Mercedes-Benz LA 1113 B Variomobil Motor Home

Chassis No. 35810210956988

Initially used by the German Federal Police as a mobile water canon for fighting fires, the truck remained in loyal service until it was sold to its first private owner in 2000 with approximately 60,000 kilometers. An extensive refurbishment of the truck took place in 2003, which saw its conversion to a long-distance camper configuration with a premier Variomobil body – one of the world's exclusive brands of motor homes. Following its completion, the camper was only two separate expeditions with eight other campers, which resulted in a total of eight weeks of use over approximately 20,000 kilometers. When not in use, the camper is reported to have been stored inside a heated garage.

Purchasing the vehicle in 2020, the current owner set about renovating the camper to the latest technical specifications and made sure that there is no maintenance backlog. Part of this work included renewing the brake systems and fitting a new clutch. This started with increasing power to 140 kilowatts or approximately 187 horsepower, converting the original five-speed transmission to a MAN 12-speed splitter gearbox, and adjusting the differentials and cardan shafts front and rear for the four-wheel drive system with locking rear differential. This modification allowed for a higher cruising speed of 100 km/h at 1,400 rpm compared to 80 km/h at 2,800 rpm. Multiple other benefits were soon revealed, ranging from decreasing fuel consumption to more pleasant noise levels in the cabin compared with the previous limit. Combining power with efficiency, the new 450 liter fuel tank, complemented by two 20-liter jerry cans, ensures a more than adequate range for adventures.

Improvements to the chassis include converting the wheels to use single 11.00R20 tires on all four corners in 2021. A matching spare can be found on the roof of the cab, and a lifting mechanism has been added for ease of access. While the truck is more than capable of its technically possible 11 ton capacity, it is registered with a 7.49 ton capacity, creating the added benefit of being able to drive the camper with a regular driver's license. For added flexibility when traveling, the camper is equipped with two hitches, with a stranded European ball hitch rated at 3.1 tons and a Rockinger truck hitch rated at 11 tons.

Inside the driving compartment are new gauges and a pair of new, heated air suspension seats with integrated three-point seat belts. There is also a navigation system, exterior mounted sun visors, and an air horn. A convenient passage has been added to connect with the rear passenger compartment via a sliding door. The interior features genuine cherry wood fittings and all the amenities one could wish for at home. There is a seating area, a kitchen with a gas stove (renewed in 2020), and numerous storage cabinets. As a final complement, there is a spacious wet room, including a toilet, shower, and washbasin complemented by an outdoor shower. Sleeping accommodations are covered with two Tempur-Pedic mattresses at the rear of the camper in their own room sperate from the rest of the interior space.

Not for rustic camping, the comfort and convenience are supported by a 300 liter freshwater tank and a 200 liter wastewater holding tank with external flushing and emptying valves protected from frost by a double floor. Two 11 kilogram propane gas tanks provide an ample gas supply. Electrical power is supplied from three 180 watt solar panels with an inverter to support all of the electrical demands from the air conditioning to lighting. A Wi-Fi network has been integrated into the camper including a Wi-Fi enabled television. Other amenities include an awning, a stereo system with external speakers, an alarm system, a high security door fitting, an air conditioning unit, a Webasto diesel-fired water heating system, external power outlets, an additional alloy stairway, and a 'Tecklift' electric lift on the back for two E-bikes weighing up to 100 kilograms.

Displaying just over 87,000 kilometers or approximately 54,000 miles, this camper has the added distinction of being offered with “H plates,” allowing for ease of travel thanks to no emissions restrictions in city centers and a lower yearly registration fees and taxes. With everything in mind, this well-appointed 1974 Mercedes-Benz LA 1113 B Variomobil Motor Home is a delightful way to satisfy its new owner's wanderlust.