1996 Mercedes-Benz G 36 AMG “Lang” | Global Icons: The Patina Collective
1996 Mercedes-Benz G 36 AMG “Lang” | Global Icons: The Patina Collective
Chassis No. WDB46323117100281
The Mercedes-Benz G 36 AMG was among the earliest AMG-tuned Geländewagen models developed in the pre-merger era, following AMG's early cooperation with Mercedes-Benz in the mid-1990s. Conceived primarily for the Japanese market-where displacement-based taxation favored smaller-capacity six-cylinder engines over larger V8s-it followed the ultra-limited 500 GE 6.0 AMG and combined off-road utility with AMG performance character. Produced between 1994 and 1997, it is believed that approximately 120 examples were built, the vast majority delivered new to Japan, making it one of the rarest AMG G-Wagens of the period.
At its core was a 3.6-liter M104 dual-overhead-cam inline-six derived from the E 36 and C 36 AMG, enlarged to 3,605 cc with extensive internal revisions. According to the period brochure, AMG's engine featured motorsport-inspired upgrades including revised pistons, camshafts, intake and exhaust systems, a balanced crankshaft assembly, and bespoke engine management calibration. The result was 258 horsepower and over 272 lb-ft of torque from just 1,500 rpm, delivering strong low-end performance with the refinement expected of the Geländewagen.
This 1996 Mercedes-Benz G 36 AMG was ordered new in Japan as a left-hand drive example equipped with the rear folding seats in the luggage compartment. The car is finished in Brilliant Silver Metallic and fitted with 18-inch AMG Monoblock I wheels. The Black-upholstered interior features a leather steering wheel and shifter and is accented with Burred Walnut veneers. In addition to the AMG enhancements, features include power windows, heated seats, and power sunroof. Desirable modifications include Pioneer head unit with Apple CarPlay, rear mounted subwoofer, and carbon fiber wheel arch extensions.
The G 36 AMG's Japanese clean CarVX Report reveals a first registration in June 1996. Numerous inspections record ownership location in Japan and mileage until 2021. Exported from Japan in 2021 this powerful and rugged four-door "Lang" variant became part of the vaunted Patina Collective in 2023.
Recent service work conducted on the rare AMG while in the collection includes a transmission service and a new water pump with fresh coolant. Offered with 194,256 kilometers or approximately 120,705 miles, this rare G 36 AMG Lang is offered with its original set of Japanese-language books, clean CarVX Report, and service records from its time in Japan and at The Patina Collective.