A bespoke 1977 Mercedes-Benz Unimog, previously belonging to Arnold Schwarzenegger, will soon be up for bids at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona next month.
Known for his stature and preference for sizable vehicles, Schwarzenegger upgraded from his Humvee to this Austrian-engineered behemoth. The Unimog entered his collection not from the outset, but in 2012. By then, it had undergone extensive refurbishments and customizations at the hands of Merex Mertec, a Unimog specialist in Gaggenau, Germany, tailored to the actor and ex-politician’s exacting standards.
Key enhancements include 22-inch wheels equipped with robust Michelin XZL 445/65 tires, an advanced air suspension system, a comprehensive trailer brake system, a protective roll bar, high-performance Hella lighting, and a specially designed bed. A notable addition is Schwarzenegger’s autograph, prominently displayed on the center stack.
Despite the detailed customizations, Schwarzenegger’s tenure with the Unimog was brief. By 2014, it appeared for sale on a German classifieds website.
This short ownership might align with Schwarzenegger’s environmental advocacy, particularly during his governorship in California. The Unimog’s engine, a 6.4-liter inline-6 turbodiesel producing 320 hp, falls short of modern environmental standards. Primarily designed for industrial applications, it meets only Euro 3 emission norms, effective since 2000, which allow significantly higher levels of particulate emissions compared to current European standards.
Post-Schwarzenegger, the Unimog has changed hands multiple times in the United States. It is now presented as lot number 1297 at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction, scheduled for January 20-28.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Schwarzenegger Unimog Auction
What is the model and year of the Mercedes-Benz Unimog owned by Arnold Schwarzenegger?
The model is a 1977 Mercedes-Benz Unimog, which was owned by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Where and when will Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Unimog be auctioned?
The Unimog will be auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson event in Scottsdale, Arizona, scheduled for January 20-28.
Did Arnold Schwarzenegger own the Unimog since it was new?
No, Schwarzenegger acquired the Unimog in 2012, after it was restored and modified by Merex Mertec in Germany.
What are some of the upgrades made to Schwarzenegger’s Unimog?
Upgrades include 22-inch wheels with Michelin tires, air suspension, a trailer brake system, roll bar, Hella lights, and a custom bed. Schwarzenegger’s signature is also featured.
Why did Schwarzenegger sell the Unimog shortly after acquiring it?
It is speculated that the Unimog’s environmental impact, with its 6.4-liter turbodiesel engine that only meets Euro 3 emissions standards, conflicted with Schwarzenegger’s green policies.
More about Schwarzenegger Unimog Auction
- Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Vehicle Collection
- Mercedes-Benz Unimog History
- Barrett-Jackson Auction Schedule
- Euro Emission Standards Explained
- Celebrity-Owned Vehicles at Auction
5 comments
Barrett-Jackson always has the coolest stuff, cant wait to see how much this baby sells for!
kind of ironic how it doesn’t fit with his green policies, a 6.4-liter diesel in this day n age?
the upgrades sound impressive, but not surprised it’s going for auction, who really needs a truck like that?
wow, didnt know Schwarzenegger was into such big vehicles, this Unimog must be a beast!
A true Mercedes classic, but Schwarzenegger’s signature? That’s gonna hike up the price for sure.