Heuliez Intruder classic cars for sale

History of the Heuliez Intruder

The Heuliez Intruder was developed specifically for the 1996 Paris Motor Show as a showcase of Heuliez’s daring approach to automotive innovation. Using the sturdy underpinnings of the Mercedes-Benz G320, Heuliez transformed the classic off-roader into a pioneer of convertible SUVs. With a 3.2-litre inline-six engine and permanent four-wheel drive, the Intruder kept the robust mechanics and differential locks from the donor vehicle. However, what set it apart was its fully electric, folding metal roof—a remarkable technical achievement for its time. With the push of a button, the Intruder seamlessly switched between an off-road coupé and a roadster in about 30 seconds. Only one original concept car was ever built, painted in a range of colours including Mercedes silver, white, and red.

Model Range and Legacy

The Heuliez Intruder has no traditional line-up or generations, as the project remained a one-off prototype. The only vehicle created by Heuliez itself exists today as a testament to the forward-thinking capacity of the French coachbuilder. However, OPAC later produced five coupé-only vehicles, branded as the 'Contender', based on this concept. There is no direct predecessor or follow-up to the Intruder within Heuliez’s portfolio, standing as a singular experiment in SUV convertible design. It anticipated trends only realised in mass production nearly a decade later with vehicles like the Ferrari California.

Special Features and Highlights of the Intruder

The Heuliez Intruder’s most notable feature is its fully electric, retractable metal roof—unprecedented at the time and only seen in mainstream production much later. Its combination of a robust Mercedes G320 drivetrain, authentic off-road capabilities (with retained differential locks), and luxury convertible technology made it a true outlier. Moreover, the execution of the roof system inspired solutions later applied on vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz SLK, also introduced in 1996 but as a roadster. A limited number of derivatives were introduced as coupés by OPAC, further highlighting its rare status among collector vehicles.

Technical Data for Heuliez Intruder

Special Editions and Rarities

Only one original Heuliez Intruder prototype was built. OPAC later produced five coupé-only derivatives called 'Contender'. These vehicles are considered highly exclusive due to their minimal production numbers and are distinguished by their unique configuration and design heritage.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to the singular nature and prototype status of the Heuliez Intruder, there are no widespread reports of common issues. However, as with any concept or ultra-low volume car, potential concerns would centre around the bespoke roof mechanism, the integration of Mercedes components, and the lack of readily available spare parts. Routine Mercedes-Benz G320 mechanical maintenance applies to the drivetrain and chassis.

Engine, Transmission and Handling

Powered by Mercedes’ respected 3.2-litre inline-six engine and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, the Intruder retains the proven off-road ability and robust handling of the G320. Differential locks and permanent all-wheel drive made it competent off the beaten path, while the innovative folding roof system added versatility for cruising. As a prototype, exact performance figures are scarce, but expectations mirror those of a G320 with added weight from the unique roof system. Given only one prototype and five OPAC coupé Contenders exist, each unit is exceptional. Their technical set-up mirrors the Mercedes G320 for powertrain, paired with the rare electric retractable roof.

Interior, Comfort and Exterior Design

Taking clear design cues from Mercedes-Benz models of the mid-1990s, the Intruder’s exterior blended classic G-Class ruggedness with avant-garde convertible technology. The most distinct feature remains the fully electric metal roof, seamlessly integrated and operated within seconds. The show car was presented in multiple colours—Mercedes silver, white, and red—showcasing its adaptability. Inside, the vehicle maintained much of the luxury and functional simplicity associated with the G-Class, coupled with bespoke elements crafted by Heuliez to fit the unique convertible concept.

Other Noteworthy Aspects

Heuliez’s expertise in special vehicle construction shines through in the Intruder. Known for inventive design and prototype work for major brands, Heuliez leveraged its background in complex roof mechanisms and tailor-made vehicle solutions. The Intruder embodies French coachbuilding’s spirit of daring experimentation, combined with proven German engineering.

Summary

The Heuliez Intruder is a unique French concept vehicle based on the Mercedes-Benz G320, developed for the 1996 Paris Motor Show. Its fully electric, metal folding roof was a technical marvel, preceding similar mass-market solutions by over a decade. With only one original prototype and five further units produced by OPAC, the Intruder is an exceptional rarity in the classic car world, encapsulating Heuliez’s innovative legacy and engineering skill.