Questions: want to order ML63!
12-14-2006, 07:18 PM
#1
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 339
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2012 C63 Black Series Coupe
Questions: want to order ML63!
I'm new to this thread, having just sold my 2005 E55 wagon. She was a beauty -- and I felt sick as she drove off -- but after reconstructive surgery on both knees the E was just too low to the ground...
I'm thinking the ML63 might be the perfect replacement; it's got the goods PLUS (according to mbusa.com) it has more legroom than the GL. That's far more important to me than passenger or cargo capacity; we have a Honda Element that we use for grunt work...
Questions:
• Is all of the ML63 assembly carried out in Alabama? I realize that the engines come out of Affalterbach, but is there any special assembly line for the AMG version of the ML?
• Is factory delivery an option on this model?
Options:
• I'm wavering on Distronic, especially if it sets off my Valentine One.
• People have complained about having to "learn" the rear-view camera; could someone kindly provide more details on this?
• On the rear-seat entertainment package (the $2,800 one), where is the DVD player mounted?
• Does this thing really sound as #@!!*&# fantastic as in the videos?
• In normal driving, what kind of mpg numbers are people getting? I'm not concerned about the cost of fuel -- I'm more interested in how often I might have to stop when driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles, for example.
• Is there a motorcycle trailer (for two bikes) that will do an ML63 justice? If not, I may have to find an old Airstream Bambi (the little one), gut it, and make a bike trailer out of it...
Thanks in advance!
I'm thinking the ML63 might be the perfect replacement; it's got the goods PLUS (according to mbusa.com) it has more legroom than the GL. That's far more important to me than passenger or cargo capacity; we have a Honda Element that we use for grunt work...
Questions:
• Is all of the ML63 assembly carried out in Alabama? I realize that the engines come out of Affalterbach, but is there any special assembly line for the AMG version of the ML?
• Is factory delivery an option on this model?
Options:
• I'm wavering on Distronic, especially if it sets off my Valentine One.
• People have complained about having to "learn" the rear-view camera; could someone kindly provide more details on this?
• On the rear-seat entertainment package (the $2,800 one), where is the DVD player mounted?
• Does this thing really sound as #@!!*&# fantastic as in the videos?
• In normal driving, what kind of mpg numbers are people getting? I'm not concerned about the cost of fuel -- I'm more interested in how often I might have to stop when driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles, for example.
• Is there a motorcycle trailer (for two bikes) that will do an ML63 justice? If not, I may have to find an old Airstream Bambi (the little one), gut it, and make a bike trailer out of it...
Thanks in advance!
12-14-2006, 08:01 PM
#2
Almost a Member!
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I don't know if the AMG has a separate assemble line, but I doubt it. The website of the Alabama facility is www.mbusi.com
I don't know if there is factory delivery, but I heard there was. Your dealer should know.
Distronic is one of my favorite options. No, it does not set off my V1.
Rear view camera shot shows up on the Command screen when in reverse. I don't see where any learning has to take place to use it, other than getting used to the short focal length lens (fish eye effect).
The DVD player is mounted underneath the right side rear seat behind a sliding door. Not the most convenient place, but workable.
Yes, it sounds like the videos when you get on the throttle. Other than that, it's reasonably quiet.
I get 17-18mpg on the highway, and 12-13 in town. Hard on the throttle would be quite a reduction in this. For my driving style, I can probably get 300-350 miles per tank.
Don't know about a trailer.
I don't know if there is factory delivery, but I heard there was. Your dealer should know.
Distronic is one of my favorite options. No, it does not set off my V1.
Rear view camera shot shows up on the Command screen when in reverse. I don't see where any learning has to take place to use it, other than getting used to the short focal length lens (fish eye effect).
The DVD player is mounted underneath the right side rear seat behind a sliding door. Not the most convenient place, but workable.
Yes, it sounds like the videos when you get on the throttle. Other than that, it's reasonably quiet.
I get 17-18mpg on the highway, and 12-13 in town. Hard on the throttle would be quite a reduction in this. For my driving style, I can probably get 300-350 miles per tank.
Don't know about a trailer.
12-14-2006, 08:08 PM
#3
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 339
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2012 C63 Black Series Coupe
I don't know if the AMG has a separate assemble line, but I doubt it. The website of the Alabama facility is www.mbusi.comYes, it sounds like the videos when you get on the throttle. Other than that, it's reasonably quiet.
12-14-2006, 08:24 PM
#4
Almost a Member!
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I'm really pleased with my ML63. I traded a CayenneTT for it, and have no regrets. It feels rock-solid driving down the road. The handling is similar to the Cayenne as is the accelleration, although it feels a bit different with no turbo effect. The seats are really comfortable, and everyone who has ridden in it comments on this. I had an ML55 once, and the build quality of the ML63 is significantly better.
I have an 05 E55 and the ML compares well with it, given the difference between an SUV and a sedan. i enjoy driving the Ml just as much.
I wish you the best with your decision.
I have an 05 E55 and the ML compares well with it, given the difference between an SUV and a sedan. i enjoy driving the Ml just as much.
I wish you the best with your decision.
12-15-2006, 01:21 AM
#5
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 339
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2012 C63 Black Series Coupe
I'm really pleased with my ML63. I traded a CayenneTT for it, and have no regrets. It feels rock-solid driving down the road. The handling is similar to the Cayenne as is the accelleration, although it feels a bit different with no turbo effect. The seats are really comfortable, and everyone who has ridden in it comments on this. I had an ML55 once, and the build quality of the ML63 is significantly better.
I have an 05 E55 and the ML compares well with it, given the difference between an SUV and a sedan. i enjoy driving the Ml just as much.
I have an 05 E55 and the ML compares well with it, given the difference between an SUV and a sedan. i enjoy driving the Ml just as much.
12-15-2006, 08:49 AM
#7
Super Member
Join Date: May 2003
Location: Midwest
Posts: 576
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
'08 SL550 Sport, '11 BMW 550ix M sport
I gotta agree with escapement...
Don't skip on distronic if you frequent the highways. It's a great feature and has never set off my V1.
I love the rear view camera! The only learning curve you need to remember is that the camera is not placed in the middle of the hatch lid. it's maybe 8" off center. It can sometimes be deceiving when backing up to a trailer hitch. After a couple of trys, you figure it out and then it's a marvelous aid when hooking up. To the casual observer you look like a trailer hook up guru. The trailer hitch is mounted very low so you need to flip over your hitch to raise the tongue.
As for milage... again escapements right 300-350 miles per tankfull. Just don't let the fuel guage scare you. It drops like a stone from full to 3/4. Then the pace seems to slow down the closer you get to empty.
I too am an ex-W211 E55 owner and although it doesn't feel quite as fast as an E55 it feels as fast as an E63, and the exaust note is SWEET!
My advice to you is to load it up with all options. They all work (in contrast to my 2004 E55) and they all are a great addition to my enjoyment of the truck.
Good luck.
Don't skip on distronic if you frequent the highways. It's a great feature and has never set off my V1.
I love the rear view camera! The only learning curve you need to remember is that the camera is not placed in the middle of the hatch lid. it's maybe 8" off center. It can sometimes be deceiving when backing up to a trailer hitch. After a couple of trys, you figure it out and then it's a marvelous aid when hooking up. To the casual observer you look like a trailer hook up guru. The trailer hitch is mounted very low so you need to flip over your hitch to raise the tongue.
As for milage... again escapements right 300-350 miles per tankfull. Just don't let the fuel guage scare you. It drops like a stone from full to 3/4. Then the pace seems to slow down the closer you get to empty.
I too am an ex-W211 E55 owner and although it doesn't feel quite as fast as an E55 it feels as fast as an E63, and the exaust note is SWEET!
My advice to you is to load it up with all options. They all work (in contrast to my 2004 E55) and they all are a great addition to my enjoyment of the truck.
Good luck.
Trending Topics
12-15-2006, 10:01 AM
#8
MBWorld Fanatic!
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: Long Island & Hong Kong
Posts: 1,264
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
20+ to list......
I have to agree with the exhaust note and MPG with the others, though not as sweet as my E55 and M6, but it's a different kind of beast, and I've received lots of compliments on it. Living in NYC and driving through it doesn't require Distronic, but since others have very positive comments about it, maybe I should get that equipped on my next MB after moving out to Long Island. 
12-15-2006, 01:07 PM
#10
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 339
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2012 C63 Black Series Coupe
Can you guys tell me -- or post a photo -- of where the Distronic display is on the dash? I like the way the "stock" dash looks, but when you click the Distronic option on mbusa.com, it only shows you a close up of the Distronic readout -- not how it looks with the rest of the dash...
12-15-2006, 06:20 PM
#11
Almost a Member!
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
It's in the center between the speedo and tach. It's the same display that shows if youi are in Park, Drive, etc. The distronic display will come on briefly when you activate it, although you can keep in on by scrolling to it via the steering wheel buttons. It's easy and intuitive to use.
12-15-2006, 07:03 PM
#12
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 339
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2012 C63 Black Series Coupe
It's in the center between the speedo and tach. It's the same display that shows if youi are in Park, Drive, etc. The distronic display will come on briefly when you activate it, although you can keep in on by scrolling to it via the steering wheel buttons. It's easy and intuitive to use.
12-16-2006, 12:45 PM
#13
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Florida
Posts: 422
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
07 ML63; 05 E55 (sold)
ditto the above
coming from an 05 e55, the ML63 is in the same league, slightly slower than the E55 from the hole, but pulls harder and is faster above 80mph. I also feel that the ML has a more solid feel and better exhaust note, and I think the suspension in the sport mode is better (firmer) then the E55. Wife has an 06 Cayenne S with sport exhaust. The ML is a step above in build quality and ride. Cant compare to a TT cause ive never driven one for an extended period.
Options I love are the rear camera, parktronic, bluetooth module, roof rails, and the cargo kit for the back. Oh, and the best is the keyless go.
Best of luck.
coming from an 05 e55, the ML63 is in the same league, slightly slower than the E55 from the hole, but pulls harder and is faster above 80mph. I also feel that the ML has a more solid feel and better exhaust note, and I think the suspension in the sport mode is better (firmer) then the E55. Wife has an 06 Cayenne S with sport exhaust. The ML is a step above in build quality and ride. Cant compare to a TT cause ive never driven one for an extended period.
Options I love are the rear camera, parktronic, bluetooth module, roof rails, and the cargo kit for the back. Oh, and the best is the keyless go.
Best of luck.
12-16-2006, 01:06 PM
#14
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 339
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2012 C63 Black Series Coupe
ditto the above
coming from an 05 e55, the ML63 is in the same league, slightly slower than the E55 from the hole, but pulls harder and is faster above 80mph. I also feel that the ML has a more solid feel and better exhaust note, and I think the suspension in the sport mode is better (firmer) then the E55. Wife has an 06 Cayenne S with sport exhaust. The ML is a step above in build quality and ride. Cant compare to a TT cause ive never driven one for an extended period.
Options I love are the rear camera, parktronic, bluetooth module, roof rails, and the cargo kit for the back. Oh, and the best is the keyless go.
Best of luck.
coming from an 05 e55, the ML63 is in the same league, slightly slower than the E55 from the hole, but pulls harder and is faster above 80mph. I also feel that the ML has a more solid feel and better exhaust note, and I think the suspension in the sport mode is better (firmer) then the E55. Wife has an 06 Cayenne S with sport exhaust. The ML is a step above in build quality and ride. Cant compare to a TT cause ive never driven one for an extended period.
Options I love are the rear camera, parktronic, bluetooth module, roof rails, and the cargo kit for the back. Oh, and the best is the keyless go.
Best of luck.
1. Given a choice, I'd rather have a naturally-aspirated, higher-revving engine. It just feels "sportier" to me and this adds to the aural excitement.
2. It's great to hear your thoughts about build quality; the solidity of my E55 wagon was something I liked, and something the last two BMWs I ownded lacked. Fine cars, just a different feel.
3. I like the idea of a performance car that can be USED. I almost bought a new 911, but realized that it would be kept perfectly polished and used ONLY when I'd be ON A DRIVE. Where we live you can't park something flashy (like a 911) in a parking lot, especially if it's sparkling clean. You'll get "doored" or "keyed". However, the E55 wagon got NONE of that negative attention; I even took it to Costco on several occasions.
4. I thought the E55 wagon was the very best "one vehicle that does it all" out there; then I realized I really need something to pull our motorcycle trailer on occasion. No problem for the ML63...
12-17-2006, 01:50 AM
#15
12-17-2006, 10:49 PM
#17
Member
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: NY
Posts: 96
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
12-18-2006, 08:26 PM
#23
Out Of Control!!
On the MBUSA web site build your own, the price of an ML63 in white with all options listed, except for the rear seat entertainment system, is $93,935US.
That is unless I missed something.
That is unless I missed something.
12-18-2006, 10:13 PM
#25
Out Of Control!!
I will agree with you yhat it can cost $100K.
Base MSRP $86,275
319 Lighting Package $900
864 Dual Screen DVD System $2,800
Cargo Tray And Cargo Box $160
Distronic $3,150
Heated Rear Seats $700
iPod Integration Kit $365
Keyless Go $1,100
Parktronic $760
Roof Rack Basic Carrier $200
Class III Trailer Hitch $500
Wood/Leather Steering Wheel $540
Voice Control $500
Total Price: $97,950
Note: you can't order the Accessory Rear-Seat Entertainment System ($1,595) with the DVD System. If you could, it would be $99,,545. Then add shipping and it definitely would be over $100k. I am glad I have simple tastes and I am going to only have to spend about $94K, minus whatever deal I can get.
Base MSRP $86,275
319 Lighting Package $900
864 Dual Screen DVD System $2,800
Cargo Tray And Cargo Box $160
Distronic $3,150
Heated Rear Seats $700
iPod Integration Kit $365
Keyless Go $1,100
Parktronic $760
Roof Rack Basic Carrier $200
Class III Trailer Hitch $500
Wood/Leather Steering Wheel $540
Voice Control $500
Total Price: $97,950
Note: you can't order the Accessory Rear-Seat Entertainment System ($1,595) with the DVD System. If you could, it would be $99,,545. Then add shipping and it definitely would be over $100k. I am glad I have simple tastes and I am going to only have to spend about $94K, minus whatever deal I can get.
