1980 Mercedes-Benz

Four Paris-Dakar participations

Driven and owned by Clay Regazzoni

Specially built for Paris-Dakar

Believed to be the last existing example

Ideal for historic rally events

In running condition

The Mercedes-Benz G 600 TE AMG

It is one of the most extraordinary vehicles ever to emerge from the collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and AMG. The project was created at the end of the 1980s as an uncompromising rally vehicle for the toughest long-distance competitions in the world, above all the Paris Dakar Rally. It was based on the Mercedes G model, which was, however, extensively modified in almost all areas for this application. In total, only two vehicles of this specification were built, of which only one has survived as far as we know today. This example is closely associated with the name Clay Regazzoni and is regarded as a unique testimony to early AMG engineering expertise. AMG spared no effort to create a competitive rally car. The engine used was a 6-litre V8 from the 126 series, which was based on the most powerful Mercedes production engine af the time. The displacement was increased to almost six litres, resulting in an output of 331 hp and a maximum torque of over 520 Newtonmetres. These were impressive figures for a rally car of this era. In order to optimise the weight distribution, the engine was moved as far back as possible. The entire chassis, as well as the gearbox and differentials, were reinforced to withstand the enormous stresses of desert use. The body was no longer made of steel, but of a combination of fibreglass, Kevlar and aluminium. The underbody was also given special carbon Kevlar protection. Visually, the vehicle was initially reminiscent of a series G model, but technically it was a thoroughbred competition vehicle. Particularly striking was the enormous tank capacity of around 450 litres in total, distributed over several safety tanks. This allowed extremely long stages without refuelling and was a decisive advantage in desert rallies.

About the vehicle offered here

The first known use of this vehicle was at the Paris Dakar Rally in 1989. At that time, Regazzoni still had the appearance of the G model, but the vehicle broke down after an incident, ending the race. This was followed in 1990 by the second entry in the Paris Dakar Rally with starting number 223, for which Mercedes decided to replace the old G-Model body shell with a sportier-looking customised version. This consisted of components from production vehicles and many in-house designs. The next entry in the Paris Dakar took place in 1991. With starting number 260, a defect in the harbour of Marseille led to an early retirement. Regazzoni and this vehicle contested the fourth and final Paris Dakar race in 1992. It was also used in other international rallies, including the 1991 Rally of the Pharaohs and the 1993 Baja Espana. Former Formula 1 world champion Clay Regazzoni used the vehicle several times in competition and subsequently kept it in his private collection. Among other things, he drove the vehicle in Argentina during this time. After Regazzoni's death, his family sold the vehicle. In the 2000s, it was used in several classic rallies, including the 2008 Transafricane Classic. Our sales staff will be happy to answer any detailed questions you may have at any time. Please note that vehicle viewings are only possible by prior appointment.