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In Iran, the Mercedes-Benz LK Truck Continues Production Even After Decades. The Old Model Is Still Popular and Functional in the Local Market.
While Brazil has already retired models with outdated technologies, such as brakes without ABS or vehicles without airbags, in Iran, a classic survives with full strength. This is the Mercedes-Benz LK truck, manufactured there to this day.
The model, which was successful on Brazilian roads, continues to be produced by Iran Khodro Diesel, a state-owned company that manufactures everything from modern trucks, such as the Mercedes Actros, to veterans like the LK. But why does it still exist?
The answer lies in the preference of the Iranian market. Robust, reliable, and adapted to local needs, the Mercedes LK has won a loyal audience.
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It is produced in the 1924 and 2624 versions, with an OM-355 LA engine, a five-cylinder diesel delivering 240 hp.
Technical Details of the Mercedes Truck Produced in Iran
Even with decades on the road, the Mercedes truck still maintains a traditional construction. Here are some highlights:
Engine: OM-355 LA, naturally aspirated, 5 cylinders, 240 hp.
Transmission: ZF six-speed manual.
Environmental standard: Euro 3 (discarded in Brazil in 2011).
- Versions:
- 1924 – 4×2 traction, GVW of 19 tons.
- 2624 – with three axles, GVW of 26 tons.
Although Brazil redesigned the LK with a more modern front, in Iran, it retains its original design, with only changes to the cabin — now more square and featuring larger windows.
With the escalation of conflicts between Iran and Israel, the future of Mercedes truck production in the country is uncertain.
However, even if it is discontinued, the LK will continue to be a prominent presence on Middle Eastern roads.
Iran Also Preserves Peugeot Classics
In addition to the Mercedes truck, Iran is known for keeping other old models alive.
An example is the Peugeot 207i, which is actually the old 206 with an updated look — the same one we know in Brazil as 207 Passion.
Manufactured by Iran Khodro, the 207i is still produced with a 1.6 16v engine and now features a six-speed automatic transmission.
Internally, it received upgrades such as a multimedia center and steering wheel controls. Externally, it remains practically unchanged since the 2000s.
Why Does the Mercedes Truck Survive in Iran?
While the global market seeks constant innovation, countries like Iran keep veteran vehicles for a simple reason: they work well, are easy to maintain, and meet local needs.
The Mercedes-Benz LK truck is proof of this — a machine that defies time and modern technological standards.
Source: Auto Papo
O MERCEDES 0355 É UMA MÁQUINA MUITO BOA TRABALHEI COM ELE NA C.V. SÃO GERALDO NOS ÔNIBUS NÃO TINHA PRA NINGUÉM BOM MOTOR.
Nossa eles usam o pior motor que poderia usar dos antigos Mercedes, se fosse ao menos o 355/6 , e pela potência ainda é dos últimos modelos de 84 pra frente+- onde já tinha o 366 que é menor e mais econômico só que menos potente tbm, ou o 447 que é maior e mais forte que o 355.