Among off-road legends, some vehicles are made to cross continents, while others are built to conquer them. The Mercedes-Benz Unimog is firmly in the second group. It’s like a Swiss Army knife made from German steel. Still, it’s rare to find one that combines military-level toughness with real comfort for long journeys.
But now, that’s changed.
Parked in the Western Cape and waiting for a discerning adventurer is a vehicle that redefines the concept of the turn-key overlander. This Mercedes-Benz Unimog 416 Doka (Double Cab) is not merely a restoration; it is a reincarnation. Priced at R3,050,000, this rig represents a nuts-and-bolts rebuild that spares no expense, combining Teutonic engineering with South African overlanding ingenuity.
The Heart of the Beast
This build features the well-known Mercedes OM352 diesel engine. It’s not about speed, but about reliability and strength – famous for running on very little and climbing steep terrain. The engine has been carefully serviced and restored, making it as good as new.
The Unimog’s new tyres enhance its presence. For long journeys, it offers a 250-litre diesel tank and 80 litres in jerry cans, giving extended range off the beaten path.
The Alu-Cab Pedigree
What sets this Unimog apart from a typical military model is its living space. The owner has chosen Alu-Cab, a well-known South African brand, to create a top-quality setup.
The Alucabin, originally for the US market, is more than a tent; it’s a roomy, button-operated shelter you can stand up in, offering comfort rarely found in overlanders.
Interior Refinement and Body Reinforcing
This Doka cab is reinforced, soundproofed, and restored on the inside with custom padding and carpeting for a quieter, more comfortable drive.
The seats are designed for comfort on long trips, with two leather seats in front and a split bench in the back. The cockpit uses a Land Cruiser console for extra storage, a UHF radio, shelves for gear, and holders for an iPad and two phones. There’s also a rear-view camera for easier driving, a safe for valuables, and air-conditioning to keep cool in hot weather.
A Kitchen for the Culinary Nomad
Travelling often centres around cooking and relaxing. This Unimog has two kitchen areas. Inside the cabin, there’s a washbasin and a two-burner stove for use on windy nights.
Since most overlanding in South Africa is done outside, the vehicle also has a full outdoor kitchen. It comes with a fold-out gas stove, a slide-out sink with hot and cold water, and a side table. Food stays fresh in a 90-litre fridge/freezer.
Water and Utilities
Having enough water is essential for remote travel. This vehicle carries 300 litres of fresh water, 100 litres in Alu-Cab tanks on the bulkhead and 200 litres in a tank under the chassis to keep the centre of gravity low.
Comfort is ensured by a Newport Marine gas heater and a marine fan, keeping the cabin at the right temperature. Hot showers are provided by a gas geyser system, using large external gas bottles and a dedicated Alu-Cab shower cubicle on the side of the truck.
Ready for the Long Haul
The electrical system is future-proofed with Lithium-ion batteries, an inverter, and solar panels, ensuring more than enough power. The electrical system uses lithium-ion batteries, an inverter, and solar panels, so you’ll have power even after dark. There’s plenty of storage, including cupboards and drawers, two Alu-Cab roof boxes, and a cupboard for recovery gear. A 20-ton hydraulic winch will recover the vehicle (or move the mountain out of the way), and a hydraulic lift manages the heavy spare wheel at the rear.
Click on the gallery below to view more images and features of this overlander:
The sale also includes a custom heavy-duty trailer built on a Land Rover chassis. It’s fully carpeted, has a large storage box at the front, and provides sleeping space for two more people, making it great for family trips.
This Unimog is in the Western Cape. It’s a true 4×4 for someone who knows that the adventure really starts when the paved road ends.
Contact Seller: Thomas Klei – 076 926 6462
Price: R3,050,000.00*
*Prices were correct at the time of publishing.
To enquire about this vehicle or to book a test drive, please complete the enquiry form below. The owner will respond promptly to all queries.
