The Mercedes-Benz W163 M-Class, particularly the AMG ML 55 variant produced from 2001 to 2005, represented a significant step for Mercedes-Benz into the burgeoning luxury SUV market. Positioned as the high-performance flagship of the first-generation M-Class lineup, the ML 55 aimed to deliver a compelling blend of on-road performance and off-road capability, appealing to buyers seeking a sportier alternative to the standard M-Class models like the ML 320 and ML 430. The facelifted W163, introduced in 2001, brought styling updates and refinements to the original 1997 design, enhancing its overall appeal. This model was primarily sold in North America, Europe, and select other markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M-Class |
| Generation | M-Class (W163, facelift 2001) |
| Type | AMG ML 55 V8 (347 Hp) 4MATIC 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 20.6 l/100 km (11.4 US mpg, 13.7 UK mpg, 4.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg, 24.8 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.8 l/100 km (15.9 US mpg, 19.1 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 354 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 347 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 2800-4500 rpm (376.16 lb.-ft.) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.981 |
| Engine displacement | 5439 cm3 (331.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt, 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12 l (12.68 US qt, 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2225 kg (4905.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2870 kg (6327.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 645 kg (1421.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk space (min) | 633 l (22.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk space (max) | 2020 l (71.34 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 93 l (24.57 US gal, 20.46 UK gal) |
| Trailer load (braked) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Towbar download | 135 kg (297.62 lbs.) |
| Length | 4635 mm (182.48 in.) |
| Width | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Width (with mirrors) | 2126 mm (83.7 in.) |
| Height | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Ride height | 189 mm (7.44 in.) |
| Drag coefficient | 0.39 |
| Turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 27° |
| Departure angle | 26.5° |
| Climb angle | 31° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Safety systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering | Steering rack and pinion, Hydraulic Power Steering |
| Tire size | 285/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the ML 55 is the M113.981 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s performance offerings in the early 2000s, features a three-valve-per-cylinder SOHC design and multi-port fuel injection. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design (compared to later forced-induction engines) contributed to its reliability. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was specifically tuned to handle the engine’s substantial torque output. This transmission offered smooth shifts but lacked the responsiveness of some contemporary manual transmissions or later automatic designs. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and all-wheel-drive system (4MATIC) provided balanced handling and traction.
Driving Characteristics
The ML 55 delivered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the base M-Class models. The 347 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque provided brisk acceleration, with 0-60 mph times consistently in the 6.5-6.8 second range. While not a sports car, the ML 55 felt powerful and capable on the road. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent grip in various conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the ML 430 (with its 4.3L V8), the ML 55 offered a significant power boost, resulting in a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The ML 55 was considerably quicker than the six-cylinder ML 320, but at the expense of fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ML 55 came standard with a generous array of features, befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio options. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, emphasizing luxury and comfort. The ML 55’s interior was noticeably more refined than the base M-Class models, with higher-quality materials and more attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The ML 55 utilized a fully independent suspension system with double wishbones at both the front and rear, incorporating transverse stabilizers to reduce body roll. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The suspension was tuned to balance ride comfort with handling performance. The ML 55’s chassis was reinforced compared to the standard M-Class to handle the increased power and torque. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The ML 55 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted the relatively high fuel consumption and the somewhat dated feel of the 5G-TRONIC transmission. Compared to rivals like the Porsche Cayenne (introduced later), the ML 55 offered a more traditional luxury SUV experience, prioritizing comfort and refinement over outright sportiness. The ML 55’s fuel economy was significantly worse than the ML 320 and ML 430, but buyers were willing to accept this trade-off for the added performance.
Legacy
The M113 engine powering the ML 55 is known for its durability and reliability, provided it receives regular maintenance. While not immune to age-related issues, the engine is generally considered robust and capable of high mileage. Today, the ML 55 represents an interesting entry point into the world of high-performance luxury SUVs. Used examples are relatively affordable, but potential buyers should be aware of potential maintenance costs associated with a vehicle of this age. The ML 55 remains a popular choice among Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts seeking a unique and capable SUV with a distinctive V8 soundtrack.
