Mercedes-Benz M-class W164 ML 420 CDI (306 Hp)
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz M-class:
The Mercedes-Benz GLE, formerly Mercedes-Benz M-Class , is a mid-size luxury SUV produced by the German manufacturer Mercedes-Benz since 1997. In terms of size, it is slotted in between the smaller GLC and the larger GLS, the latter with which it shares platforms.
The first-generation M-Class, designated with the model code W163, is a body-on-frame SUV and was produced until 2004. The second-generation M-Class moved to a unibody platform while sharing most components with the GL-Class, which sports a longer body to accommodate third-row seating....(Read more on Wikipedia)
W164 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz M-class (W164). With 700 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2315 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.8 s). The top speed reaches 225 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The W164 M-Class demonstrated excellent adult occupant protection, achieving a top 5-star rating in Euro NCAP tests, highlighting Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety.
ML 420 CDI (306 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
An exceptionally powerful V8 diesel, delivering immense torque and rapid acceleration, rivaling many petrol V8s while offering superior pulling power.
Fuel Economy
Remarkably efficient for a V8 diesel with this level of performance, offering a good balance between power and fuel economy.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Luxurious and spacious interior with high-quality materials
- • Wide range of powerful and refined engine options (petrol and diesel)
- • Comfortable ride quality, especially with optional Airmatic suspension
- • Strong off-road capability for a luxury SUV
- • Excellent safety features and Euro NCAP rating
Cons:
- • High fuel consumption for petrol V8 models
- • Complex electronics can lead to costly repairs and maintenance
- • Some known engine reliability issues (e.g., M272/M273 balance shaft, OM642 oil cooler)
- • Large turning circle can make maneuvering in tight spaces challenging
- • Significant depreciation from new
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W164: 2005 - 2008).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | M-class |
| Generation: | W164 |
| Modification (Engine): | ML 420 CDI (306 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2006 |
| End of production: | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | SUV |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 306 Hp @ 3600 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 76.6 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 700 Nm @ 2000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | OM 629 DE 40 LA More details about the engine OM 629 DE 40 LA |
| Engine displacement: | 3996 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity: | 11.5 l |
| Coolant: | 12 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 14.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 11.1 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 4 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 225 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.6 kg/Hp, 132.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 3.3 kg/Nm, 302.4 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2315 |
| Max. weight: | 2945 |
| Max load: | 630 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 2050 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 551 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 95 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4780 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1911 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1815 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2915 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1627 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1629 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 255/55 R19 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |






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