Overland Classifieds :: 2001 Mercedes ML430

I’ve been on a mission to feature bargain rigs listed on our forum. Recent examples include this $8,000 1994 Ram 2500 with Alaskan camper, an $8,500 2000 Mitsubishi Montero, and a $6,000 1997 Isuzu Trooper. However, today’s 2001 Mercedes ML430 is the cheapest to date at just $3,500 OBO. This may not be the first 4WD that comes to mind when we think about overlanding, but that’s not to say it’s not a valid option. In fact, I went down a rabbit hole looking at various ML430s and discovered these vehicles have something of a cult following with no shortage of adventure-ready builds. Furthermore, despite traditionally being considered a mall crawler, this Mercedes is a genuinely capable 4WD, as demonstrated by the Offgrid Nomads and Hobbyjunky. In addition, I’d argue that when a vehicle is this affordable, you won’t worry about the odd dent or pinstripe and will subsequently be inclined to explore rugged backcountry areas and thus enjoy more hard-to-reach camp spots. Finally, I recently discussed the many advantages of micro-campers, and the Mercedes is another candidate for a minimalist conversion. Today’s 2001 offering has covered 164,163 miles and is the perfect blank canvas for an adventure build.

From the Seller:

Not your typical AWD vehicle. I am selling this for my friend who is retiring to Thailand next month. See photos for wear and tear, but it is in overall good condition for a 2001 Mercedes. It has a clean California title, and it just passed smog.”

2001 Mercedes ML430

The ML430 is fitted with a 4.3-liter motor that produces 268 horsepower, 288 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 16 mpg. A V8 engine is mated with impressive all-terrain capability thanks to AWD, low range, traction control, and more. These rugged credentials are balanced with a luxurious interior that includes the following driver comforts:

  • Air conditioning
  • Cruise control
  • Heated leather seats
  • Premium audio
  • Remote keyless entry

Distinguishing Features

This vehicle is stock with no aftermarket features to note.

This 2001 Mercedes ML430 is listed for $3,500 and is currently located in Lomita, California. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.

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No money in the bank, but gas in the tank. Our resident Bikepacking Editor Jack Mac is an exploration photographer and writer living full-time in his 1986 Vanagon Syncro but spends most days at the garage pondering why he didn’t buy a Land Cruiser Troopy. If he’s not watching the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, he can be found mountaineering for Berghaus, sea kayaking for Prijon, or bikepacking for Surly Bikes. Jack most recently spent two years on various assignments in the Arctic Circle but is now back in the UK preparing for his upcoming expeditions—looking at Land Cruisers. Find him on his website, Instagram, or on Facebook under Bicycle Touring Apocalypse.