Good morning friends.

I have always being a fan of Mercedes products though I haven’t being privileged to own one. However, I’m at the verge of purchasing one for my self and need to make a choice between GL 450 and ML 350 both 2009 models.

Can anyone with experience on both models enlighten me on likely issues of both models and why it seems GL 450 versions are fewer on our roads. I appreciate your candid feedbacks from our legends in the house. Thank you.

What ever the issue is......I'm buying one of them

My Luv for this car is unconditional

dedonfranco:
What ever the issue is......I'm buying one of them

My Luv for this car is unconditional

Lolz…whichever way, you’ll still need to get the best value for your money. Mods can you help push to front page so we can get some enlightened views and opinions from users of these cars. Thank you.

Psychokinetic:

Benz models from 2009 below are gas guzzlers. Add a bit more money and go for 2010.

Wow…. Never knew. Thanks for the feedback.

ML 350

MASTAkiLLAh:
ML 350

Any reason for preferring this option?

I'd asked a question like this a while back and got very little feedback, so I'd like to help.

The main reason why the GL Benz is unpopular is that the model has a low reliability rating, particularly in respect of its air suspension, which many reports say has a high propensity to fail. The ML Benz uses a spring suspension (shock absorber) while the GL Benz uses an air suspension (air bag). I hear that back in the day, replacing damaged air suspensions could cost about N500k each, which is probably what gave it a bad reputation in the first place. However, I hear that the price has come down considerably to about N100k for each suspension, which may still be considered high considering that the GL air suspension has a high propensity to fail, coupled with our bad roads in Nigeria. Imagine having to replace a air suspension every 4 or so months. Plus, if your air suspension gives way completely, you cannot continue to drive the car and will have to get it towed, unlike a spring suspension which you can "manage" and drive the car to the mechanic. The spring suspension for the ML is cheaper to replace, though I can't say exactly how much it is. If you speak to Benz mechanics, they'll tell you that an ML is cheaper to maintain than the GL.

The GL has a larger fuel tank and if you buy the V8 model, that means you're spending more money on fuel all round.

Also, some people view the design of the older GL benz as bogus and find the sportier design of the ML more appealing. The newer GL (called the GLS) has a more sporty design but costs much more than the older GL.

is there no way the air suspension of the GL can be canverted to spring, since it is one of the major problems of the car?
Also what about the transmision, is it reliable?