The 'G' on your manual shifter stands for Gelände, a German term for 'terrain.' This is fitting, as the 'G' gear is an ultra-low gear designed for enhanced traction off-road. But what's the story behind this intriguing gear? Well, it's all about innovation and pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
The connection to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is clear, as the name 'G-Wagon' comes from 'Geländewagen,' meaning 'all-terrain vehicle.' However, the car most associated with a 'G' gear is the iconic Porsche 959. First appearing in 1985, the 959 had a low 'G' gear, a nod to its rally racing roots and a legal loophole that allowed Porsche to squeeze the car through noise regulations.
You see, some countries had strict noise regulations, and the 959's lowest forward gear couldn't pass volume tests. Porsche, being the innovative company they are, engineered a transmission for the highest level of pro rallying competition, including an extra-low and extra-loud first gear. This gear, labeled 'G,' was a key feature of the 959's homologation process, allowing it to compete in the World Rally Championship's Group B series.
The 959's engineering was groundbreaking, with an electronically controlled multi-mode four-wheel-drive system and electrohydraulically adjustable suspension. These features, along with the rear-mounted flat-six engine, made the 959 an incredible on-road performer. It was so advanced that driving it felt like stepping into science fiction.
However, the 959's time in the spotlight was short-lived. The WRC dropped Group B in 1987 due to safety concerns, and Porsche had only built 292 street-legal 959s, with 200 needed for homologation. Despite its short life, the 959 remains a celebrated innovation in automotive history, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the 1980s.
In my opinion, the 'G' gear on a manual shifter is a reminder of the innovative spirit that drives automotive engineering. It's a testament to the creativity of engineers and the desire to push boundaries, even if it means navigating legal loopholes. The 959's story is a fascinating one, and it's a shame that its time in the WRC was cut short. Nonetheless, it remains an iconic car that continues to inspire and intrigue enthusiasts to this day.
