Mercedes-Benz M-class W164 ML 500 (388 Hp) 4MATIC


Overall Rating

8.3 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.5 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 530 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2185 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 5.8 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2008
Adult Occupant 95%
Stars 5
Expert Note:
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 (388 Hp) 4MATIC Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Excellent V8 power delivery, offering robust acceleration and effortless cruising. A true performance SUV with impressive on-road dynamics.

Fuel Economy

As expected for a large V8, fuel consumption is high, especially in urban driving, but acceptable for its performance capabilities.

Best Use Case: Highway cruising / Enthusiast driving

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: 2006 - 2008).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:M-class
Generation:W164
Modification (Engine):ML 500 (388 Hp) 4MATIC
Start of production:2007
End of production:2008
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:388 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:78.1 Hp/l [8mm more]
Torque:530 Nm @ 2800 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 273.963 More details about the engine M 273.963
Engine displacement:4966
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:9 l
Coolant:12 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) - urban:17.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:10 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:12.8 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 4
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:5.8 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:5.8 sec
Maximum speed:250 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:5.6 kg/Hp, 177.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.1 kg/Nm, 242.6 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:5.5 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2185
Max. weight:2830
Max load:645
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2050 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:551 l
Fuel tank capacity:95 l
Size:
Length:4788 mm [8mm more]
Width:1911 mm [Same width.]
Height:1840 mm [25mm more]
Wheelbase:2915 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1627 mm
Rear (Back) track:1629 mm
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size255/55 R19
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionSpring Strut

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