soapy

I just traded my Gl 450 for a new ML 550. THe ML is a P3 with a bunch of other options. I loved the GL but did not need the size anymore. Before the Gl I had a ML 500 that had more problems than any car I have ever had. I just hope that MB has improved the quality of the ML. THe year and a half I had the GL I never had one problem and I am hoping for the same with the new ML. I see that MB list in their brochures that 0 to 60 is 6.7 seconds. I have read several magazine tests that show it at 5.4 to 5.6 seconds to 60. Why is MB so conservative in their numbers?

ruey220

the magazines may be talking about the S class numbers with the same engine. The ML is heavier and they probably didn't account for that difference.

Germancar1

Nah he's right, the magazines have tested the ML550 and found it to be much faster than MB's stats. Mercedes always has been conservative with their numbers. For one reason I doubt their engineers use the brake-torque method that magazines like Car and Driver do. Then again 6.7 sounds a little slow, sure that isn't for the ML500?

M

red00lght

How does it feel in comparison to the 500? What year was your ML500 that you had the problems with? So far at 20k miles, mine has been problem free(knock on wood....).

My 2006 ML500 has good punch when you really step on it, but in regular driving it seems like the tranny upshifts too soon causing it to bog down a bit. I know that saves gas, but it would be nice if it would delay the first few shifts a second or two. Does the 550 feel alot lighter on its' feet or do you really have to get into it to notice the extra horses??

soapy

My GL 450 felt faster than my ML 500. THe Gl also rode better. I have been driving my new ML around today after a heavy 12 inch snow fall. It really needs to have the winter tires on to compare it to the GL. With snows the GL was fantastic in the snow and ice. I think the ML will not do quite as well due to the shorter wheel base. I have noticed the Ml likes to jump around in the ruts a little more than the gl did. The roads have been to slick to really get on it and see how fast it is.

nantucketsleigh

Was contemplating same trade - mostly for stronger acceleration. Appreciate your comments, a friend made similar remarks. I think I'll stick with GL450 at least until the 4.2 liter diesel is offered.

stevenW211

May I know what the problems were on your previous ML500?? Tks!!!

soapy

I had problems with the air ride suspension numerous times and a few other things I can't recall. About every 2 months I had to take it back for something.

red00lght

Boy, am I glad I don't have that air ride suspension! Seems like it is a constant problem to say the least! Every CL I had was flawed with that suspension always needing maintenance. Makes you wonder what MB was thinking?!

stevenW211

Sorry to hear abt another case of problematic Airmatic.
MB should have done more QC on this Airmatic!!!

nantucketsleigh

Despite problems with airmatic, I believe it is a key option for drivers looking for a good compromise of ride/handling. If not for airmatic I would still be a BMW customer despite Bangle styling and Idrive issues.