Press Release
Mercedes-Benz Guard model range: special-protection versions of three Mercedes model series
- S-Guard: High or Highest-Protection versions of S 500 and S 600
- E-Guard: E 320 and E 500 in B4 High-Protection version
- G-Guard: G 500 available in B6 or B7 Highest-Protection version
From the 2003 model year, Mercedes-Benz customers have a choice of S-Class, E-Class and G-Class models with factory-integrated special-protection features.
Topping the Mercedes-Benz Guard range are two saloons from the technologically and stylistically enhanced S-Class family which features many innovative, trend-setting features. The Stuttgart-based car maker offers the S 500 V8 Saloon (long-wheelbase version) and the new top model, the twelve-cylinder S 600, with factory-integrated special-protection features rated to the European B4 (High-Protection) or B6/B7 (Highest-Protection) resistance levels. Depending on the degree of protection selected, the bodies of these vehicles, which have been tested successfully by independent organisations, can withstand attack by pistols, rifles, hand grenades or explosive charges.
The factors contributing to the extremely high degree of protection offered by these vehicles include armour made from state-of-the-art materials such as glass/plastic combinations and high-strength special steel (High Protection - B4) or special steel combined with plastic (Highest Protection - B6/B7). Externally, the S-Guard special-protection models are virtually indistinguishable from a standard S-Class Saloon.
With its newly developed bi-turbo power plant which has an output of 368 kW/500 hp, the S 600 -- the top Mercedes-Benz Guard model -- is the most powerful saloon in its class. The twelve-cylinder engine develops its maximum torque of 800 Nm from just 1800 rpm. The S 500 is equipped with Mercedes-Benz's proven 225 kW/306 hp V8 unit.
E-Guard: two special-protection versions of the new E-Class
Mercedes-Benz is expanding its range of internationally proven special-protection models with the addition of two saloons from the new E-Class family. The Guard versions of the E 320 and E 500 are equipped with factory-integrated protection features rated to the European B4 resistance level which allow them to resist attack by large-calibre revolver ammunition.
In addition to the extensive protection provided for the occupant compartment, the standard equipment of the four-seater E-Guard ELEGANCE-line models includes multi-layer glass with polycarbonate sheeting on the interior which also provides splinter protection, power windows for the front doors as well as roll-up sun screens for the rear side windows. The chassis has been specially upgraded and also features 245/45 R 17 tyres with run-flat characteristics and tyre pressure monitoring as well as 13-hole light-alloy wheels.
The engine of the E-Guard E 320 has an output of 165 kW/224 hp while the five-litre, eight-cylinder unit in the E-Guard E 500 develops 225 kW/306 hp.
Mandatory special equipment in the new E-Guard saloons includes the AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) electronically controlled air suspension (standard in the E 500 V8 model), rear sidebags and an electrically operated blind for the rear window. Power windows for the front passenger door and rear doors, an intercom and a heated windscreen are some of the items available from the range of optional extras for the E-Class. Like all the other Mercedes Guard vehicles, the new High-Protection E-Class Saloons benefit from the Stuttgart-based company's comprehensive ex-works manufacturer's warranty.
G-Guard: special-protection Cross-Country Vehicle with a powerful V8 engine
Mercedes-Benz also offers customers a choice of two special-protection versions of the G 500 rated to European resistance level B6 or B7. This Cross-Country Vehicle is equipped with a powerful V8 engine which develops its maximum torque of 456 Nm at a mere 2800 rpm and has a maximum output of 218 kW/296 hp.
At a glance: the current Mercedes-Benz Guard model range
A long tradition of Mercedes-Benz special-protection vehicles
- First special-protection vehicle produced in 1928
It was more than 74 years ago that a W 08/460 "Nürburg" model became the first Mercedes-Benz to be converted into a special-protection vehicle at the factory. The 770 K, which once provided protection befitting the status of Japanese Emperor Hirohito, followed it in 1930. Today the 770 K can be seen in the Mercedes Museum in Untertürkheim. Since 1964, numerous models have been developed for the task of protecting people or valuables exposed to special danger, ranging from the legendary Mercedes-Benz 600 through the 280 SE 3.5 to the G-Class Cross-Country Vehicle.
History of Mercedes passenger cars with special-protection features:
