High-Performance ML55 AMG Sport-Utility Now on Sale
29 December 1999
High-Performance ML55 AMG Sport-Utility Now on Sale; World's Fastest SUV Puts The 'Sport' Into 'Sport-Utility' MONTVALE, N.J., Dec. 29 -- Mercedes-Benz USA announces that
the new high-performance ML55 AMG is now on sale for $64,900. This
highly-anticipated Mercedes-Benz super sport-utility puts the sport in
sport-utility vehicle. Never before has an SUV been so fast, so luxurious, or
handled so well.
Available in limited numbers in early 2000, this latest M-Class model has
been engineered in conjunction with AMG, Mercedes' long-time high-performance
and racing arm.
The ML55 AMG is the latest variant of the highly successful ML320 and
ML430 models. It satisfies a very specific automotive consumer: one who
appreciates the high performance capabilities of a sports car, the luxury of a
fine sedan, and the utility of an off-road recreational vehicle. With a
specially-crafted aluminum V8 engine pumping out 342 horsepower and
376 lbs.-ft of torque, the ML55 AMG has a top speed over 140 mph and can
travel from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, making it the world's fastest
sport-utility. Performance statistics such as these are usually reserved for
only the highest-performance sports cars. Additionally, the ML55 AMG's
four-wheel-drive capabilities and ample ground clearance give it the agility
to traverse a snowy highway or gravel country road.
Bambi Meets Godzilla, Courtesy of AMG
Mercedes-Benz recently purchased a majority interest in AMG, the German
firm that has for over 30 years specialized in turning standard Mercedes-Benz
models into high-performance coupes, sedans and station wagons. Now, as a
partner, Mercedes and AMG turn out specialized cars with all the quality,
attention to detail and performance under one umbrella. AMG's motor racing
arm has also won numerous international championships, like the 1997 and 1998
FIA GT crown with the Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR.
Engines, drivelines and suspension components specific to the ML55 AMG
arrive at the M-Class production facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, directly
from AMG's headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany.
The ML55 AMG can be easily identified by its muscular physique. Hefty
five-spoke, 18-inch wheels and low-profile 285/50 R18 tires are covered by
sleek fender flares. Clearly visible through the wheels, red brake calipers
(for most body colors) not only provide a fitting accent but also identify the
ML55 brakes -- special 13.6-inch vented discs in front and 13.5-inch discs at
the rear.
Unique rocker panels add to the athletic look. Integrated fog lights are
built into the front air dam and a special panel continues the bumper line
across the liftgate. "Power domes" on the front hood hark back to the
legendary Mercedes 300SL Gullwing and roadster of the 1950s, and twin chrome
exhaust tips also hint at the power underhood.
Hauling The Bacon With 342 Horses
The heart of the ML55 is a potent 5.5-liter V8 engine, pumping out
342 horsepower. This engine is unique right down to the block. It uses an
aluminum V8 block cast by AMG, yet retains some of the Mercedes-Benz V8
internal dimensions such as cylinder bore spacing and location of the main
bearings. The large displacement is the result of a special forged-steel
crankshaft with 8mm longer throws for each piston and connecting rod, which
brings overall displacement from the Mercedes-built V8 of 4,966cc to 5,439cc.
As well, the AMG engine's cylinder bores are 7.1mm larger in diameter than the
standard Mercedes-Benz-cast V8. The crankshaft is dynamically balanced, and
pistons and connecting rods are selected for each engine in equal weight-
matched sets. The result is a smooth, low vibration powerplant that produces
a massive 376 lbs.-ft. of torque.
To feed the larger displacement, AMG modifies the original magnesium
intake manifold with a wider cross-section to increase airflow. As in the
standard Mercedes manifold, the AMG version features long intake passages that
spiral around to each cylinder. Flaps inside the manifold stay closed below
about 3,700 rpm, forcing intake air to take a long route, building up pressure
waves which boost flow and improve low- and mid-range torque. The flaps open
above 3,700 rpm, allowing intake air to take a shorter, more direct route to
the cylinders for maximum high-rpm power.
The ML55 engine uses a special electronic control unit to manage the
larger V8, and fuel injectors have been matched to the increased airflow. The
ECU fires the fuel injectors, controls ignition timing and determines
precisely when the manifold flaps open and close.
The AMG engine retains the twin-sparkplug/three-valve, single-overhead cam
design of the standard Mercedes-Benz 5.0-liter V8, but replaces the standard
camshafts with new modular cams and installs higher-tension valve springs.
The hollow construction of the standard camshafts makes them light, yet the
AMG cams are even lighter. Valve sizes are the same as the stock V8, but the
AMG cams provide longer valve duration for increased power.
The Power of a Clydesdale, the Speed of a Cheetah
Harnessing all that horsepower and torque is a full-time four-wheel-drive
system providing 50/50 front/rear torque distribution. One of the most
innovative and versatile in the SUV market, the M-Class 4WD system uses front,
center and rear "open" differentials that require no driver intervention.
As with all M-Class models, the ML55 AMG stands apart from most other SUVs
because it does not lock its axles in an attempt to maintain traction on
slippery or loose surfaces. Instead, the M-Class employs an advanced
electronic full-time four-wheel traction control system. To maintain
traction, the system senses slip and applies the brakes on the slipping wheel,
which transfers the right amount of torque to those wheels with the most grip,
on virtually any road surface. The M-Class system provides mobility even when
three wheels lose traction. A two-speed electronically controlled transfer
case gives all M-Class models true off-road capability.
Using traction control rather than locking differentials also aids
maneuverability on any surface. In slippery or off-road conditions, the
benefit of the full-time four-wheel-drive system is obvious. Yet even on dry
roads, the system makes its presence known by giving the M-Class models
secure,eutral handling characteristics.
The extraordinary Electronic Stability Program (ESP) helps drivers
maintain directional stability, especially on slippery or gravel-covered roads
by preventing oversteer (rear-end "fishtailing") or understeer (front-end
"plowing"). ESP can sense impending loss of control -- at either end of the
car -- then momentarily applies the brake on one wheel to restore stability,
something that even a skilled driver cannot do.
SUV Utility, Passenger Car Comfort and Safety
The interior of the ML55 AMG more closely resembles that of a luxury sedan
than a go-anywhere, do-anything sport-utility vehicle and sets a new standard,
even for M-Class interior features. Thickly bolstered sport seats are
finished in supple leather contrasted by dark burl walnut trim. The armrests
and console storage are leather covered, as is a portion of the walnut and
leather AMG steering wheel. The ML55 instrument cluster features
chrome-ringed gauges with white analog faces, while the center console holds a
large display featuring an integral navigation and audio system which is set
up for easy add-on of a digital StarTAC integrated portable phone and/or
six-disc CD changer. AMG-embroidered floormats complete the picture.
Beneath the elegance lies a cocoon of safety. Mercedes-Benz M-Class
sport-utility vehicles introduced the concept of crash-compatibility to the
SUV segment. Unlike most sport-utility vehicles, the M-Class frame is also
designed so that it will not override a passenger car's body structure in a
collision. Such compatibility can lessen the severity of frontal impacts
between vehicles of different categories.
Although the M-Class uses a body-on-frame design, the dynamics of its
crash protection are roughly equal to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class luxury sedan,
which has unibody construction. In addition to a front crumple zone built
into the nose of the vehicle, the M-Class incorporates a special structure
around the windshield pillars. In a severe collision, this extra crumple zone
can actually help dissipate some of the energy around the sides of the
vehicle, providing even more protection for the occupants of both the M-Class
and a colliding vehicle.
All M-Class models are equipped with advanced four-channel, four-wheel
anti-lock brakes, dual front airbags, the BabySmart automatic seat recognition
system, and this year, side impact airbags in all four doors as well. The
front and rear outboard seatbelts are equipped with both emergency tensioning
retractors and belt-force limiters, and this year, the second-row center seat
also has a three-point belt.
A Chassis Designed for Safety and Performance
The chassis forming the foundation of all M-Class vehicles sets new SUV
standards for ML55 performance, comfort and safety. The M-Class has a unit
body mounted to a strong separate frame with closed, twist-resistant
box-profile sections. The two longitudinal and three transverse frame cross
members are welded together for exceptional strength and torsional rigidity.
Suspension subframes and ten rubber body mounts provide isolation from road
shocks and noise.
The M-Class features independent front and rear suspension, unusual in its
segment. Many SUVs have only independent front suspension, while some even
use solid axles front and rear. Four-wheel independent suspension provides
class-leading handling, stability and ride comfort, both on and off road. The
Mercedes M-Class also uses rack-and-pinion power steering, and a tight 37-foot
turning circle gives the M-Class exceptional maneuverability on any road.
Moving Cargo in Luxury
All M-Class models were developed with passenger comfort, cargo room and
versatility in mind. The ML55 AMG, as well as the ML320 and ML430, feature
the largest side doors in their category, along with a low 18-inch step-in
height to make getting in and out of an M-Class much easier than most SUVs.
Its 111-inch wheelbase is among the longest in its segment, while the rear
seat has ample head, leg and shoulder room for three passengers, thanks in
part to a relatively flat floor. For added versatility, all M-Class models
for 2000 come with a new 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, with a center
armrest.
As with all M-Class models, the ML55 AMG comes equipped with a generous
level of standard equipment: air conditioning with dust and pollen filtration;
a high-performance 80-watt Bose audio system; cruise control; tilt steering
column; power windows with express-down in the front; rear wiper; dual heated
power side mirrors; an outside temperature gauge; Homelink-compatible
universal garage door opener; alloy wheels; four-way head restraints; carpeted
floor mats; pre-wiring for CD changer and phone; roof rails and a retractable
cargo cover.
All 2000 Mercedes-Benz models come with a four-year/50,000-mile warranty,
which includes tires, batteries and adjustments for the full coverage period.
Regularly scheduled maintenance during the vehicle's entire warranty period is
also now free of charge. In addition, the 24-hour Mercedes-Benz Roadside
Assistance program covers all Mercedes vehicles, regardless of model year.
This peace of mind can include a free jump-start, a few gallons of fuel or
mounting the spare tire, even for those driving a decades-old Mercedes.
