It’s been 105 years since Mercedes-Benz introduced the first commercially-available 4×4. Since then, it’s produced some superb 4×4 commercial vehicles, including the legendary Unimog.

In 1907, four-wheel drive was virtually unheard of and certainly not a standard production option — until Mercedes-Benz (or Daimler-Motoren-Gessellschaft, as it was then) introduced the Dernburg-Wagen, the world’s first commercially-available four-wheel drive vehicle.

Not only did it have four-wheel drive, it also had four-wheel steering, something that’s still considered high-tech (if a little eccentric) today. With ground clearance of 32-centimetres and a 6.8-litre, four-cylinder engine developing a modest 35 hp at 800 rpm, the Dernburg-Wagen was a serious piece of kit and could carry five passengers. Solid steel wheels wrapped in pneumatic tyres helped protect the drum brakes from debris.

Since then, Mercedes has produced a succession of superb four-wheel drive vehicles, many of which are aimed at the commercial market. Let’s take a pictorial look down memory lane at some of the finest 4x4s ever made:

This is how it all started. The Dernburg-Wagen was the first commercially-available 4x4 model when it was introduced in 1907.

Early versions of the Unimog were somewhat agricultural in terms of creature comforts, but their off-road abilities, pulling power and toughness were never in question.

The Unimog soon got bigger and better...

Don't make the mistake of thinking that the Unimog is just an overgrown pickup -- it's not, as this picture of it pulling a 32-tonne tipper shows.

The latest Unimog is more capable and technically-advanced than ever, but they still haven't ditched that orange paint!

White van man's ultimate ride? The Sprinter 4x4 is surprisingly capable off road and doesn't sacrifice any of the practicality of the standard van. I want one...

Merc's adopted Japanese cousin hasn't been left out either. The Fuso Canter was already a great workhorse, and the recent addition of a 4x4 option made it even better.

Finally, for when a Unimog simply isn't enough... The Mercedes-Benz Zetros is even bigger and more awesome. It offers gross weights of up to 27t combined with genuine off-road ability.

What’s your all-time favourite 4×4? Leave a comment below and let me know.