Who, where, why, how?
You’ve seen the machine, you know his face, but what else do you really know about the infamous Lone Rider? Behind the outback dust and sweaty beard, there’s a proud company’s creation and Aussie hero’s story to be told that goes the distance…
Let’s talk the Driver –
Tall, dirty and determined, the Lone Rider character is a symbol of raw Aussie resistance and good nature. Fuelled by our nation’s adaptability to a wide range of elements, from amazing landscapes to diverse cultures, comes the Lone Rider’s character.
If you’re not familiar with the fictitious’ character’s backstory, the first Lone Rider sighting dates back to 1988 with reports of a mysterious wanderer cruising different parts of the rugged outback and is rumoured to have been on the move for over three decades.
Like smoke in the wind, no one knows his real name, where he comes from or if he’ll reach his final destination, but one thing is for sure… It’s Gulf Western Oil’s indestructible lubricants that have allowed him to go the distance for so long and against all odds. Sightings are rare and if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse, it would only be fleeting as he stops to top up on fuel and slurpies (when it gets hot out there!).
Now, as a familiar face for the Gulf Western Oil brand, the Lone Rider story lives on through a range of premium oils available around the world.
Let’s talk the Ride –
Worthy of the double-take (we don’t blame you!) comes the big, mean Gulf Western Oil Lone Rider machine.
Whether it caught your eye on TV, social media or you may have even seen it cruising around some national racetracks, the Lone Rider machine is a sight to behold!
The monstrous diesel-guzzler took a whole team of dedicated and skilled creators, engineers and mechanics to bring it to life.
The inspiration was simple… Build something that could actually go the distance, tackling the harshest conditions and roughest terrains, while looking good doing it.
Let’s talk Specs
Built tough, here’s the full Lone Rider build breakdown:
| Shell | 1983 Mercedes-Benz Unimog |
| Engine | Inline six-cylinder diesel direct-injection |
| Boost | Factory turbo with a compound twin GT 42 setup |
| Engine Model | OM 353.961 A |
| Bore x Stroke, Displacement | [3.82 in x 5.04 in] / [346.3 cu in] |
| Rated Power | 166 hp |
| Gearbox | 8-speed manual |
| Propulsion | Rear wheel drive with selectable all-wheel drive |
| VMAX | 80-110 km/h |
| Fuel Consumption | 20-22 L/100km |
| Dimensions | 6.15 (L) x 2.3 (W) x 2.0 (H) metres |
| Weight | 6 tonne |
Upcoming Appearances for 2024
Here’s where you can catch a glimpse of the elusive Lone Rider machine this year:
- Roll Racing Sydney | 3 Feb 2024
- Sydney Dragway | 3-4 May 2024
- Gulf Western Oil Winternationals | 6-9 June 2024
We’re here to help!
At Gulf Western Oil, we know oil well and are one of the largest Australian-owned lubricants manufacturer’s, so give us a call on 1800 248 919 or fill in the form below and one of our friendly team members will be in touch.