Mercedes Built A Truck That Embarrasses The Ford Raptor Without Needing 700 HP

Mercedes-Benz built the Unimog on a different philosophy than typical American off-road trucks like the Ford F-150 Raptor. Where most pickups chase capability by adding horsepower, rigidity and suspension travel, the article describes Mercedes engineers intentionally designing flex into the chassis for “walking pace” work. Instead of relying only on stiffness, traction is returned to the driver using mechanical locks. The piece contrasts this with the modern American off-roader formula built around a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame, tall gearing, and electronic traction systems. It cites Raptor specifications including 13.1 inches of ground clearance with a 37-inch tire package, plus approach, departure and breakover angles. It also notes the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392’s gearing concept and electronic traction features. For the Unimog, the chassis is designed to twist diagonally up to 600 mm (about 23 inches) across the frame through torsionally flexible construction, torque-tube technology, and three-point engine and body mounting.