The Mercedes-Benz M-Class, a luxury SUV, was first introduced in 1998. For those considering a 99 Mercedes Benz Suv, particularly the ML 320 model, understanding its safety features and crash test performance is crucial. It’s important to note that Mercedes-Benz implemented structural improvements to enhance occupant protection in frontal crashes for all M-Class models manufactured after March 1999. This article delves into the safety ratings of a 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320, focusing on models built after these crucial structural changes.
Understanding the IIHS Frontal Offset Crash Test
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted a frontal offset crash test on a 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320 4-door 4wd to evaluate its crashworthiness. This test simulates a real-world scenario where a vehicle impacts a deformable barrier at 40 mph, offset from the center. The purpose is to assess how well the vehicle protects occupants in a common type of serious collision. The evaluation considers various factors, including the structural integrity of the vehicle, driver injury measures, and the effectiveness of restraint systems.
1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320 Safety Rating: “Good” Overall
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320, specifically models produced after March 1999 incorporating the structural enhancements, achieved an overall evaluation of “Good” in the IIHS frontal offset crash test. This “Good” rating is the highest possible, indicating a strong level of crash protection for occupants in this type of accident.
This rating is based on a comprehensive assessment of several key criteria, detailed below:
Structure and Safety Cage: “Good”
A critical aspect of vehicle safety is the integrity of the structure and safety cage. In the 1999 ML 320 test, this crucial component also earned a “Good” rating. This signifies that the structural design of the SUV effectively maintained its integrity during the crash, providing a solid protective shell around the occupants. A robust safety cage is paramount in preventing serious injuries by minimizing intrusion into the occupant compartment.
Driver Injury Measures: Detailed Assessment
The crash test also meticulously measures potential driver injuries across different body regions. The 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320 demonstrated varying levels of protection in this area:
- Head/Neck: Rated “Acceptable”. This indicates a moderate risk of injury to the head and neck region.
- Chest: Rated “Good”. The chest area showed good protection, suggesting a low risk of significant chest injuries in a similar frontal offset crash.
- Leg/Foot (Left & Right): Both left and right leg/foot areas were rated “Good”. This is a positive outcome, indicating good protection for the lower extremities, which are often vulnerable in frontal collisions.
Driver Restraints and Dummy Kinematics: “Good”
The effectiveness of driver restraints, including seatbelts and airbags, and the dummy kinematics (how the dummy moves during the crash) are crucial for mitigating injuries. The 1999 ML 320 received a “Good” rating in this category. This suggests that the restraints worked effectively in controlling the dummy’s movement and minimizing contact with жесткие interior components, contributing to overall occupant protection.
The image above illustrates the dummy’s position relative to the steering wheel and instrument panel after the crash. This demonstrates that the driver’s survival space was indeed maintained well, thanks to the robust structure and effective restraints of this 99 Mercedes Benz SUV.
Technical Measurements: Intrusion and Injury Data
Beyond the qualitative ratings, the IIHS test also provides precise technical measurements of occupant compartment intrusion and driver injury measures.
Occupant Compartment Intrusion: Minimal intrusion is vital for maintaining survival space. The measurements for the 1999 ML 320 are as follows:
- Footwell Intrusion: Intrusion ranged from 6 to 12 cm across different footwell points, indicating minimal footwell intrusion.
- Instrument Panel Rearward Movement: Only 1 to 2 cm of rearward movement, also minimal.
- Steering Column Movement: Upward movement of 3 cm and rearward movement of 1 cm, again, limited movement.
- A-pillar Rearward Movement: Just 2 cm, showing good structural integrity.
Driver Injury Measures (Specific Metrics):
- Head Injury Criterion (HIC-15): 308 (lower is better).
- Neck Tension: 2.4 kN.
- Chest Compression: 42 mm.
- Femur Forces (Legs): Left 3.5 kN, Right 1.8 kN (lower is better).
These technical measurements provide a deeper understanding of the forces and impacts experienced by the driver dummy during the crash test, further substantiating the safety performance of this 99 Mercedes Benz SUV.
The minimal footwell intrusion, as shown in the image, is a testament to the strong structural design of the 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320, contributing significantly to the safety rating.
Conclusion: The 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320 as a Safe Used SUV Option
Based on the IIHS frontal offset crash test results, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320 (models built after March 1999) demonstrates a “Good” overall level of safety in this specific type of crash. While the head/neck injury measure is “Acceptable,” other critical areas like structure, safety cage, chest, legs/feet, and restraint systems are rated “Good.” For those considering a 99 Mercedes Benz SUV in the used car market, particularly the ML 320, this safety data provides valuable insights into its crashworthiness. It is always recommended to ensure any used vehicle considered is thoroughly inspected and maintained to uphold its safety features.
