Giving a Classic G-Wagen the Heart It Always Deserved
Some vehicles ask you to slow down. Not because they're incapable - Because they remind you there's no reason to rush. The 1993 Mercedes GD290 was exactly that kind of truck. It climbed mountains long before anyone called them overlanding trails. It crossed continents carrying soldiers, explorers, and aid workers. It wasn't designed to impress anyone at a stoplight. It was designed to arrive, no matter where "there" happened to be.
The only thing it ever lacked was a little more confidence under your right foot. So instead of changing what made this G special. We gave it the heart it always deserved.
Built for adventure. Powered by Cummins. Engineered without compromise.
Project Bam-Mobile began with a clear vision: transform a 1993 Mercedes-Benz GD290 into the expedition vehicle it always had the potential to become. At the heart of the build sits a Cummins R2.8 Turbo Diesel paired with a GM 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission and NP241 transfer case, delivering the reliability, torque, and drivability expected from a modern overland vehicle while preserving the unmistakable character of the classic G-Class. What started as an engine conversion quickly evolved into one of Legacy Overland's most ambitious engineering projects, as nearly every major system beneath the body was redesigned to work together as a single, cohesive package.
Integrating the new powertrain required far more than fabrication alone. The chassis, suspension, steering, cooling, fuel delivery, intercooler plumbing, exhaust, and drivetrain were purpose-built around the Cummins, while rebuilt axles and extensive testing ensured every component performed as though it had always belonged there. Equally transformative was the complete conversion from the original 24-volt electrical system to a modern 12-volt architecture, allowing contemporary electronics including CAN Bus integration, AutoMeter instrumentation, LED lighting, cruise control, push-button start, keyless entry, and GPS-calibrated gauges to operate seamlessly. Inside, the cabin received the same thoughtful attention, blending Porsche grain leather, English Wilton wool carpeting, a custom Alcantara headliner, and carefully restored trim with discreet modern comforts like Apple CarPlay, a backup camera, and climate control.
Project Bam-Mobile was never about changing the identity of the G-Wagen, it was about unlocking everything the platform was capable of becoming. By combining timeless Mercedes-Benz design with thoroughly engineered mechanical systems, modern technology, and handcrafted craftsmanship, Legacy Overland created a one-of-one expedition vehicle that feels every bit as rugged as its heritage suggests, yet refined enough to carry its next generation of adventures with confidence, comfort, and unwavering reliability.
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Powertrain
Cummins R2.8 Turbo Diesel Conversion
GM 6L80 Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
New Process NP241 Transfer Case
Custom Engine Mounts
Custom Transmission Mounts & Crossmember
Custom Transfer Case Integration
Custom Front & Rear Driveshafts
Front-Mounted Intercooler
Custom Cooling System
Custom Transmission Cooler with AN Plumbing
Electric Air Conditioning Compressor
Custom Fuel Delivery & Filtration System
Fully Fabricated Exhaust System
Suspension & Chassis
Re-engineered Suspension Geometry
Adjustable Front Track Bar
Custom Suspension Brackets
Custom Spring Retainers
Front Differential Engineering
Rebuilt Axles
New Bearings, Bushings & Seals
Refreshed Brake System
Extensive Road Testing & Suspension Development
Interior
Porsche Grain Leather Upholstery
English Wilton Wool Carpet
Green Alcantara Headliner
Fully Rebuilt Seats
Restored Door Panels
Refinished Interior Trim
Restored Cargo Area
Custom Legacy Details
Electronics
Complete 24V to 12V Electrical Conversion
Complete Custom Wiring Harness
Cummins ECU Integration
GM Transmission Controller Integration
CAN Bus Communication System
AutoMeter Gauge Package
Custom 3D-Designed Gauge Pods
GPS Speedometer Calibration
Pioneer DMH-W2770NEX Multimedia Receiver
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Backup Camera
Cruise Control
Push-Button Start
Keyless Entry
Modern Power Distribution System
LED Lighting Throughout
Climate Control
Restomod Air Cyclone HVAC System
Electric A/C Compressor
Custom HVAC Ducting
Redesigned Dash Vents
Modern Electronic Climate Controls
Exterior
Canadian Military-Style Brush Guard
Snorkel
LED Headlight Conversion
Headlight Guards
Window Tint
Satin Black Chassis Refinish
Custom Fabricated Brackets & Body Modifications
