The Mercedes-Benz ML500 was a variant of the W163 M-Class that was introduced for the 2002 model year. The ML 500 replaced the W163 ML430, and was powered by Mercedes' M113.964 engine. This 5.0L V8 engine had an output of 288hp and 325 lb ft of torque which was sent to all four wheels via a 5 speed automatic transmission. Production of the W163 Mercedes-Benz ML500 ended in 2005, but the model series would continue in the next generation M-Class as the W164 Mercedes-Benz ML500 4MATIC.