ML 5.0 vs. G Class

[CitySnake]

Our ML320 lease is up and we must decide on the new family car.  The newer ML 5.0 is perfect but, effectively the same car as we've driven for 4 years.  I'd like to hear any opinions of using the G wagon for 99% family pavement use.  I realize there is a $20,000 difference, but putting that aside, does anyone have experience with the G wagon as a family vehicle?
Thanks in advance.

 

[mattsbeamer]

I would go for the G-class. My cousins got one, and they last for ever. Therre is loads of room, for the kids, and shopping, and is very well built. As for the ML is may look nice, and hande better, but we looked at one, as an alternative to the Rangerover, and it was no up to theG-class standards. It feels plasticy and would probably crack. And the M is less pratcle, and you would be more worried aboutbeaking it. Plus the G-class is brilliant off road.

 

[mattsbeamer]

just noticed you have a viper. sounds nice. What is a Dauter Jesse.

 

[mattsbeamer]

If you want I will try to get my cousin on this site. To give you a better opion. []

 

[fuzzer]

G wagen , a hummer that u can park ;-)

 

[CitySnake]

Quote: from mattsbeamer on 7:58 am on July 20, 2002
just noticed you have a viper. sounds nice. What is a Dauter Jesse.

Hi Matts:
You're right about the Viper (2001 RT/10).  Jesse is my 2.5 year old daughter (born in 2000)  That's the reason we need the MB.  BTW, our 4 year old ML320 has been nothing but excellent.  No problems.  I agree that they're a bit plastic, but the M class is a good $20 to $25,000 less than the G class.  You get what you pay for.  As for off roading...that does not happen much here in NYC.  We really want a good reason to spend the extra on the G wagon...but don't want to sacrifice the utilitarian benefits of the van like M class.

 

[mattsbeamer]

Jesse is my 2.5 year old daughter (born in 2000) Thats nice . I thought you had a fancy yaught or something.
As for the M and the G. The G is 99% practcle, I think in USA they are full of electric goodies and leather ect, but if its comfort yo want for Jesse go for the ML. I have a feeling you can get a 5.0L G over there. Have you tried the G. Its more of a personal choice .
Safety should be Brilliant of the G, because it was a military vehicle, but don't take my word, check on the safety websites if you can find one

 

[mattsbeamer]

I was wrong on the safety front, it only got 1 out of 5 no air bags ABS or an thing(unless the USA market does.. Thats Rubbish, while the M got 5/5.
Since safey is more important than practicaliy (especaly when your carring your pride and joy) go for the ML.
The ML only lacks a little of what the G has in practcallity, so So for the M-class. Sorry if I confused you.

 

[CitySnake]

No problem Matts.  Appreciate the info!  Here's what I found on the MSN Carpoint Site (note: the '03 info is not yet available):
The 2002 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is available in a single trim: G500. Safety features include dual front airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), permanent 4WD, traction control, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and daytime running lights. Powering the new G500 is a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 296 horsepower teamed with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment is plentiful, and includes automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, leather and burl walnut trim, 10-way power front seats, an AM/FM stereo with CD changer, GPS navigation system, TeleAid telematic system and remote keyless entry. A stainless-steel spare wheel cover, front and rear fog lights, sliding sunroof, and 18-inch alloy wheels are also standard. The G500's 4WD system features a front, center, and rear differential locks, and a low-range that can be engaged at speeds up to 15 mph.
It DOES have ABS and air bags!  Just found out my insurance will rise substantially (G is about 50% more to insure than the M - apparently the average cost to repair is far more costly).  We'll test drive the G and then decide.  Thanks for your response!

 

[Andy]

Hi All

The first thing about a G wagon. Is that its completely different in every aspect from the ML. The G wagon having been developed under a very different criterial from the ML. Built for the German army its off road capabilties are second to none.  But very few privately owned vehicles go off road.

If you are seriously contenplating the G wagon. Then have a extensive road test first. You will find it very enlightening.

Regards

Andy @ www.mercedesservcing.com