This 1981 Mercedes Benz Unimog U1700 is based on what many consider the most capable of them all, a Series 435. As the flagship in the range, this claimed 14k mile example has a turbodiesel as opposed to the naturally aspirated U1300, plus bigger axles. With a sizable outrigger-equipped crane and a bed that dumps, it’s ready to take on almost any task. Find it here on eBay in Joshua Tree, California with reserve not met.

The one is said to start easily and also run, drive and stop well. It looks like a recent import from the Netherlands based on the Euro plates, but is said to be recently registered and titled in California. Even with just 14k miles on the odometer, the seller notes that it is not cosmetically perfect, which is understandable for a true work truck. You can see some leftover lettering from its previous job.

Like similar examples, this one should have a gearbox with eight speeds forward and another eight in reverse. With no overdrive or high-speed axles, speed is limited to 56 MPH with these tires. Under the angular hood should be a 5.7 liter OM352A six with 168 horsepower and 385 lb. ft. of torque. The cabs on these are a definite improvement over earlier versions as far as comfort and ergonomics, though still house few creature comforts.

The working crane is a Hiab 965 AW, a model that no longer seems to be in production. Online specs note a capacity of almost one-and-a-half tons and a reach of almost 21 feet. The tilting hydraulic bed is listed as eight feet long.

You could keep the crane and have a supremely versatile rig, or sell the accessories and put the proceeds toward making the ultimate off-road expedition vehicle. Either way this thing is cool.