Hi Dean,
Welcome the the viper pit
I think that there is an underlying theme here. It may be hard to spot with all of the other stuff being thrown in there but, there is a theme.
I see the ML in a similar light as you do. I have repeatedly stated that the ML is a great vehicle. It is the best in its class IMO. But its class is the new generation of on road 4x4s. Fully independant suspensions, traction control systems, low step in hieght, carlike road manners. Nothing wrong with that, never said there was.
Some of my opponents in the "argument" seem to think that the ML is as good, or in some cases a better vehicle for off-road use. Now of course we enter the question, what do we define as "off-roading". For my side, I use the term to describe what most americans define off-roading as, whether it be in Jeeps, Landcruisers, or a G-Wagen. It is low speed obstacle hopping, mountain climbing, exploring type of off-highway travel. This is something the G was clearly designed for from the outset and, it excels at it.
Some in the ML crowd are trying to make the case that the ML fits the bill for this niche. I disagree, it is much more of a road car and far to compromised for that role to be able to compete with the likes of the G in any serious off-roading.
Now we have another camp saying that because of the MLs success in FIA rallying, the ML is a BETTER off-road vehicle. That form of racing really has no practical application for the masses, and certainly not for the general publics intended use of either vehicle. Besides, I suspect that after a race like that the ML is reduced to a quivering bowl of jello, thrown away, and replaced. Again, hardly a rational, practical comparison.
In a sense you are correct. Those of us driving G-wagens do so to meet a certain set of needs, real or perceived. Same goes for the ML folks. Nothing wrong with that. I have just been trying to impress upon the ML guys that there is a vast difference between the two vehicles, on many fronts. I keep being told otherwise, that the ML is a near match to the G. That is why this continues to around and around.
The tough part about this is that I am basing my opinions on my real world experience and, first hand experience of others. I feel that the ML guys are reading from a book, without any real experiences of their own regarding off road adventures. We keep inviting them to come out and play
So far no takers, that is very telling in its own right.
I will be OK with the whole thing when I get an admission that the ML is no match for the G off-road. I am willing to conceed that the G is no match for the ML on the road. See, different strokes! I just get a littel tired of being told I don't know what I am talking about by someone with no experience, when I have been living it for years. Do you see the conflict now?