Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Mercedes-Benz M-class W164 ML 500 (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 406 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2100 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 6.9 s). The top speed reaches 235 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 500 (306 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Strong V8 performance for its time, offering ample power for highway and towing, though superseded by the later 388hp version.
Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption is high, typical for an older generation V8, and slightly less efficient than the newer 388hp variant.
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(W163, facelift 2001: 2003 - 2005).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | M-class |
| Generation: | W164 |
| Modification (Engine): | ML 500 (306 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2005 |
| End of production: | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | SUV |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 306 Hp Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 61.6 Hp/l [142mm more] |
| Torque: | 406 Nm @ 2700 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 113.964 More details about the engine M 113.964 |
| Engine displacement: | 4966 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 3 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 8.5 l |
| Coolant: | 10 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 97 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 84 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 13.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 235 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.9 kg/Hp, 145.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.3 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2100 |
| Max. weight: | 2830 |
| Max load: | 730 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 2050 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 551 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 95 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4780 mm [142mm more] |
| Width: | 1911 mm [71mm more] |
| Height: | 1815 mm [5mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2915 mm [95mm more] |
| 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 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
Is it love at first sight with the Mercedes-Benz M-class? Tell us your story!