ICM 1/35 Unimog S 404 # 35137

In addition to the standard truck versions of the Unimog S, there was quite common among army cars a body- van ('Koffer') variant.

Some 16,000 vehicles were fitted with these body variants, and they had the longest service life among Unimog S series truck.

Most of these vehicles were used as radio communication machines.

They were easily distinguished by their special type of hatches, antenna nests on the roof, and a complex large antenna on the rear wall of the body.

Internal equipment included various radio stations such as EM 25, SEM 25 or SEM 25.

The colouring of the radios was standard for the Bundeswehr, initially it was the standard olive colour RAL 6014, which in the 1980s was gradually replaced by a tricolor camouflage variant.

The car was popular in the Bundeswehr and was used by various units until the late 1990s

The Unimog S 404 is a rugged and versatile off-road vehicle that was produced by Mercedes-Benz from the late 1950s to the early 1980s.

It is part of the Unimog family, which stands for "UNIversal-MOtor-Gerät" (universal motor device).

The Unimog S 404 was primarily designed for military purposes but also found civilian applications.

It gained popularity for its exceptional off-road capabilities and robust construction. It was used by various armed forces worldwide and was known for its reliability in challenging terrains.

The Unimog S 404 featured a ladder frame chassis and a high ground clearance, allowing it to navigate through rough and uneven terrain.

It was equipped with a powerful gasoline engine and had a selectable four-wheel drive system, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road operations.

The vehicle's suspension system, with portal axles, provided excellent axle articulation and increased ground clearance.

The Unimog S 404 had a range of body configurations, including a cargo bed, troop carrier, and various specialized variants such as ambulances, radio vehicles, and mobile workshops.

Its versatility made it adaptable to a wide range of military and civilian tasks.

In terms of design, the Unimog S 404 had a distinctive appearance with its rounded cab and flat, boxy cargo area.

The cab accommodated the driver and, depending on the variant, a small number of passengers.

While the Unimog S 404 is no longer in production, it has left a lasting legacy as a capable and reliable off-road vehicle.

It is still sought after by off-road enthusiasts and collectors due to its robustness, off-road prowess, and unique design.