visually striking.
Among the highlights are a welcome assortment of colorful gears, an orange gear shifter fork (a relatively rare piece), Mercedes-Benz printed tiles and round shields, and the hubcaps which are shared with another large Mercedes-Benz LEGO set from this year. Of course, the newly designed wheels are a standout feature, perfectly suiting the G Wagon’s rugged aesthetic.
One pleasant surprise is the color consistency of the New Reddish-Orange* pieces. LEGO has faced criticism for color variations in some sets, but the G Wagon exhibits excellent uniformity in its orange elements, a testament to quality control in this release.
The Build Experience: From Chassis to Iconic Shape
The build process of the LEGO Mercedes G Wagon is engaging and varied. The initial bags focus on the front suspension and steering mechanisms. It’s noteworthy that two different types of springs are used in the front suspension, resulting in a noticeably soft suspension system, appropriate for an off-road vehicle like the G Wagon.
Moving forward, you construct a vibrant gearbox that incorporates gearing for high and low gear, forward and reverse, and the selection between front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive. Even at this early stage, the model showcases the mechanical elegance of traditional automotive engineering.
While the inclusion of pistons is a nice detail, they become largely obscured once the engine top is installed, somewhat diminishing their visual impact. Despite this, the build progresses to form the chassis and rear differential (including a locking mechanism), quickly evolving into a buggy-like structure. Even at this stage, the functional model is engaging to play with, demonstrating the core mechanics.
The addition of a roll cage-like structure adds to the off-road aesthetic, reminiscent of early four-wheel-drive vehicles. A slightly confusing section in the instructions arises during the rear seat installation, requiring careful attention to ensure correct placement.
Image depicting the roll cage structure being added to the LEGO Mercedes G Wagon, enhancing its rugged appearance.
The build then transitions into the “orange period,” where the iconic bodywork begins to take shape. Doors with working latches, front seats, the dashboard, and the distinctive front grille and bonnet are constructed. The bonnet utilizes a flexible hinge design, allowing for both a flush closed position and a fully opened display, a clever solution balancing aesthetics and functionality.
The sticker sheet includes a German license plate, “S – G1979,” paying homage to Stuttgart, the headquarters of Mercedes-Benz, the G-Class model line, and its original 1979 release year. However, a minor drawback is the slight color difference between the New Reddish-Orange* plastic pieces and the stickers, a recurring issue in some LEGO sets.
The final stages involve building the roof (with a functional roof window), spare wheel holder, roof rack, and a roof storage case. The spare wheel mount offers two style options: a minimalist approach and a more robust, “serious” mount, allowing for customization.
A minor frustration arises with the roof storage box lid, which utilizes the notoriously stiff SINGLE BUSH 2 MODULE, DIA. 4,9 connectors, making it challenging to attach.
Delving into the Differentials: Engineering in Miniature
A key highlight of this LEGO Mercedes G Wagon is its functional differentials. It features three in total: one between the front wheels, one between the rear wheels (lockable), and a central differential connecting the front and rear axles. These differentials allow for realistic four-wheel-drive functionality, enabling the vehicle to navigate uneven terrain by distributing power effectively to each wheel. The locking rear differential adds another layer of authenticity, simulating off-road capabilities.
[Watch a video demonstration of the differentials and functionality in action]
Size and Scale: Is it Minifigure Compatible?
While minifigures are dwarfed by the LEGO Mercedes G Wagon, miniland figures, like those from the LEGOLAND Entrance set, fit surprisingly well. This opens up possibilities for creating custom figures to populate your brick-built G-Class. Even Mario seems comfortable behind the wheel!
Final Verdict: Is the LEGO Mercedes G Wagon a Must-Have?
The LEGO 42177 Mercedes-Benz G500 Professional Line is undeniably an impressive Technic model. It strikes a good balance between aesthetic appeal and functional engineering. While it may not ignite the same level of fascination as more specialized sets like the Apollo LRV for some, its smooth suspension and well-implemented four-wheel-drive system are commendable.
For Technic enthusiasts and car lovers, this set offers a rewarding build experience and a visually striking display piece. Compared to other sets in the same price range, like the Apollo LRV, the G Wagon provides more pieces, weight, and a vibrant color scheme.
Overall, this LEGO Mercedes G Wagon earns a solid 4 out of 5. It’s a strong example of high-end Technic design without venturing into the extreme price bracket of the supercars. With 2891 pieces and a release date of August 1, 2024, at a recommended retail price of AU$ 399.99/£219.99/$249.99/€249.99, it represents a significant investment but delivers a commensurate LEGO experience.
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What are your thoughts on the LEGO Mercedes G Wagon? Is it on your wishlist? Let us know in the comments below!
* Rambling Brick policy: the name is ‘new reddish-orange’ until 2025.
