Arcade Cars, a British start-up, has unveiled its latest creation: the Sojourn. This restomod of the Mercedes-Benz 230 GE aims to combine the charm of a classic G-Class with the practicality of its modern counterpart. The Sojourn is based on the original long-wheelbase G-Class and is available with six or eight seats and a range of petrol and electric powertrains.
The Sojourn’s design is inspired by the former Swiss Army stock, which is why it is exclusively a two-door with a soft-top roof. For the entry-level models, Arcade retains the original 2.3-liter four-pot petrol engine and four-speed automatic gearbox, delivering 125bhp and 140lb ft of torque to all four wheels. However, they also offer the larger 2.8-liter straight six from the contemporary 280 GE, which has been modified to produce 149bhp and 175lb ft of torque.
In addition to the petrol options, Arcade is working on an electric version of the Sojourn in collaboration with Everrati, a British firm known for its EV conversions. Everrati has previously worked on projects such as the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-Benz SL conversions. This electric variant of the Sojourn will provide a sustainable and eco-friendly option for customers.
Inside the Sojourn, Arcade has reupholstered the cabin with a choice of premium leathers or Alcantara. The car also features an infotainment touchscreen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, as well as a new sound system with a concealed subwoofer.
The Sojourn is priced at $130,000 (£100,000), and deliveries are scheduled to begin later this year. The car will make its debut at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours.
Arcade Cars doesn’t stop with the Sojourn. They also offer another model called the Lion, which is an open-top two-seater. This car is sourced from Mercedes 240 GD donor cars from the Singaporean Army stock. Following the Lion, Arcade plans to release the Shadow, an electric conversion of the original F-body Porsche 911 and 912. This model will feature a Tesla Model S motor and Volkswagen batteries, offering fast charging and a range of around 250 miles.
The Sojourn, Lion, and Shadow are part of Arcade Cars’ mission to bring new life to classic vehicles and combine the best of both worlds: the timeless design of the past and the modern technology of the present. With their restomod creations, Arcade aims to provide customers with unique and nostalgic driving experiences, while also embracing sustainability and electric mobility.
