1966 Mercedes Benz 404S

Offered here is a truly rare Unimog. We know of but five or six in the US. This gas-powered 404.1 was originally produced by DB in 1966 and delivered with a METZ firefighting body. Unique to this version is the articulated link (pictured) between body and frame. It allows for a stable platform while enabling frame flexure, known as one of the strong points of the 404.1 in broken and rough terrain

This specimen has not been “altered” nor “improved” in any significant fashion. It is the real deal. It seats 8 passengers plus driver. Five of the rear seats fold up to provide storage for all manner of vehicular tools and equipment. Two central rear seats are easily removable for access to the rear compartment. The rear compartment, accessible via side and rear doors, offers an additional 175 cubic feet of space

The P.O. has lovingly retained what appears to be all of the original hardware. This includes:

· Exterior searchlight pedestal and plug socket

· Interior panels, headliner, wood trip ticket and small parts stowage boxes, and aluminum trim strips

· Blue lights and bases

· Martins horn (siren)

Non original items and extra items include:

· Ball trailer hitch

· Steering wheel position indicator (normal to military versions)

· Original engine cover sound deadening insulated cover

· Three tins of spare light bulbs

· Spare windshield wiper

· Backup light

· Original fog lamps

· Three sturdy plastic storage tubs for parts illustrated

Recent work includes:

· Rebuilt carburetor

· Exhaust manifold replacement

· Exhaust system from header to tail pipe

Vehicle needs some TLC as may be seen from the photos including:

· Sheet metal replacement

· Water pump replacement (small weeping at drain hole)

· Corrective electrical wiring

· Possible transmission replacement

This would make an ideal band wagon (room for amps, drums, tuba, harp, generators, etc.). This would make an ideal bug-out, excursion, camping, search + rescue vehicle, you name it. Factory ladder allows for ease of access to roof-mounted equipment: kayaks, inflatables, tires, tents, spare gas cans, surf boards, etc. Your imagination will put this roof to good use.

Vehicle is smog exempt in all 50 states and currently registered in California. Clean title. Shipping can be arranged at buyer’s expense. We would rather see this truck go to someone who appreciates the historic significance, rarity, and off road capability of such a vehicle. A total restoration is encouraged.

Questions gladly responded to. Perhaps these comments will satisfy about 90% of inquirers and address some of the previous questions (really?):

It is gas, not diesel

It has FWD selectable

It is not full time FWD

Six speed manual transmission (stick shift)

Differentials lock manually and selectively

Its rated factory speed is 95 KMH, or about 56MPH

Fuel capacity is 32 gallons