1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML320 4dr SUV AWD
I have just traded in my 1999 ML320. We had a rocky relationship but it did last 12 years so it was not all bad. Frankly I loved the basic design, drive and utility of the vehicle. Maintenance was very very expensive and reliability reminded me more of GM than Mercedes. However, it never failed to start except when the battery died every four or five years so it did serve as reliable transport. So many little and bigger things required maintenance however that it was simply not economical to own and would have been cheaper to walk away from four or five years ago than to keep on the road. I finally threw in the town when the transfer case started acting up and repair was over 5 grand
Flexible cargo space. Comfortable highway ride and competent off road ability. Comfortable driving position and seat.
The 1998 and 1999 MLs were simply maintenance nightmares. Mercedes should have had a multi thousand owner loyalty program for ML owners. They didn't and I now own a fine Japanese replacement (CX9 Mazda) that is more reliable and way less to maintain. All for 20K less than the new ML.