sorry all, but I just HAVE to get my $0.02 in.
I think it would be safe to say that this is a debate which will go on as long as the 500E/E55 debate has (if not, longer).
something to remember, and this may have already been brought out in an earlier post, is that the designs and purposes of the ML vs. G are radically different. do not forget that the G-wagen was initially conceived as a millitary vehicle for the Shah of Iran (or so I've heard. Someone please correct me if I'm mistaken.) and the ML was designed as a consumer vehicle for the North American market. Also keep in mind that there are a couple of decades in between the inception of both vehicles.
This is not unlike a comparison between a Jeep CJ/YJ/TJ and a Jeep XJ/Cherokee. this is not to say one is better than the other...just different and geared (no pun intended) toward particular and different markets with a little bit of an overlap. We'd probably have as much luck debating the attributes of a Land Rover over a Range Rover.
That having been said, I'm quite familliar with off-roading having owned a pair of Jeep YJ's with 33's, additional skid plates, redone gearing, dual ARBs, winch, etc, etc, etc... PERSONALLY, I prefer the G over the ML. Mainly because I feel the build quality is superior and I'm into the more technical aspect of off-roading.
I realize it's a bit of siting on the fence, but I think both models have their respective places in the market. I just prefer one over the other.
BTW, congrats to all submitters to this thread for maintaining a lively and FRIENDLY debate. Most debates of this nature have a tendency to degenerate into mud-slinging fests and name calling, but you all have maintained your poise while taking part in defending your points of view. Well done!
That all having been said, several years ago I saw several pics in an Off-roading mag that were of, among other vehicles, a white, 5-door G-wagen with 35" BFG MT's and it looked pretty wicked.