ML350 vs E350
12-06-2011, 03:16 PM
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C350 - Steel Gray + MM + 18" AMG + IPod
ML350 vs E350
ok, this doesn't sound like the right comparison but ....
Was planning to get the 2012 ML350 since wife insists on an SUV but I noticed the E350 4MATIC is really close price-wise and given that the S & E classes are the Benz standard, i'm expecting better reliability over the long run.
Any quick thoughts?
Appreciate it, thx!
Was planning to get the 2012 ML350 since wife insists on an SUV but I noticed the E350 4MATIC is really close price-wise and given that the S & E classes are the Benz standard, i'm expecting better reliability over the long run.
Any quick thoughts?
Appreciate it, thx!
12-06-2011, 06:19 PM
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Current: 2011 W212 Previous: 2008 W211 2006 550 2001 Rover 1997 W210
Don't really think you can compare the two as you stated.
Think it comes more down to what do you need the car to do for you.
I got my wife a Honda Pilot. Why? Because we have two kids and need the extra space. Perfect for groceries, shopping, strollers, trips and whatnot. Perfect for the family. If we had the money, we would have gotten into the GL over the ML because of the additional space.
There's no way she could be doing the same stuff she does in my E with our 2 kids and doing the typical family stuff with the same ease and comfort.
But both the ML and E are super reliable cars as you can see tons of old MLs and Es on the roads each and every day.
Think it comes more down to what do you need the car to do for you.
I got my wife a Honda Pilot. Why? Because we have two kids and need the extra space. Perfect for groceries, shopping, strollers, trips and whatnot. Perfect for the family. If we had the money, we would have gotten into the GL over the ML because of the additional space.
There's no way she could be doing the same stuff she does in my E with our 2 kids and doing the typical family stuff with the same ease and comfort.
But both the ML and E are super reliable cars as you can see tons of old MLs and Es on the roads each and every day.
12-06-2011, 07:12 PM
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C350 - Steel Gray + MM + 18" AMG + IPod
Don't really think you can compare the two as you stated.
Think it comes more down to what do you need the car to do for you.
I got my wife a Honda Pilot. Why? Because we have two kids and need the extra space. Perfect for groceries, shopping, strollers, trips and whatnot. Perfect for the family. If we had the money, we would have gotten into the GL over the ML because of the additional space.
There's no way she could be doing the same stuff she does in my E with our 2 kids and doing the typical family stuff with the same ease and comfort.
But both the ML and E are super reliable cars as you can see tons of old MLs and Es on the roads each and every day.
Think it comes more down to what do you need the car to do for you.
I got my wife a Honda Pilot. Why? Because we have two kids and need the extra space. Perfect for groceries, shopping, strollers, trips and whatnot. Perfect for the family. If we had the money, we would have gotten into the GL over the ML because of the additional space.
There's no way she could be doing the same stuff she does in my E with our 2 kids and doing the typical family stuff with the same ease and comfort.
But both the ML and E are super reliable cars as you can see tons of old MLs and Es on the roads each and every day.
12-06-2011, 07:56 PM
#5
I was initially in the market for an ML too (ML550). I have one kid, who at the time was still in car seat. We were tired of having to sit with our knees on the dash to accommodate.
So I am at the MB dealer, and they have an ML parked right next to an E in the showroom. I'm checking out the legroom and storage space of the ML, and I look over at the E. D*mn if the E didn't look roomier!
I did all the comparisons way back when, and my recollection is that it really depends on how you use your space. The way I use space (mostly small things) the E was just as roomy. If you carry lots of large things (big strollers, etc.), you might be better with the ML. Some people prefer to put things (kids, luggage, themselves) up rather than down, which would favor the ML. I prefer things to be lower.
Tell you what though, the ML felt like a truck while test-driving it after the E!
12-06-2011, 08:37 PM
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C350 - Steel Gray + MM + 18" AMG + IPod
As stated above, it depends on what you need. But I'll share my story...
I was initially in the market for an ML too (ML550). I have one kid, who at the time was still in car seat. We were tired of having to sit with our knees on the dash to accommodate.
So I am at the MB dealer, and they have an ML parked right next to an E in the showroom. I'm checking out the legroom and storage space of the ML, and I look over at the E. D*mn if the E didn't look roomier!
I did all the comparisons way back when, and my recollection is that it really depends on how you use your space. The way I use space (mostly small things) the E was just as roomy. If you carry lots of large things (big strollers, etc.), you might be better with the ML. Some people prefer to put things (kids, luggage, themselves) up rather than down, which would favor the ML. I prefer things to be lower.
Tell you what though, the ML felt like a truck while test-driving it after the E!
I was initially in the market for an ML too (ML550). I have one kid, who at the time was still in car seat. We were tired of having to sit with our knees on the dash to accommodate.
So I am at the MB dealer, and they have an ML parked right next to an E in the showroom. I'm checking out the legroom and storage space of the ML, and I look over at the E. D*mn if the E didn't look roomier!
I did all the comparisons way back when, and my recollection is that it really depends on how you use your space. The way I use space (mostly small things) the E was just as roomy. If you carry lots of large things (big strollers, etc.), you might be better with the ML. Some people prefer to put things (kids, luggage, themselves) up rather than down, which would favor the ML. I prefer things to be lower.
Tell you what though, the ML felt like a truck while test-driving it after the E!
12-06-2011, 09:16 PM
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Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
To me, unless you need the more utilitarian nature and straight up utility of the ML, the E is the better hands down choice, looker, and vehicle to drive. To note, it is true that interior space in the ML is more cramped then one might think. I wouldn't be surprised at all if the E has more interior space for occupants. The ML to me is basically like a lifted, Truck-ized Wagon version of the E-Class.
Also, and this is a personal thing, but I like my Benzes built in Germany. I've boughten many American cars, and I like those built in America.
Also, and this is a personal thing, but I like my Benzes built in Germany. I've boughten many American cars, and I like those built in America.
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12-06-2011, 09:35 PM
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C350 - Steel Gray + MM + 18" AMG + IPod
To me, unless you need the more utilitarian nature and straight up utility of the ML, the E is the better hands down choice, looker, and vehicle to drive. To note, it is true that interior space in the ML is more cramped then one might think. I wouldn't be surprised at all if the E has more interior space for occupants. The ML to me is basically like a lifted, Truck-ized Wagon version of the E-Class.
Also, and this is a personal thing, but I like my Benzes built in Germany. I've boughten many American cars, and I like those built in America.
Also, and this is a personal thing, but I like my Benzes built in Germany. I've boughten many American cars, and I like those built in America.
12-06-2011, 09:37 PM
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C350 - Steel Gray + MM + 18" AMG + IPod
12-07-2011, 08:15 AM
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2011 E-350
I can share a very personal experience comparing the ML350 with the E350. We had an '06 ML350. My wife drove it. We have now owned 8 MB and the ML was the most problematic, hands down over all the others. Nothing major, just numerous "nit picking" things, such as the rain sensing wipers were erratic and sometimes inop, battery issues, noises in front suspension and under dash, electric outside mirrors only worked on occasion, and the memory never worked correctly on anything. It was still a pretty decent vehicle, but by far the worst MB we have ever owned. In December '09 my wife traded it for a new Escalade. It is the first time she has not driven a MB since 1984.
Now, to compare the ML to the E Class. I just recently purchased my 2011 E350. I can say for a fact, the E Class has more room in all aspects. By folding both rear seats down in both vehicles, you can get a little larger box in the ML, but that is the only difference. If you leave all the seats in place, there is much more room for rear seat passengers in the E Class, and you can haul a whole lot more groceries in the trunk of the E Class than in the rear of the ML. Of course, another important note, there is a lot more self satisfying "driving experience" with the E Class.
I live in Alabama and have close ties to the MB plant, but I must agree with a previous poster on the thread...I DO prefer Mercedes made in Germany. Of course, I guess I am a little prejudiced, as my wife of 43 years is also German. My motto is, "Germans build quality in all things." I hope my new E350 continues to live up to my theory.
On another note, the ML has been greatly improved since 06 and if we were in the market for another SUV, I'm sure it would be at the top of the list. One reason for that statement is, my wife loves SUVs. You can take the girl out of Germany, but you can't take the "German" out of the girl. Now that I have thoroughly confused you, good luck in your choice. To paraphrase another poster, "it actually boils down to what you want the vehicle to do for you."
Now, to compare the ML to the E Class. I just recently purchased my 2011 E350. I can say for a fact, the E Class has more room in all aspects. By folding both rear seats down in both vehicles, you can get a little larger box in the ML, but that is the only difference. If you leave all the seats in place, there is much more room for rear seat passengers in the E Class, and you can haul a whole lot more groceries in the trunk of the E Class than in the rear of the ML. Of course, another important note, there is a lot more self satisfying "driving experience" with the E Class.
I live in Alabama and have close ties to the MB plant, but I must agree with a previous poster on the thread...I DO prefer Mercedes made in Germany. Of course, I guess I am a little prejudiced, as my wife of 43 years is also German. My motto is, "Germans build quality in all things." I hope my new E350 continues to live up to my theory.
On another note, the ML has been greatly improved since 06 and if we were in the market for another SUV, I'm sure it would be at the top of the list. One reason for that statement is, my wife loves SUVs. You can take the girl out of Germany, but you can't take the "German" out of the girl. Now that I have thoroughly confused you, good luck in your choice. To paraphrase another poster, "it actually boils down to what you want the vehicle to do for you."
12-07-2011, 11:16 AM
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C350 - Steel Gray + MM + 18" AMG + IPod
I can share a very personal experience comparing the ML350 with the E350. We had an '06 ML350. My wife drove it. We have now owned 8 MB and the ML was the most problematic, hands down over all the others. Nothing major, just numerous "nit picking" things, such as the rain sensing wipers were erratic and sometimes inop, battery issues, noises in front suspension and under dash, electric outside mirrors only worked on occasion, and the memory never worked correctly on anything. It was still a pretty decent vehicle, but by far the worst MB we have ever owned. In December '09 my wife traded it for a new Escalade. It is the first time she has not driven a MB since 1984.
Now, to compare the ML to the E Class. I just recently purchased my 2011 E350. I can say for a fact, the E Class has more room in all aspects. By folding both rear seats down in both vehicles, you can get a little larger box in the ML, but that is the only difference. If you leave all the seats in place, there is much more room for rear seat passengers in the E Class, and you can haul a whole lot more groceries in the trunk of the E Class than in the rear of the ML. Of course, another important note, there is a lot more self satisfying "driving experience" with the E Class.
I live in Alabama and have close ties to the MB plant, but I must agree with a previous poster on the thread...I DO prefer Mercedes made in Germany. Of course, I guess I am a little prejudiced, as my wife of 43 years is also German. My motto is, "Germans build quality in all things." I hope my new E350 continues to live up to my theory.
On another note, the ML has been greatly improved since 06 and if we were in the market for another SUV, I'm sure it would be at the top of the list. One reason for that statement is, my wife loves SUVs. You can take the girl out of Germany, but you can't take the "German" out of the girl. Now that I have thoroughly confused you, good luck in your choice. To paraphrase another poster, "it actually boils down to what you want the vehicle to do for you."
Now, to compare the ML to the E Class. I just recently purchased my 2011 E350. I can say for a fact, the E Class has more room in all aspects. By folding both rear seats down in both vehicles, you can get a little larger box in the ML, but that is the only difference. If you leave all the seats in place, there is much more room for rear seat passengers in the E Class, and you can haul a whole lot more groceries in the trunk of the E Class than in the rear of the ML. Of course, another important note, there is a lot more self satisfying "driving experience" with the E Class.
I live in Alabama and have close ties to the MB plant, but I must agree with a previous poster on the thread...I DO prefer Mercedes made in Germany. Of course, I guess I am a little prejudiced, as my wife of 43 years is also German. My motto is, "Germans build quality in all things." I hope my new E350 continues to live up to my theory.
On another note, the ML has been greatly improved since 06 and if we were in the market for another SUV, I'm sure it would be at the top of the list. One reason for that statement is, my wife loves SUVs. You can take the girl out of Germany, but you can't take the "German" out of the girl. Now that I have thoroughly confused you, good luck in your choice. To paraphrase another poster, "it actually boils down to what you want the vehicle to do for you."
I get when you talk about "driving experience", have a 2008 C350 which I love and having driven an ML350 earlier this year (not the 2012) the ride is so much different, too "light" if you wish. The downside of having a C class is that we'll have 2 sedans with one more spacious which I don't have a problem with whatsoever but that's just me...
Also there's something with women (especially with kids) that attracts them to SUVs... here's yesterday's evening discussion:
Wife: "I need something more spacious, we're getting an SUV!"
Me: "The E is actually more spacious, read these posts and check the dimensions, it's built in Germany etc."
Wife: "blablabla...SUV... SUV ... SUV..."
LOL, at least she's not asking for a Minivan, i'd have a heart attack.
12-07-2011, 05:48 PM
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Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
Lol. I'll walk before I Minivan it! 
SUV's are like the new-age-womans Minivan, or if you think back to the 60's/70's, Station Wagon I guess.
SUV's are like the new-age-womans Minivan, or if you think back to the 60's/70's, Station Wagon I guess.
12-07-2011, 08:37 PM
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2013 E350 4M Wagon & 2013 C350 4M Sedan
I know you don't like the wagon look, but it certainly looks better than an ML, they are rare and drive much better and has equal or more room.
12-07-2011, 09:18 PM
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K-A, All that MB truck needs is a killer interior and a bumper sticker that says: "If this Van is rocking, don't bother knocking..." Of course parking will be cumbersome and the drive-thru at Starbucks will be off limits.
12-08-2011, 06:36 AM
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E350 4matic
Wife: "I need something more spacious, we're getting an SUV!"
Me: "The E is actually more spacious, read these posts and check the dimensions, it's built in Germany etc."
Wife: "blablabla...SUV... SUV ... SUV..."
LOL, at least she's not asking for a Minivan, i'd have a heart attack.
Me: "The E is actually more spacious, read these posts and check the dimensions, it's built in Germany etc."
Wife: "blablabla...SUV... SUV ... SUV..."
LOL, at least she's not asking for a Minivan, i'd have a heart attack.
12-08-2011, 08:16 AM
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reckrab, A good car will get you through times of no wife better than a wife will get you through times of no car.
12-08-2011, 07:18 PM
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12-08-2011, 07:19 PM
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