A Puch G from 1995 with 170 HP (125 kW)? That can only be a W 463 with the 300 GE six-cylinder engine! But how did the civilian luxury version get into the Swiss Army? After all, it is well known that the armed forces prefer the rustic W 461 with its moderate power. Lorinser Classic from Germany can shed light on this mystery. “A while ago, we took on a larger batch of Puch Gs from the Swiss Army,” explains Marcus Lorinser. Since 2006, he has been the Managing Director of the company in Waiblingen, Germany, in the third generation. Some of these vehicles were sold on in their original state while others were turned into various restomods. “We always like to try something new,” explains Lorinser. After models with a new look and some even with special vehicle bodies, including a motorhome, it is now time for the first performance boost.
While the “Sportservice Lorinser” in-house tuning division is responsible for electronically boosting modern turbocharged engines, the elderly M 102 naturally aspirated engine required somewhat heavier tools. But this is where the benefit of having been a Mercedes dealership for several decades comes into play. Lorinser is also one of only 46 Mercedes-Classic Partners in Germany. This was an easy way to prove that Lorinser has not forgotten how to do a little traditional tuning. The capacity was increased from 2,297 to 2,900 ccm – practically top league for a four-cylinder engine. 54 horses were added to the original 116 HP (85 kW) of the engine, which now boasts an impressive 280 Nm. A 4-speed automatic transmission takes care of the gear changes. This allows for perfect cruising, while resting comfortably on the newly upholstered and recovered seats. The new wooden steering wheel completes the stylish interior.
Of course Lorinser Classic did not stop at the “inner values”, as a glance at the immaculate bodywork proves. It was painted in matt Arabian Gray, including the headlight bezels, and sports a completely new top made of black cloth. Any residue from former army maneuvers was blasted from the underbody with dry ice, followed by an application of sealant. After all, this prime example of an off-road vehicle has only 110,000 kilometers under its belt and the engine and many other parts are as good as new after the overhaul.
The former army vehicle also received a small, but stylish modernization makeover. In addition to LED main headlights with protective grilles, the mechanics installed a towbar which can handle an impressive 3.5 tons. Wheel spacers and fender flares in combination with 16-inch offroad steel wheels from DOTZ 4×4 give the vehicle a solid stance on the road. This is complemented by all-terrain tires from BFGoodrich. The many special features and the excellent condition of this low-mileage, one-of-a-kind car add up to a selling price of 64,500 euros. For those who already own a G and are interested in the comprehensive engine conversion: Including complete overhaul and a new catalytic converter unit, this should come to around 20,000 euros.
Details and order addresses at https://sportservice.lorinser.com/
