There are unkillable machines, and then there are the ones that will survive a nuclear blast and tsunami at the same time. This 1967 Mercedes-Benz LA 911 falls squarely in the second category, as it looks like an absolute beast of a truck that combines a few unicorn features: 4WD, a naturally-aspirated OM352 diesel engine, and zero electronic features aside from the most basic of functions (i.e., headlights). While incredibly popular overseas, we rarely see these trucks stateside and with 4WD. Find it here on craigslist for $25,000.
Yes, that’s a lot of dough for an old working rig like this, but the key is in remembering that this isn’t like the random old moving rig or highway department cab you’d see over the years. The short-bonnet design is the universal look for these world-class workhorses, but the “A” in its nomenclature – “LA” – stands for Allrad, which is another way of saying all of the wheels are driven. I can’t confirm whether these were officially imported to the states, but I don’t think they were. Regardless, the asking price makes sense when you consider these are equally sought-out by both heavy-duty commercial users and overlanders alike.
Yes, the overland crowd will slap a box on the back and build a home, all while driving one of the most unkillable machines to roam the roads. The interior is bare-bones, so don’t come here expecting the comforts of home. There’s not even a passenger front seat in this truck, so good luck if you’re the type of person who needs to be cossetted in the cabin. These were used by the German border patrol when new, so I’m guessing this truck was released from government duty and snatched up via a surplus auction of some kind overseas.
Mileage is low, with the seller noting it shows just 48,669 on the clock (78,325 KMs, technically). This also lines up with the notion that it’s ex-military, or perhaps even just ex-government service of some kind. The seller notes from an equipment standpoint, it features “…5 speed transmission, 3 speed aux. transmission, 2 speed transfer case giving a total of 30 speeds forward and 6 speeds in reverse.” That’s like the Unimogs, which usually have a similar assortment of gear combinations. Regardless, this truck is meant for heavy-duty work or off-road excursions that cross terrain your Jeep has nightmares about. The OM352 engine likely makes around 126 b.h.p. and 277 lb-ft of torque, so plan your trips accordingly to how much of it is paved versus unpaved. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Mike F. for the find.
No shortage of gear selections to climb that hill ahead 👍
Gee for $25K not worth the seller’s effort to even wipe off the dash.
The front grill must be in case it hits a felled sequoia or a mammoth.
I can see Hans and Franz 2 mannin’ this rig, “Richtung Osten und abwarts”, ( East bound and down) and theoretically, it may have 30 speeds, but like a tractor, not all are used. The AWD and 5×3 is probably for off road, and the 2 speed rear for road use. Typically, with a 7:56 axle ratio, even with the 2 speed, you won’t get any tickets. The front bumper is aftermarket, and suggests an off road application, say forestry dept. or “Landesforstverwaitungen”. I’m certainly convinced this is the “Mack” truck of Germany.
disclaimer: The reason I use German phrases is I think it’s an awesome language, and somehow feel bad for all the negativity they’ve endured.
I had the hardest time translating that but it seems to mean “forest service”.
German language concatenates words into a single long noun that you can pick apart, yes?
I guess my grandmother from the “old country” was correct when I rode my bicycle off a wall and she said “Gutt in himmel! Du bist a bladion!”.
Better to hear “Komm essen. “
Howard, Jeff said two speed transfer case NOT 2 speed differentials!!! And YES it is an all purpose off road vehicle. I like the Aussie “Bull Bar” with a winch on the front. Other than mounting a camper trailer on the back to do some serious off road exploring, about all this is good for is a western rancher to check fence lines and haul feed to remote cows.
Dear Howard! You are right on all counts. German is the language of culture and civilization. Until 1945 it was normal for doctors, scientists and academics to speak it; to study at Heidelberg University was the ultimate intelectual achievement. Most scientific research was printed in German and it was second to none in the sciences and even musical notation..Until 1917 25% of all Texans spoke it at home, Chicago and Cleveland were called ¨the largest German cities outside Germany¨and there were hundreds of German language newspapers in the USA. As far as what we have endured goes, it is unprecetented in history and does not bode well for the future. As far as you go, you are aprince. Thank you for your kindness. GF
I grew up in Venezuela and these are indeed unkillable! Painted in garish colors, exceeding the GVWR by 5X, and traversing the worst “roads” you can imagine, they have been in use for 40+ years under some of the worst conditions you can imagine, across industries (oil & gas, agriculture, general transportation). Easy (albeit expensive) to maintain and rebuild, too. I don’t believe I’ve ever seen on of these in the US in 32 years so I’m assuming this was a gray market import; I’m impressed someone was able to snag it away from Third World buyers that scour sales sites for these and usually pounce!
My Aunt Joan (RIP) took to truck driving after the kids were grown. Tough old gal she was. I recall her saying how she didn’t care for MB trucks. That their axles seemed to be bolted directly to the frame. Interesting vehicle to see here. The comments are sure to educate.
Finally! A 911 I might be able to afford.
Is that a gun turret on the roof?
Having worked with (not for) Mercedes-Benz for 25 years, I can tell you that this truck was never sold new in the U.S. While it will go anywhere, it is slow and uncomfortable. It would work well off-road but not on asphalt. Today’s RVs are designed to use roads to take you to and from your off-road site; this one isn’t. It could be useful to a logging operation, a ski area, or a large ranch, though today’s alternate vehicles are way more user-friendly. That said, I’d love to see it restored and displayed at car shows!