Custom Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon ute for sale in Melbourne has a surprise under the bonnet

Are you looking for a Mercedes-Benz G-Class that stands out from the others? Do you like spending close to $100,000 on a project vehicle that needs some work and has no warranty? If the answer is yes then you may be in luck.

A Melbourne enthusiast has advertised a customised 1987 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ute for sale on Facebook Marketplace – priced at $95,000, as is, with some finishing touches yet to be added.

The classic 460-series G-Wagon has been treated to an updated 462 Series AMG body kit that provides a new nose, fenders and rear lamps, but also a significant amount of bodywork that has transformed the wagon into a ute.

The back of the wagon body has been removed and the rear window from a single-cab G-Class ute has been welded behind the rear seats, enabling space for a compact tub.

Think of it as a super-sized Suzuki Mighty Boy.

A bigger surprise lies under the bonnet. The original engine (either a 3.0-litre five-cylinder diesel or 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol) has been replaced by a 5.7-litre Chevrolet LS1 V8 – the same used in the VT-VX Holden Commodore.

In fact, the engine cover is from a Commodore, with a Mercedes badge in place of the Holden one.

The seller notes the custom vehicle starts and drives – but needs the interior to be re-upholstered and installed for the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon ute to be complete.

High-end tuning companies like Brabus will build you a customised G-Class ute, but will charge you appropriately high-end pricing.

While the project Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon ute advertised in Melbourne also isn't cheap, it could be a cost-effective way to look a million-dollars in a very unique machine.

View the Facebook Marketplace listing here.