The 1977 Mercedes-Benz Unimog 416 Rosenbauer represents a specialized era of emergency response engineering designed for the most punishing terrain. This red fire truck spent 47 years in the service of a Norwegian fire department, where it remained in a heated firehouse. With only 10,875 miles on the odometer, it stands as a remarkably preserved example of German mechanical versatility and Austrian fire-fighting utility.
Norwegian Heritage and Rosenbauer Customization
Rosenbauer upfitted this “Round Cab” era vehicle to meet strict government safety standards in Norway, ensuring its reliability in freezing conditions. It features a side-mounted PTO-driven pump specifically designed for drafting water from natural sources like lakes or rivers. A 200-gallon internal water tank provides immediate response capabilities before a larger supply is secured during a remote emergency.
Modernization efforts include a high-pressure hose reel that allows for rapid deployment upon arrival at a scene. Because it was maintained to rigorous national standards, the mechanical integrity of the rescue equipment remains high for the next owner. Transitioning from active duty to a collector asset, this truck retains the functional soul of a vehicle built to save lives in the mountains.
Extreme Capability and Chassis Engineering
The 1977 Mercedes-Benz Unimog 416 Rosenbauer utilizes a long-wheelbase flexible ladder frame that allows for extreme torsional flex over uneven obstacles. Portal axles with hub reduction provide incredible ground clearance by placing the axle tubes higher than the wheel centers. This design ensures that rocks and debris pass harmlessly underneath while the truck maintains its forward momentum in deep mud.
Inside the cabin, the black interior remains functional and Spartan, reflecting its primary purpose as a heavy-duty service tool. Selectable four-wheel drive and differential locks for both the front and rear can be engaged on the fly for immediate traction. Consequently, the combination of air-over-hydraulic brakes and a robust suspension makes this Unimog a formidable machine for any off-road enthusiast or history buff.
Diesel Power and Off-Road Performance Specs
The heart of this 1977 Mercedes-Benz Unimog 416 Rosenbauer is the OM352 5.7-liter diesel inline six-cylinder engine, known for its incredible durability. This specific unit features the highly desirable “fast axles,” which allow the vehicle to reach road speeds of approximately 60 MPH. This upgrade makes it far more practical for modern travel than standard low-geared models while retaining its legendary low-speed climbing torque.
Summary of a Portal Axle Survivor
The 1977 Mercedes-Benz Unimog 416 Rosenbauer remains an iconic symbol of utility that transcends the typical definition of a truck. By combining decades of climate-controlled storage with a low-mileage diesel powertrain, it offers a level of preservation rarely seen in fire-fighting equipment. It is a definitive example of Mercedes-Benz over-engineering, ready to tackle a new life as a promotional tool or a unique addition to a private collection.
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Source: mecum.com
