1994 Benz Fetches Ksh3.8 Million During Auction

The G-Wagen Mercedes-Benz
The G-Wagen Mercedes-Benz that was on Thursday, May 18, 2023, auctioned out for Ksh3.8 million.
Photo
Pamurick Show

Limuru town on Thursday, May 18, witnessed a rare celebration that was laced with a liberal dose of shock after a 29-year-old car fetched Ksh3.8 during a routine auction exercise.

It began with a simple bid, in which a willing buyer shouted Ksh20,000 to the company representative who was leading to auction exercise.

Soon the Ksh20,000 bid was overtaken by other bidders who shouted higher amounts of money, but no one expected the visibly old car to fetch Ksh3.8 million.

"This is shocking, especially, due to the fact that this car is almost three decades old, and yet many of these bidders seem to be very much interested in it," Content creator, Patrick Show wondered.

An image of the green Mercedes Benz G-Wagon in Kericho, Kenya
An image of groceries the green Mercedes Benz G-Wagon in Kericho, Kenya
Mwagodi

The G-Wagen Mercedes-Benz had an initial reserve price of Ksh20,000, and without a doubt, more than ten bidders were willing to part with a considerable amount of money to have it.

The auction which was conducted by auctioneers licensed by the Kenya Auctioneers Association, attracted more than fifty bidders seeking a chance to buy the twelve cars, including the G-Wagon.  

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also known as the G-Wagon, is a luxury SUV that has been in production since 1979. It is known for its boxy styling, off-road capability, and luxurious interior. The G-Class is one of the most expensive SUVs on the market, but it is also one of the most iconic.

The G-Class is available in a variety of models, including the G550, G63 AMG, and G65 AMG. The G550 is the base model and is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque.

The G63 AMG is a more powerful model that is powered by a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 577 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque.

The G65 AMG is the most powerful model and is powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine that produces 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque.

All G-Class models are equipped with four-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The G-Class can tow up to 7,716 pounds.

The G-Class has a luxurious interior with leather seats, wood trim, and a variety of amenities, including a navigation system, a sunroof, and a premium sound system.

It is a capable off-road vehicle that can handle even the most challenging terrain. It has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, a wading depth of 27.5 inches, and three locking differentials.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a luxury SUV that is known for luxurious interior and iconic styling. It is one of the most expensive SUVs on the market, but it is also one of the most popular.

Two other old Mercedes-Benz cars fetched Ksh2.8 and Ksh3 million respectively, making the Limuru Auction Market one of the most successful in the country.

Photo of Vehicles loaded on a car haulier captured on September 2019
Photo of Vehicles loaded on a car haulier captured on September 2019.
Photo
IndiaMart

Kenya Auctioneers Association outlines the following general conditions and terms for both auctioneers and bidders:

1. Research the auction: Before you attend an auction, it is important to research the auction house and the cars that will be up for sale. You can find information about the auction house and the cars on the auction house's website or by reading reviews online.

2. Register to bid: In order to bid on a car at auction, you will need to register with the auction house. This usually involves providing your name, contact information, and a photo ID.

3. Inspect the cars: Before you bid on a car, it is important to inspect the car carefully. This includes looking for any damage to the car's body, interior, and engine. You can also ask the auction house to provide you with a vehicle history report.

4. Place your bid: Once you have inspected the car and decided that you want to buy it, you can place your bid. Bids are usually placed in increments of 1000 shillings.

5. Win the auction: If your bid is the highest bid when the auction ends, you will win the auction and be the new owner of the car.
Pay for the car. Once you have won the auction, you will need to pay for the car in full. This can be done in cash, by check, or by credit card.

6. Pick up the car: Once you have paid for the car, you can pick it up from the auction house. You will need to provide proof of insurance and registration before you can take the car home.