Swap my ML350 for a 2003 E320Cdi Estate?

[hawk20]

Probably right

I took long enough finding this one. Thing is either I'm missing something or the E class doesn't seem 'that' much more comfortable etc than what I have? I drove 850 miles one day from Annecy to Chester and it did it with no problems and in torential rain storm near reams the ML felt very safe. Its just as I have the option and got me thinking.


Some larger wheels are STILL required on mine and maybe treat it to some other bits and bobs

I think you are right. In normal driving, in normal traffic, you won't find that much difference.

Odd thing is that the ML is an incredibly comfortable car. I had to drive non-stop for over 6 hours one day in my ML and I felt really fine. Sitting high up is maybe more natural and promotes better blood flow that sitting almost on the floor as we do in most modern saloons.

Bigger wheels will spoil the ride on the ML (as they do on nearly everything). And of course they look wrong on 4x4's because wide low profile tyres give lousy grip off road and aquaplane much more easily.

BTW on safety, Dept of Transport figures show that if you have a head-on crash you are fifty times more likely to survive in a 4x4 than you are in the average saloon. And the top four safest included the ML.

 

[A210AMG]

I know big wheels are useless in the wet, snow, mud etc and don't help the ride but ever since I bought mine I think they are just too small.

Given my millage (aprox 6K to 7K a year) and the fact that mine see's a puddle if its lucky then I'm still tempted.

 

[gbjeppm]

Hi A210.

I am with Gucci keep the ML, yours is a great spec.

The E class is a great car too though.

 

[st4]

Odd thing is that the ML is an incredibly comfortable car. I had to drive non-stop for over 6 hours one day in my ML and I felt really fine. Sitting high up is maybe more natural and promotes better blood flow that sitting almost on the floor as we do in most modern saloons.

Depends on how you sit, I sit as low as the seat can go and bolt upright. A low seating position is good but not for everyone. The 211 has a huge range of adjustment and the seat can be raised very high to give that "sat on an office chair" type of driving position.

BTW on safety, Dept of Transport figures show that if you have a head-on crash you are fifty times more likely to survive in a 4x4 than you are in the average saloon. And the top four safest included the ML.

In the event of a crash yes, but a low down car is much less likely to roll over 11% do in RTA's vs 44% of suvs. I'd argue the higher grip levels, the greater awareness of speed in a lower car would mean you are less likely to get to the stage of a RTA in the 1st place.

 

[jaymanek]

We have always had an ML for our family use.. a few weeks ago i sold it our latest one.. plan is just to get a year or two newer..

feels like a lost limb at the moment... We really struggle as we need a car that will comfortably carry 5 adults but is also a daily driver for my mum.
We took it for granted.. so practical..

Of course ive never been a massive fan of how it drives, a normal car is much better.. but you cant have it all now..

 

[Adam230K]

I bought and drove back (340miles) an ML270 cdi the other day for a friend, 2003 facelift elegance trim with ALOT of toys, and i have to say, having been driven in a 211 i prefer that.

I do like that high-up ride feeling though... but my preferences for that car end there.