3/13/20 77/100 Mercedes-Benz ML430

Introduced to the ROW market in 1999, the ML SUV from Mercedes-Benz arrives in the U.S. line for 2000 in all-purple with silver headlights and three-point star.  Matchbox did wait a bit to release a replica of Mercedes first U.S. built uni-body SUV for the V8-powered ML430 instead of the ML320 that everyone else was releasing in replica.  (Did I mention that Matchbox was the first to release the ML replica as the AAV SUV used in “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” set?)  The front has a smooth look with teardrop headlights and a lower plastic bumper, while the sides show a smooth profile with tall roofline and running boards, while the rear has a smooth liftgate, V-shaped taillights, and a trailer hitch for towing.  The base shows off the drivetrain details that includes rear-wheel drive with full-time four-wheel drive and 5-spoke wheels, in two different designs) in conjunction with a working suspension.  This SUV handles great and does fine in light off-roading, and with the V8 power can haul lots of stuff.  The interior includes seating for five, a detailed dashboard with 4-spoke steering wheel, and an open sunroof for the front passengers.  This ML got some more uses later on, but not as much as it should have, plus these earlier releases in solid colors are the best of this casting.

Specifications:

· Engine: 4.3L SOHC V8, 270 hp est.

· Transmission: 5-speed automatic

· 0-60 mph: 8.0 sec. est.

· Real vehicle price: $40,000 est. 2000

Rating:  5 out of 5 stars