Motor Trend – 2016 Mercedes-AMG G65 vs 1973 Icon FJ44 – Video

 

The Mercedes G-Class, or Geländewagen, was first introduced to the world in 1979 and has been on sale ever since. The four-wheel-drive G-Wagen features body-on-frame construction, two solid axles, and three mechanically locking differentials. Mercedes tried to replace the G a decade ago with the unibody GL, but G-Wagen sales have only increased since then. The G65 is the first SUV since the 1980s Lamborghini LM002 to feature a V-12 powerplant. Papa G’s big twin-turbo heart pumps out 621hp and a mind-blowing 738 lb-ft of torque. All that power comes with a price: more than $220,000. For the same amount of money, you can also have the Icon FJ44. Based on a 1973 Toyota Land Cruiser — the only original part left is the chassis plate — the FJ44 has been completely reimagined. From its aluminum, powdercoated body panels and Learjet sun visors, to its supercharged 6.2L V-8 and custom Art Morrison frame, no stone has been left unturned, no detail left unfussed with. The question becomes: If you’re going to spend north of $200K, which one is best? Watch as Head 2 Head hosts Jason Cammisa and Jonny Lieberman find out!

2016 Mercedes-AMG G65 Specs:

PRICE AS TESTED:$221,925 (base price: $218,825)

ENGINE TYPE:twin-turbocharged and intercooled SOHC 36-valve V-12, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection

DISPLACEMENT:365 cu in, 5980 cc
Power: 621 hp @ 5300 rpm
Torque: 738 lb-ft @ 2300 rpm

TRANSMISSION:7-speed automatic with manual shifting mode

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 112.2 in
Length: 187.5 in
Width: 73.0 in Height:76. in
Passenger volume: 124 cu ft
Cargo volume: 40 cu ft
Curb weight: 6067 lb
Center-of-gravity height: 29.0 in

C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 5.1 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 12.2 sec
Zero to 140 mph: 28.1 sec
Rolling start, 5-60 mph: 5.6 sec
Top gear, 30-50 mph: 3.1 sec
Top gear, 50-70 mph: 3.8 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 13.6 sec @ 105 mph
Top speed (gov limited): 140 mph
Braking, 70-0 mph: 165 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.58 g

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 11/13 mpg
C/D observed: 10 mpg
*Stability-control-inhibited

1973 Icon FJ44 Specs:

6.2-liter GM E-ROD LS3 V-8 fitted with a Magnuson supercharger. Power is estimated at 540 hp and 495 lb-ft.

In the sprint to 60 mph, the FJ44 needs 5.7 seconds. The quarter mile is over and done with in 14.4 seconds at 93.9 mph (151 km/h).