MUDRAT wrote:The Hummer put me off for a few reasons: 1, it's made in the USA (the G is made in Austria); 2, it's very very wide. Actually the USMC are phasing out their HMMWV in favour of the IFAV (that's Marine speak for G-wagen). There is also a good chance the Australian Defence Force will be replacing their Land Rovers with G-wagens too under Operation Overlander.
I wouldn't put money on that assumption just yet. (ADF to buy G)
Although the ADF put together very rigorous, detailed and comprehensive evaluation programs when buying new major equipment, very often the decision is made on political grounds rather than data from these evaluations. Therefore, the decision has to be benificial to our American, British and Canadian political relationships and also within marginal electorates where the decision could sway votes.
However, the 110 Land Rovers will be with us for some time yet.
The ADF tested the G-Wagon when project perentine (sp?) was conducted which bought the 110 into service. It (the G-Wagon) would have been an excellent choice, as a number of parts were interchangeable with the Unimog, that had just been bought into service. However, an already strong relationship with JRA (Jag - Rover Aust) and the fact that the 110 would have been built at Moorebank (marginal electorate) help get it over the line, even with the inefficient Isuzu donk in it!
However, all this is a bit off subject.
Congrats on the new wagon - I love the G's. I hope to catch up with you and see it in the flesh when we move back to Canberra (hopefully in around 12 months time)
Cheers,
Willie.
Canberra
MY06 Forester XT Luxury
MY05 Pajero Exceed DiD
1975 VW L Bug (1303)