Which ML to purchase?

[JDP]

It's about time to shed the "Mommy-mobile" Mini Van and get an ML. I have heard that some of the earlier models had many minor problems with ignition switches, radios, etc. Are all of these problems resolved and what is the oldest model I can purchase that is completely debugged?

Thanks,

JDP
Atlanta, GA

 

[guydewdney]

2026....

no - after 2002/3 iirc they switched manufacturing plants from usofa to germany - thereby actually making the things right.....

 

[Dieter]

Hi,
I think you'll find that most MLs are made in Alabama (USA) especially the new(er) face-lifted models. Some of the pre-face lifted models were made in Austria. So any change in quality is NOT down to change in manufacturing site. The new ML (I believe) along with R-class will be made only in the States
I have had a 'face-lifted ML270CDi for 30mths now and am quite happy with it i.e. no major probs, just a rattle or two (rear number plate!!).
Cheers,

Dieter

 

[JDP]

One of those answers has to be wrong............

 

[Dieter]

The other one!!!!

Cheers,

 

[JDP]

O.K. The conclusion is that they are probably manufactured in Alabama. We're not certain, but probably.

So have they worked out the bugs? Would a 2004 or 2005 ML likely be a "Best Buy"?

 

[Dieter]

Hi,
There's a spy shot of new ML in this weeks Autoexpress (UK). It's a bit more streamlined (like RX300) but quote " should drive on road more like BMW X5" and interior "more like E-class". However all this comes at a price. Entry level @£35K v current £31K, which compares more (un)favourably with X5.

Cheers

 

[Arnie]

Forget the ML and forget the X5. get one of these:

http://www.g-wagon.co.uk/

In 10 year's time it will still be worth what you paid for it because of rarity. It's the only hand-built MB (SLR excepted, maybe) and will soon be replaced by some US-built SUV.

 

[maldon]

Are they really that bad? I am seriously thinking about buying a diesel version, as I will have to drive a couple of times a week around 120 miles round trip - not really the sort of thing to use the 78 450SLC for...

Having not dirven an ML, but reading the reviews just wonder if I am actually going to be better off with an E Class estate, in terms of space, running and depreciation.

Our old 93 E estate was probably the best car I have ever owned and I seriously regret selling it.

 

[panason1c]

I've had my ML (2001..270CDI..Auto) for a few months now and in my opinion its brilliant!
We recently completed a 2,800 mile round trip of Spain and France, we averaged 33/34 mpg driving at average speeds of 80/85mph. the aircon is very powerful and kept us cool in 37c temps.
All in all it is a very safe and good to drive comfortable vehicle with low depreciation and have no hesitation in recommending that you test drive one. (the suspension is quite 'firm' over bumps but it is, after all, a 4x4!

 

[maldon]

Thanks Panason1c - I have seen one advertised locally hope to test drive in a coupel of days :lol:

 

[Richard W]

...... wonder if I am actually going to be better off with an E Class estate, in terms of space, running and depreciation......

Yes, IMHO and please don't think of this as a 4x4 hating post, that unless you are actually going to use the 4wd/size (e.g. towing/green laning/farming/etc) then get an E-class CDi estate. It'll be faster, handle better, more economical.... etc etc

My ML was probably the worst car I've had for ride and handling and the quality of materials was appalling. Mine had the 17" 430 wheels and the suspension couldn't cope, crashing and banging oper the slightest bumps. It also wallowed like a hippo when you tried to take a corner at anything remotely faster than walking pace. The rear carpet was worn through after only 42k and the family pack seats had to be taken out 'cos they rattled so much..... and so on.

Maybe these are some of the faults that were implied in the original question and I was just unlucky - all I would say is try to get as long a test as you possibly can, drive it as you would your own and rigorously check all the electrics. Oh yes - get a diesel, the residuals are far better.

I would have another 4wd, but it wouldn't be an ML - X5 probably but I haven't driven one yet so may still change my mind :wink:

 

[panason1c]

Maldon, I will be interested in your opinion of the ML after your test drive.

 

[maldon]

Panason1c - the ML just down the road was planning to have a test drive of today has been sold - on face of it looked reasonable 16k abt 50 on the clock lux pack

There are a few others around locally so with any luck...

 

[maldon]

Panason1c - the ML just down the road was planning to have a test drive of today has been sold - on face of it looked reasonable 16k abt 50 on the clock lux pack

There are a few others around locally so with any luck...

 

[bacormack]

I, traded in my sporty car for a ML 270CDI, needed more space, bought a new 2004, with Lux Pack, Family Pack, Privacy Glass, Auto G/Box, Tracker, I have added comand & CD Changer myself.

So far I have covered 4.5K & have no build quality concerns, it's far better than anything I've owned so far. Sure it rolls a bit but it is a large 4x4 & I have no problem keeping up with traffic & I mainly drive B roads & still get about 30mpg. The family enjoy the new found room, maybe a X5 would have been better but as they didn't do a 7 seat option I ruled it out. Whitefield Mercedes Manchester did me a terrific deal wich seem me by new when what I was considering was 1 year old.