The trip computer in the 2000 ML has an interesting mode where it gives me instantaneous miles/gallon readout. It will also show the average miles per gallon.

My question is regarding the accuracy of this computer, because if it is accurate then my driving habits must change.

What I see is this: on "normal" acceleration, the computer shows anywhere from 7.5 - 8.1 miles/gallon. If I "baby" it, it still only shows about 8-9 mi/gl?? If I stomp on int the mileage is high 6's to low 7's.

All these readings seem relatively correct, however, if they are accurate, I think you can see that there is little point to feathering the pedal.

So my techie friends, what gives?

Ed,
I am no techie, but I can tell you that your readings are accurate. What balances out these high acceleration MPGs is the coasting and coming to a stop.
So it's normal!! :)

Hey David,

Wassup? Since no one else could answer any better than you, you're promoted to Techie!

If you're right, then there is no real way to economize on acceleration in this vehicle. I might as well stomp on it for the 2mi/gl difference.

The next ML you see moving 0-60 in eight seconds or so, could be me... :cool:

Ed,
Thanks for promoting me... that'll go on my resume!

Yeah, I know, when you have a trip computer and you look at acceleration it's really bad. But when you're coasting it's nice, because it can say anywhere from 30 mpg to 99 mpg down a long hill!! So look at it when you're not on the gas.

BTW, will you be attending the next SoCA Mercedesshop meeting? Date and Location TBD. Def. on a wkend though!