Description:

Before there were the Porsche Cayenne TURBO and Lamborghini URUS SUVs, the AMG renningenieurs created arguably, the first high-performance SUV. 354 HP and ‘holy crap’ torque motivate this beast to 60mph in a tick over 6 seconds. Even for today, this 2001 model keeps up with and passes by modern SUVs; all in the posh comfort of Buffalo leather, adjustable heated seats and a BOSE hi-fi audio system. AMG built 1,106 ML55’s in 2001. Good ones are hard to find. 

This Florida example is well-cared for and driven. Originally delivered to its first owner at RBM Mercedes in Atlanta, she sold it to me in a private sale around 2013. The ML55 resides in SW Florida. These 2 business owners used the panzer-wagon —affectionately called Hercules—for client lunches and the occasional job site tour. Clean history and carfax. 

Comfortable cruising around town or accelerate ahead of anyone (except a Tesla) is easy with the smooth AMG-built 5.4L V8 with 16 spark plugs. The AWD /4matic system is secure in rain and snow.

Hercules has known nearly only OEM Mercedes parts (or OEM Manufacturers)and comes with a 2” binder of invoices that add up to “I don’t really want to know.” Dealer and Mercedes specialist serviced. 

Many recent services include new CONTINENTAL UHP tires installed and road-force balanced at the Dealer. These are the correct tire per AMG. New fuel pump, filter, fan unit, serpentine belt, and brake disks/pads installed. The known Achilles heal of this ML have been handled. Including, but not limited to brake switch fault ESP light, AAM module, crankshaft position sensors, leaky electrical transmission rubber seals, and leaky power steering reservoirs.

Prior care and better-than-by-the-book maintenance has provided 160k trouble-free miles. There are well-known examples of these ML’s exceeding 350k miles of daily use. 

While he shows gentle signs of use, however, a recent CERAMIC coating makes the brilliant silver sparkle from a block away. (And easy cleaning.) The clear OEM glass with proper ride height gives this SUV a street presence. The low range is exercised regularly. Only the front fog lights are inoperable as we haven’t had the need in sunny Florida.

The interior of the ML was always its weak point, but this example has fresh-looking Buffalo leather. The ML55 comes with lightly used carpet floor mats (embroidered logos) as well as Mercedes all-weather floor mats. The rear cargo area is covered as well and comes with the OEM spare tire carrier and enclosure that gets thrown out early in its ownership. Tools and mini compressor are still with the SUV. The factory towing package is in place with a trailer coupler hidden under the rear bumper cover. 

I’m just a simple guy that loves cars. If this AD is still up Hercules is available. I’ve bought another SUV… Hercules needs a new home. Are you qualified? If we aren’t talking then your offer isn't valid. Come and drive Hercules. If you fly into FTM, I'll pick you up.   mariottimichael@yahoo.com. 239-994-9816 mobile

PS. The car comes with two sets of floor mats, two factory rear cargo cover options, the spare tire carrier enclosure, the cargo area floor pieces that fold up (carpeted),