Inventory Listing

Here’s the G-Wagon you’ve been looking for! Locally owned 2003 Mercedes G55 AMG Designo with only 136k original miles! Finished in Silver Metallic with black leather interior. The DESIGNO custom package includes black OEM 18″ Mercedes wheels wrapped in new TOYO Open Country A/T tires, gloss black fender flares, tinted windows, black roof, front and rear gloss black bumpers with front lower bumper guard bar, taillight guards, and front headlight protection guard grills that set this G55 off. Most of the Silver G Wagon’s on the market have color-matched front and rear bumpers with zero contrast so this one stands out from the rest. The engine was hand-assembled in a dedicated AMG facility in Affalterbach, Germany- the 5.4 Liter V8 paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and triple-lock differential! Well maintained with a majority of its services coming from Fletcher Jones Motorcars of Newport Beach, CA.

Fully serviced and ready to go for its new owner. If you’ve been wanting a G-Wagon but can’t afford the new 2025 G AMG that starts around $150K this is the one you want. With the DESIGNO edition upgrades, very people would know this is a 2003 as they didn’t change the body style until 2019!  Upgraded with a Sony headunit with Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth handsfree calling, and backup camera with the factory steering wheel audio controls still intact. This won’t last long, so don’t miss out this is the only G55 AMG on the market in SLO County, so call before it sells! MSRP on this one was $95,570.00!

SERVICED WITH BRAND-NEW:

• Synthetic Oil Change w/ Filter
• Valve Cover Gaskets
• Crankcase Breather Hose (3)
• Power Steering Reservoir Gasket w/ new Retainer
• Engine Oil Separator Hose
• Air Distribution Hose Connector
• Water Pump
• Upper Radiator Hose
• Lower Radiator Hose
• Coolant
• Thermostat Assembly
• Serpentine Belt
• Valve Cover Bolts

NHTSA Safety Ratings

The 2003 Mercedes G-Class (including the G55 AMG) received solid safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), though testing for this era was less comprehensive than today. These scores reflect the vehicle’s robust body-on-frame construction and stability in crash scenarios. While not equipped with modern aids like automatic emergency braking, its ratings highlight strong frontal and rollover protection, bolstered by features like ABS and multiple airbags.

• Frontal Crash – Driver: ★★★☆☆
• Frontal Crash – Passenger: ★★★☆☆
• Rollover Resistance: ★★★☆☆
• Side Crash Ratings: Not Rated (NHTSA did not perform side crash tests for this model year)

Essentials 

• Iconic Design and Rarity: The G55 AMG Designo edition features exclusive styling like piano black accents and maple wood trim, making it a collector’s item among G-Class enthusiasts.
• Moderate Mileage with Potential: At 136,000 miles, it averages about 7,100 miles per year—low for its age—and with proper care, G-Wagens often exceed 300,000 miles.
• Five-Owner History: Clean transitions among owners, with no fleet or rental use, ensuring the vehicle wasn’t subjected to heavy abuse.
• Clean Carfax and Title: Two minor damage reports (2018 and 2023) were cosmetic and repaired professionally; clean California title with no liens or salvage issues.
• Extensive Service Records: 30 documented services, primarily at Fletcher Jones Motorcars, cover everything from oil changes to suspension work, indicating premium upkeep.
• Powerful 5.4L AMG V8 Engine: Delivers 349 horsepower and 387 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic for impressive acceleration.
• Fuel Economy: EPA-rated at 12 mpg city / 15 mpg highway / 13 mpg combined, typical for a performance-oriented SUV of this era.
• Spacious and Luxurious Interior: Seats five with charcoal Nappa leather, Designo headrests, and ample cargo space (up to 79.5 cubic feet with seats folded).
• Off-Road Prowess: Equipped with triple locking differentials, low-range transfer case, and permanent AWD for exceptional capability.
• AMG and Designo Upgrades: Hand-built AMG engine and Designo customizations add exclusivity, enhancing resale value and driving experience.

History of the Generation

The 2003 Mercedes G55 AMG belongs to the first generation of the G-Class (W463 platform), produced from 1990 to 2018 with ongoing updates that preserved its iconic boxy design while modernizing internals. Originally developed in the 1970s as a military vehicle for the German army, the G-Class (Geländewagen) transitioned to civilian sales in 1979, with the W463 debuting in 1990 to emphasize luxury alongside off-road capability. The 2003 model year fell during a period of AMG integration, where Mercedes-AMG tuned high-performance variants like the G55. Produced primarily at the Magna Steyr plant in Graz, Austria—hand-assembled for quality—this generation saw hundreds of thousands built globally, with the G55 AMG as a rare, limited-production model (fewer than 1,000 per year in some markets). Mercedes focused on durability and timeless styling to appeal to affluent buyers, introducing updates like improved interiors and electronics in the early 2000s. The first generation’s legacy is its unmatched longevity and cult status, often called the “G-Wagon,” with BTC-backed examples lasting decades due to military-grade construction. It bridged rugged utility with luxury, paving the way for modern G-Class evolutions while remaining a symbol of status and adventure.

Fuel Economy, Horsepower, Torque Ratings

The 2003 Mercedes G55 AMG is powered by a hand-built 5.4-liter V8 engine, producing 349 horsepower at 5,500 RPM and 387 lb-ft of torque at 2,800-4,500 RPM. This setup delivers exhilarating performance, with 0-60 mph times around 6.9 seconds—remarkable for a 5,500-pound SUV. Paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive, it offers smooth power delivery and confident acceleration, though the supercharger provides a surge of low-end torque for quick launches. Fuel economy is rated by the EPA at 12 mpg in the city, 15 mpg on the highway, and 13 mpg combined—expected for a high-performance V8 of this era, with real-world figures often around 11-14 mpg depending on driving style. The engine’s design prioritizes power over efficiency, making it thirstier than modern hybrids but rewarding for enthusiasts. Towing capacity is up to 7,000 lbs, suitable for trailers or boats. Overall, the G55 AMG balances brute force with refined cruising, standing out for its torque-rich response in varied conditions.

Best Features and Performance Comparison

The 2003 Mercedes G55 AMG Designo excels with features that blend luxury and ruggedness, including charcoal Nappa leather seats with heated/ventilated options, a premium Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and multi-zone climate control for ultimate comfort. The Designo package adds bespoke touches like maple wood trim and embroidered headrests, creating an opulent cabin. Off-road prowess is legendary, with triple locking differentials (front, center, rear) allowing manual engagement for maximum traction, a low-range transfer case, and high ground clearance (8.3 inches)—enabling it to conquer mud, rocks, or snow where most SUVs falter. The permanent AWD system distributes power intelligently, while the solid axle setup ensures durability. Safety includes ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags, with the boxy frame providing excellent visibility.

In performance, the G55 AMG outperforms competitors in the luxury midsize SUV category with its naturally aspirated V8, delivering more raw power than the 2003 BMW X5 4.6is (340 hp, similar torque but less off-road capable) or Porsche Cayenne Turbo (450 hp, faster but higher maintenance). It’s more rugged than the Lexus GX 470 (less power at 235 hp but similar luxury), prioritizing off-road dominance over on-road agility, as seen with its triple-lockers for superior capability in extreme terrain. Compared to the Land Rover Range Rover (282 hp, luxurious but less reliable), the G-Wagon offers superior build quality and longevity, with owners reporting 300,000+ miles. The G55’s acceleration and torque make it fun for highway blasts, though its 5,500-lb weight and truck-like handling mean it’s not as nimble as modern crossovers.

The G55 AMG and Designo Package

The G55 AMG represents Mercedes-AMG’s high-performance take on the G-Class wagon, transforming the utilitarian military-derived SUV into a powerhouse. AMG upgraded the standard G500’s 5.0L V8 to a 5.4L version, boosting output from 292 hp to 349 hp while adding sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and distinctive styling like flared fenders and side exhaust pipes for a more aggressive stance. This made the G55 quicker and more capable off-road, with enhanced torque for towing and climbing. The AMG difference lies in its hand-built engine, bespoke tuning, and focus on performance luxury, setting it apart from base G-models as a “super G-Wagon” for enthusiasts.

As a Designo edition, this G55 features Mercedes’ customization program, which entailed premium materials and exclusive options not available on standard models. Designo included hand-stitched Nappa leather, unique color combinations like the Silver Metallic with piano black accents, and interior trims like maple wood for a bespoke feel. Exterior enhancements such as the piano black fender flares, bumpers, guards, grille, and light surrounds add sophistication, while the black roof and wheels create a stealthy aesthetic. Designo elevated the G55 from rugged to refined, increasing rarity and value—often commanding 20-30% premiums at resale even at higher miles.