Dylan Icard
August 12, 2025
This 1997 AMG 36 G Wagon is a rare pre-merger Japanese short wheelbase with low miles, flawless blue metallic paint, and an analog, all-leather interior. A collector’s dream with the M104 3.6L inline-six AMG engine, ready to drive and enjoy.
This 1997 AMG 36 short wheelbase G Wagon is a true collector’s piece. Imported from Japan, it has low miles, all original Japanese placards, and flawless blue metallic paint. Maintained inside a gentleman’s collection, it requires nothing and is ready to drive.
Despite its age, the AMG 36 is peppy and zippy, easily giving a G500 a run for its money. Powered by the M104 3.6L inline-six AMG engine, it delivers smooth, strong performance with an effortless 60 mph cruise. Short wheelbase handling makes it fun and engaging on the road.
The early 463 interior is fully analog, with real wood and leather surfaces. With thin door panels and centrally located controls, the cabin feels wider and more spacious than later models. Minimal electronics make it easy to drive and maintain, providing a tactile and regal experience.
In the 1990s, AMG was independent of Mercedes and imported G Wagons to Japan. This truck represents the pre-merger AMG era, modified from a G320 into a G36 by AMG’s tuning expertise. AMG increased the motor displacement, upgraded tuning, and added signature squared-off exhaust tips and mono-block wheels.
This truck features perfect blue metallic paint and classic AMG styling touches, including 90s-era paint squiggles on the spare tire carrier. The body and interior are preserved exactly as they came from Japan, providing a true time capsule experience.
Under the hood, this M104 inline-six AMG is smooth, reliable, and runs like glass. Features like the AMG-specific intake differentiate it from non-AMG models. Minimal modifications have been made — just a Continental stereo for Bluetooth — keeping the vehicle authentic.
Pre-merger AMG and Brabus were competitors, both producing 3.6L tuned engines. AMG built their own motors with unique intake and tuning for snap and performance, while Brabus used different stroke and intake configurations. Both deliver similar horsepower and driving experience, but the AMG 36 remains a rarer collector’s model.
Pre-merger AMG and Brabus were competitors, both producing 3.6L tuned engines. AMG built their own motors with unique intake and tuning for snap and performance, while Brabus used different stroke and intake configurations. Both deliver similar horsepower and driving experience, but the AMG 36 remains a rarer collector’s model.
AMG was the sole importer of G Wagons to Japan in the 1990s, offering both G320 and AMG 36 variants. This specific truck is an Europa spec import, providing an interesting piece of global automotive history. Original Japanese lettering and AMG placards remain intact, preserving its authenticity.
Well-preserved, low mileage, and aesthetically perfect, this 1997 AMG 36 G Wagon is ready for its next owner. It combines analog luxury, heritage AMG tuning, and timeless G-Wagon style, making it a standout collector vehicle that is just as fun to drive today as it was in the 1990s.
Get in touch with Joe Gocher and the team at Alliance Auto Care—we’ll get your truck squared away the right way.