The BMW X5 and Mercedes ML off-road models have significant differences, which, once felt, will make it much easier for the future car owner to decide on the choice of a vehicle to purchase. What are the differences?
BMW X5 and Mercedes ML: sensing the difference
The initial generations of these car models were produced with a focus solely on the American market as the main consumer of vehicles in this class. This led to the majority of their production being carried out overseas.
However, there are ML SUVs that were produced at plants in Austria and Ukraine. According to experts' assurances, there is no significant difference in their construction, as almost ready-made cars were delivered to the plants, and only assembly was carried out.
The difference in versions intended for sale in European countries lies in the presence of an elongated stamping under the license plate on the trunk lid with horizontal orientation, as well as optical devices with European light distribution type, and corresponding car stereo settings.
To support consumer demand, both car models underwent modernization. Besides changes, the X5 model saw improvements in the technical components. Changes were made to the drive system — the more advanced xDrive provided the vehicle with improved stability and increased off-road performance in challenging road conditions.
Similarities and Differences Between BMW X5 and Mercedes ML
Both models, the BMW X5 and the Mercedes ML, were produced in the same body type, a 5-door estate. However, their constructions were already different. The ML body, similar to classic SUVs, is mounted on a robust ladder frame, the same as used in the «older brother» — Mercedes G-class.
The X5 model, on the other hand, has a monocoque body, with subframes at the front and rear suspension mountings. The metal in both car variants has reliable corrosion protection, and if they have not been involved in an accident, no signs of rust can be found even on the earliest produced vehicles.
The ML is more practical — it can accommodate up to 7 passengers, as it is possible to install a third-row of seats in the trunk if needed. The X5 models, on the other hand, are only five-seaters. The interior comfort and styling will not disappoint, thanks to the rich equipment.
The presence of various servo drives, related to mirrors, seats, and windows, central locking and air conditioning system, airbags, cruise control, traction control and stability systems, power steering, and interior trim using leather materials, becomes more of a rule than an exception for these models.
However, most German-made cars have slightly more sophisticated features. One of their peculiarities is the installation of a climate control system instead of an air conditioner, as well as the integration of special microchips in the ignition key, containing all the information about the car.
Moreover, they can store the driver's personalized settings for the driver's seat, steering wheel, and mirrors. Additional functions of the braking system aim to enhance stability and provide more efficient deceleration during emergency braking, automatic speed regulation when descending, and pneumatic suspension. The presence of a navigation system and a TV is also common.
A drawback of the X5 model can be the presence of wide front pillars, as they partially obstruct the driver's view when making turns, and getting into the rear seats is not easy due to the narrow lower part of the door opening. ML models produced before restyling are characterized by creaking interior details made of plastic. Cars manufactured after 2001 have a leather interior trim, significantly improving quality.
BMW X5 and Mercedes ML, Who is Faster
The powertrain of these SUVs and their orientation are best reflected in their power units. The difference in German-made cars lies in the increased engine capacity, providing better automotive dynamics.
For example, the most popular engine with a capacity of 4.4 liters and a power of 286 hp allows a 2095 kg vehicle with an automatic transmission to accelerate to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds for the X5 model. The ML competitor, with a total weight nearly 70 kg less, reaches 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds.
The engine modernization of the X5 increased its power to 320 hp, and the acceleration dynamics improved by 0.5 seconds. This is why enthusiasts of dynamic driving should pay attention to the Bavarian model, while those who prefer a leisurely and measured driving style should opt for the Stuttgart car.
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Rural Roads or Highways
Even though both vehicles have all-wheel-drive systems, the ML is more adapted for off-road driving. The main difference from the X5 is that the transfer case of the Stuttgart model is equipped with a low-range gear, allowing for more confident movement off-road.
Thanks to the transmission in the ML, the torque is distributed equally between the axles. Another system, the 4 ETS, acts as a replacement for inter-axle differential locks, slightly braking the spinning wheels, redistributing to those with better road contact.
Although this electronic simulator on pre-facelift versions had some delay, leading to the buried spinning wheel. In models produced after 2001, it worked much faster.
On X5 models before the facelift, the all-wheel-drive system is almost similar, with the only difference in torque distribution. After modernization, the car was equipped with the xDrive system.
Its feature was the replacement of the mechanical center differential with a multi-disc clutch and electronic control. The principle of simulating inter-axle locks remained unchanged. The result was an improvement not only in off-road but also in driving qualities — the car gained high stability, especially when entering turns.
Another parameter ensuring confidence when driving the ML is the ground clearance of 200 mm, which is 15 mm more than the X5. However, driving off-road on them should be done carefully, as specialized vehicles are more suitable for such terrain.
Most cars of both models are equipped with automatic transmissions, which do not always demonstrate flawless performance. Drivers with high activity may experience malfunctions after just 150 km, such as:
- friction burning,
- loss of hydraulic pump efficiency,
- «shearing» of the primary shaft due to excessive loads.
It should also be noted that even with careful use of the automatic transmission in the X5, the maximum service life is 300,000 kilometers, after which costly repairs will be required.
The ML model has different types of problems — after passing 200,000 kilometers, it is advisable to replace the bearings on the shafts. After 120-150 kilometers, a check of the suspension bearings of the driveshaft is necessary, which are subject to high wear by the specified mileage.
Additionally, due to the high amount of road salt in winter, the electric actuator for engaging low gear, located beneath the body, may fail.
The orientation of the BMW X5 and Mercedes ML off-road models is aimed at different categories of drivers. The BMW X5 is the most optimal choice for enthusiasts of active driving, as almost all technical components are tuned for this purpose. However, there is also a high risk of purchasing a worn-out specimen.
The Mercedes ML, on the other hand, will appeal to those who appreciate leisurely driving and a high level of comfort during the trip.
