In our track testing, the ML reached 60 mph from rest far more quickly than the Rover's time (6.7 versus 8.8 seconds); it also bested the Brit handily in the quarter mile. However, we were startled by the excellence of the Rover's brakes, which hauled down the heavier four-door to shorter stops (117 to the ML's 124 feet from 60 mph). We'd also expected a wider gap in slalom performance, but both vehicles registered similar average speeds in the test, which speaks well for the Range Rover's suspension tuning and the value of its optional Dynamic Response electronically adjusted anti-roll bar system ($2000). The larger contact patches of its 19-inch tires also contribute to the Range Rover's ultimate grip levels.
The Mercedes just nipped the Rangie through our slalom course, although their respective 60.5- and 59.8-mph cone dances are essentially a tie. Neither lux/ute boasts the turn-in of a sports car, but here again the ML's relative lightness makes it feel more nimble.
However, the Rover's big tires and active roll-bars help it slice through corners with minimal effort, and its slight rear-biased weight distribution moderates the inevitable understeer when its nose is stuck too quickly into a corner.
The Rover's weight disadvantage poses little problem on the open road except for a slightly less elegant ride. The ML500 has the advantage of the useful "Comfort" mode in the dual-stage Active Damping shock absorbers, part of the optional Air Suspension Package ($1575). Though suave on smooth pavement, the Rover's manners change on uneven pavement, as the body tends to rock gently in response to the suspension's movements, a reminder of the Rover's mass and high center of gravity. The Mercedes remains more squarely planted above the underpinnings when its suspension gets busy. There's also a bit more road noise intruding into the Rover because of its larger wheels and tires. Overall, though, both vehicles are exemplary in keeping thumps and bumps from assaulting the quiet of their finely tailored cabins.
Both also drive "smaller" than their sizes because of excellent steering systems. The Rover's feels a tad more responsive and precise and is particularly helpful for weaving through turgid traffic. It also exhibited superb on-center feel for effortless straight-line control.
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