ML500 towing capacity

[rjohn1]

I own a new 2003 ML500 and am somewhat confused by its rated towing capacity.

1. Why is the towing capacity of my ML500 the same as that of the ML320, ML350 and ML55, 5,000 lbs??

2. Why are all the ML series light trucks rated to tow 5,000 lbs in the U.S. but 7,700 lbs in Germany?

Any answers/comments are appreciated.

rjohn1

 

[Matt Crooke]

Hi John.

I think im correct with the following answers, im sure someone will clarify though if im wrong.

1) There are a number of factors taken into consideration when calculating towing weights, the main thing that springs to mind is Engine Power. Logic says that the bigger the engine, the more it can pull, which is true, however manufacturers also have to take into account the stability of the vehicle when towing, the downforce of the weight on the tow bar, and the overall strength of the towball, towbar, and all the inclusive fixings. MB have obviously decided that 5,000lbs is suitable for this vehicle.

2) This difference in weight could be one of a couple of things. Firstly isnt there a difference between a US lb and a European lb, the same as US and Euro gallons...one is bigger than the other, although i cant remember which.???

Also if the man in the street could test an ML to its limit, it may well be able to pull much more than 5,000 lbs, but a lot of the time the motoring organisations and departments of transport like to impose what they think is a safe limit on us mere motals towing on public roads.......as we all know governments do have some strange rulings......Sealed Beam lights in the USA for example! (not a dig you understand, just an amused observation!)