2003 BMW X5 4.6is vs. 2003 Mercedes ML55 AMG

Anyone familiar with current Mercedes-Benz products will feel right at home in the ML55. The suspension has been lowered 0.3 in. from standard MLs and is softer than the BMW, not hindering the ML55's ability to safely cross unpaved terra firma. The independent front suspension utilizes torsion bars and shock absorbers, while the rear has a double-wishbone independent setup. Each corner uses 285/50R18 tires, and the relatively tall sidewall helps soften rough surface impacts. But it also compromises handling. Slalom tests cast each vehicle in a different light. The sport-heavy X5 carved up the cones at 63.13 mph, while the ML55 danced through at only 59.99 mph. "Only" is a relative term, as the ML55 will still outpace 99 percent of all SUVs. While the ML55 used 130 ft to stop from 60 mph, the X5 needed only 117.

One disappointment with the M-B was the high level of wind noise seeping into the cabin at freeway speeds. For $66,545, we expected a quieter interior. The non-telescopic steering wheel is another. A third is the large spare tire mounted in the cargo area which eats up too much valuable space, though the rear's low lift height is appreciated.

The ML55 impresses with its well-honed drivetrain. The TouchShift manual gear-change feature of the excellent five-speed automatic is a delight to use. A full slate of electronic aids are included, such as Electronic Stability Program, traction control, and Brake Assist System. Top speed is electronically limited to 146 mph, a moot point here in the States. Pushing the low-range button on the dash helps the ML55 clamber out of situations that would leave some SUVs awaiting a tow strap.

Both the X5 and ML55 have a button allowing the driver to "defeat" the stability program, but pushing it simply raises the level when it kicks back in. The BMW has a higher threshold before the computer intervenes than the AMG, allowing the X5 to be placed in a more radical attitude before electronics rein in the fun.

Verdict? These high-profile products from a pair of premier German automakers will find their way into different garages. Just don't buy one expecting the other. The X5 buyer will relish the visceral responsiveness, a sport sedan in all but physical dimensions. The ML55 was a state-of-the-art performance SUV when it debuted, and it still offers off-roading the BMW doesn't even pretend to. Yet in the real world, noting how these types of automobiles will likely be used, the X5 4.6is would be the one we'd be writing the (large) check for as best in this admittedly unique class.