Need Help Deciding on Vehicle - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 02-19-2003, 06:54 PM

I am looking for a vehicle for my wife/family. We have two young children (1 month and 2.5 years) and have narrowed our search to a 2002 ML320 or a 2002 MDX. Having a lot of trouble deciding--both have a lot of pros and cons. One of my concerns with the ML is reliability. Other con is size/3rd row seating (hard to find in pre-owned). MDX is supposed to be reliable, highly rated vehicle, with standard 3rd row seat, but it lacks vehicle stability control and some of the other safety features of the ML. Anybody have any thoughts/input?

ML320guy · #2 02-19-2003, 09:39 PM

Here are some thoughts on your dilemma. I have had a 98 ML320 and now a 2000 ML320. I really fell in love with the vehicle when they came out and I had to have one. The 98 was very troublesome (much documentation available.) But, I still loved it so I traded it on the 2000. The 2000 was nearly flawless so far. But, there have been some problems: sunroof rattles, goes through brakes fast (about 20K miles). Expect higher cost of ownership. Before the ML, we owned many Toyotas. Toyota is much better on build quality. I expect that the MDX would rival Toyota. But, If you like prestige, only one comes with the "star" on the front. good luck. please post your decision.

Bayer · #3 02-19-2003, 09:59 PM

Unfortunately the ML is built in Alabama and it looks like it has more Chrysler quality than Mercedes.

A big shame to short sell the Benz name.

The ML's have gotten a little better with less electrical issues as the 98 and 99 models, but still fall short to what you might expect of a real Benz.

The MDX has a lot higher re-sell value than the ML, not a surprise , the market does not forgive lack of quality.

If you have the money, don't want any headaches and don't mind a more feminine looking SUV, go with the MDX. If you want a more masculine SUV go with the 430 not the 320.

.... and this advise is coming from a German.

Good Luck!

tabo · #4 02-19-2003, 10:31 PM

I like the ML alot more, the MDX is overpriced just like any ACURA is.. and the ML you can get 3rd row seats anytime. . it only costs $2,000 canadian dollars at any mercedes benz dealership.. you can find DIY install on www.benzworld.org. for the money I'm spending, I rather pay the same to own a benz (I will buy more benz in the future) than some HONDA with the acura name on it. in fact I find the MDX outlook rather not appealing. just my thought..

Bayer · #5 02-19-2003, 10:59 PM

I did the same and went for a two year old ML 430.

The MDX is priced higher as the re-sell value and quality are a lot better.

Unfortunately the Alabama made Mercedes are not very solid, lots of hardware integridy problems and other annoying issues, but with a bit of patience and this great forum, most things can be fixed.

You'll have a good warrantee package for 50K miles or 4 years whatver come first, and that will help you.

Resell value expectation around 50% of new pirce within 2 to 3 years, is rather poor for a Benz. That's more like Mitsubishi!!!

My ML 430 cost new 46K in Oct 2000, I bought it for just over $23K at an auction with 55K miles.

Have fun with your Benz!!!

Gilly · #6 02-19-2003, 11:58 PM

From a personal standpoint, I want you to think about the possibility of either an ML or an MDX getting even a fairly low speed impact from the rear with your children in the 3rd row seat. NOT a pretty thought. I would discount the presence of the 3rd row in the MDX, or adding one to an ML. No way I'd want to use it.

Gilly

G-Benz · #7 02-20-2003, 02:07 PM

Interesting point!

I wonder about what would happen if an inattentive Excursion owner blasts me from the rear!

The option of purchasing a third row seat was appealing to me, but we stopped at one child, so I never got one...room for the motorcycle on trips is a better proposition!

#8 02-20-2003, 04:21 PM

The real question is... do you really want an SUV? Keep in mind that the MDX uses a mini van platform. It is the same as Honday Odyssey. You may say a MDX is an Odyssey with bigger wheels.

gsamuelson · #9 02-20-2003, 08:34 PM

I owned a vehicle with a third row seat. Dealer said it was a must have item and would enhance resell. BS!

The seat ended up in my basement collecting cob webs and dust. It was never used and a PITA to move about.

Furthermore, the seats are usually so low to the floor that they are not comfortable for anyone to sit in. The comfort level of the seat is also not there.

The seat also takes up cargo space and there is never enough of that.

The other good point brought up is why would you want you kids to sit way back there and risk being killed if you get rear-ended?

The third row seat is a marketing ploy and not worth the money, time or effort. Don't let it guide your purchase.

PaulH · #10 02-23-2003, 10:40 PM

Let's keep it simple! Don't get any vehicle without stability control ! PERIOD! Especially an SUV with high center of gravity. Have a good day.

gsamuelson · #11 02-23-2003, 11:07 PM

Personally, I prefer not to have all the electronic stuff and use my own skill and experience to drive. Electronics are just great until they dont work and sooned or later, they won't.

About the only time you have to worry about a high center of gravity is when you are driving too fast for the exisitng conditions and end up in a sideways slide. Prudent use of power and common sense will help avoid those situations. Unfortunately, judging by all the fools on TV flipping their SUV's in the snow, common sense is still not all that common.

Palangi · #12 02-23-2003, 11:20 PM

We got rammed from behind in a Toyota 4 Runner about a year and a half ago. The 4 Runner did a complete 360 degree barrel roll and came up on its wheels with the roof caved in. Pretty much cured me of vehicles with high center of gravity.

tabo · #13 02-24-2003, 12:11 AM

Check your email, you want a '69 unimog convey truck? $16,000 canadian dollars takes it =P Its taking too much space in my yard. it was a Ex convoy for troops.

gsamuelson · #14 02-24-2003, 02:16 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Palangi
We got rammed from behind in a Toyota 4 Runner about a year and a half ago. The 4 Runner did a complete 360 degree barrel roll and came up on its wheels with the roof caved in. Pretty much cured me of vehicles with high center of gravity.

So I guess next time you have a car accident you'll be riding the bus from now on huh?

get a grip!

gsamuelson · #15 02-24-2003, 02:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by tabo
Check your email, you want a '69 unimog convey truck? $16,000 canadian dollars takes it =P Its taking too much space in my yard. it was a Ex convoy for troops.

I bought a 404 once for $5,500 and sold it, I don't think I need another. If you notice my signature, I already own a 416 DoKa. Thats about all the Unimog I need for now.

I don't have any 3 row seats for sale.