In 1979, the first Gelandewagen, debuted. Built to take over small countries, the über-cool G-wagen is testosterone incarnate. Below we look at the 11 best special versions ever built of this brutishly beautiful Benz.

In the 30 years of production the G-Wagen has only gone through two generations. In 1990, the second Gelandewagen appeared with a slightly freshened look, new safety features, a revised full-time four-wheel drive system and a more luxurious interior.

Despite only being officially on sale in the US since 2002 as the G-Class or G-Series, folks've been importing and selling this vehicle in the US on the grey market for more than two decades.

Because the macho Mercedes is such a capable vehicle, there have been numerous special versions for everyone from the Shah to the Pope. Here are 11 of our favorites.

11.) EDITION30 G.PUR