Mercedes Unimog

At Deane Motors, we’ve always had a soft spot for vehicles that were built with a job to do. Not delicate, not fashionable, but utterly indestructible. And few machines embody that philosophy better than the legendary Mercedes-Benz Unimog.

This 1955 example represents one of the most charming and historically significant early versions of the breed – fitted with the distinctive “Froschauge” (Frog-Eye) cab developed by Westfalia-Werke in the early 1950s. Before this clever bit of engineering, Unimog drivers essentially sat out in the elements under little more than a canvas sheet. Westfalia’s enclosed cab not only made life significantly more comfortable but also defined the design direction of the Unimog for decades to come.

Now celebrating its 70th year, this particular Unimog has undergone a comprehensive restoration from the chassis up and presents in superb condition throughout. The truck is entirely corrosion-free following the work carried out, and it shows. The paintwork is beautifully finished – especially impressive given the agricultural nature of the vehicle – while the red steel wheels wear fresh agricultural tyres that look ready for another lifetime of hard work.

The rear tipper tray has been fitted with newly laser-etched woodwork, giving it a wonderfully crisp and authentic appearance. Inside, the cabin has been sympathetically upgraded with grey leather upholstery finished with contrasting piping and stitching, striking a perfect balance between practicality and a touch of comfort that early farmers could only have dreamed of. The controls and instrumentation present exactly as they should – simple, robust and charmingly mechanical.

Power comes from the original 1.7-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and the Unimog’s legendary four-wheel-drive system complete with low range. The electrical system has been fully renewed, the engine bay is well detailed, and the vehicle runs and drives extremely well with all features operating exactly as intended. While we do say she drives well… it’s also a near 70 year old road/tractor so please bear that in mind.

With just 86,707 kilometres indicated, this Unimog is a wonderful piece of industrial history. Whether you collect agricultural machinery, want something utterly unique for forestry or estate work, or simply fancy arriving at Cars & Coffee in something that could probably tow the entire car park home afterwards, this early Unimog delivers charm, capability and character in equal measure.

After all, plenty of vehicles claim to be go-anywhere. The Unimog just quietly gets on with proving it.