2008 Mercedes-Benz Atego 1017A 4x4 :: Featured Classified

I was recently listening to Global Traces on the Overland Journal Podcast discuss their long-term overlanding trip in a MAN HX60. It’s a fascinating conversation and provides insight into the many benefits of traveling with a larger rig. One common misconception is that running an expedition truck has to be exorbitantly expensive, when in reality it can be quite the opposite. First, it’s important to distinguish that these legitimate rolling homes are largely self-contained, and to a degree self-sustaining. If you live in them full time, you are rent/mortgage free and save on many utility costs and taxes associated with conventional housing, which is a huge savings. The biggest outgoing is fuel, but since many trucks have a huge capacity, you have the ability to strategically refill in the cheapest countries/regions and save hundreds of dollars (for example, I have friends who refuel in Morocco and complete their entire European summer trip on one tank of fuel, which means their cost per mile is around the same as running a generic 4WD where they’re based in the United Kingdom). However, it doesn’t stop there: once at camp, you have the power and amenities to stay in one spot for weeks without even starting the engine. In short, they’re best understood as a budget-friendly home rather than an expensive vehicle, and for working professionals or families, they can enable years of world travel without many of the compromises synonymous with smaller overland builds. To this end, cue today’s 2008 Mercedes-Benz Atego 1017A 4×4 (182,004-kilometers/113,092 miles), which showcases premium modifications and a no-expense-spared, four-season-ready habitat. Crucially, this is not a proof of concept, but an expedition-proven platform that has already traversed four continents, 90 countries, been featured twice on UK TV, and is turnkey ready for your next expedition. At $175,900, it’s remarkable value when you consider that comparable off-the-shelf builds will set you back half a million dollars. Learn more about this pinnacle expedition truck at sommertravelling.com.

From the Seller:

“This is our Mercedes-Benz Atego 1017A 4×4, which has been proven over six years, 90 countries, and across four continents. Expedition history includes the Sahara, Mongolia, Patagonia, Atacama, Uyuni, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon. It has enjoyed the Dakar Rally experience, TV appearances, and a 2024 comprehensive rebuild. The rig is fully self-contained with a kitchen, fixed bed, private bathroom, and shower. We have almost driven around the world. We are currently in Colombia and will finish in Canada in December.”

2008 Mercedes-Benz Atego 1017A 4×4

The 1017A is fitted with a 4.2-liter OM904LA turbocharged diesel motor that produces 168 horsepower and 498 pound-feet of torque (impressive range provided via 380-liter fuel tank). An ultra-dependable motor is matched with impressive capability thanks to 4WD, high and low range, center, rear, and front locking differentials, solid axles, armor, and a heavy-duty lifted suspension. Inside, these rugged backcountry attributes are balanced with the following driver comforts:

Power steering, windows, and locks
Air-conditioning
Cruise control
Retrimmed air ride captain’s chairs
Stereo
Cup holders
Overhead and rear wall storage
USB and 12-volt outlets

Distinguishing Features

Continental R20 tires
Motorcraft expedition body (built in 2020) with roof rack, external storage compartments, rear motorcycle/equipment carrier, folding access steps, and security doors/windows
Freshwater (380-liters), with Doulton filtration and on-demand hot water
Full rebuild and upgrades completed in 2024
Safari hatch (previously used to watch the Dakar Rally)
Motorcraft central tire inflation system
Bathroom with shower
Starlink
Pass-through to cab
Victron house power system with 400 amp-hours of lithium batteries and rooftop solar array
Whisper 3.5 generator
Climate control with Alde furnace and Dometic air-conditioning
Roof rack
Awning