2007 328xi Versus Mercedes ML350

[Bob J]

I hate to say this (and I am new to this forum), I gave up my 530xi for a new ML350. Nice car, the ML is, but it's not a Beemer. So I am now looking at a 328xi, but will take it in the shorts on the trade. Can anyone comp the ML versus the 328xi for me? Any insights would be appreciated.

[Kevlar]

The ML is an SUV ... the 328xi is a car. You are essentially comparing apples to sundried rasins.

[AzzMan]

Kev got it right. Do you need all the extra room the SUV provides? Is the ML even AWD? I don't actually know.

They're really completely different and there are far too many variables to just outright compare the vehicles (not cars).

[mbanks21]

Screw apples and raisins, thats like comparing a tricycle and a blimp.

[AzzMan]

If you seriously wanted to get into accurate analogies, it's most like an EVO to a Grand Caravan.

[BavariaMotorist]

Ok...Maybe I can be of assistance.

I never owned a 328xi but I have owned a 325xi 2006 and my stepmother owns a 2006 ML350 which I drive sometimes.

The ML350 is very soft steering, not good handling at all. It can reach a fairly high top speed (I got it up to 130) but it does not accelerate well and the pedals feel kind of spongy.

We've had many mechanical problems and cosmetic problems with the ML. Has not been that good to us.

The interior is nice, but the leather kind of stinks. You get the LCD screen standard even without NAV.

The "button shifters" in the manual mode do NOT work well at all. They do not respond when asked to shift.
Also, it's a very feminine car. I usually only see women driving them.


Ok now for the 325xi. Despite being a pig cause of the heavy AWD, the 325xi is an amazing handler with tight steering and zippy acceleration. I was impressed how a seemingly under-powered engine could make this thing seem so quick.

The interior is not that nice and leather does not come standard, nor do power seats. It's not a very luxurious car really unless you want to spend some dough.

The back seat is adequate but not large and comfortable. The trunk is good enough for shoving groceries into and maybe a couple suit cases.

Bottom line: ML is nice for soccer moms that drive 15mph in 25mph zones, and the 328 is a sporty yet practical car.


If I had to choose, the 328 wins hands down. The ML is not what I expected it to be.

[Bob J]

many thanks to bavariamotorist for the insightful comments. i could have done without most of the initial comments that were not at all helpful.

[SilverBeam]

www.edmunds.com allows you to compare the aspects of both vehicles. i suggest you go drive them and compare them yourself.

[windnsea00]

BMW>MBZ
/thread

[propr`one]

I dont understand why so many people go for 4wd cars. I live in canada, and i dont need a AWD car.


save some cash, buy a 335i.

/thread