Mercedes SLK Roadster 2004 - Present

The Mercedes SLK comes with a host of decent engines and a stunning hard top folding roof.  The SLK is supremely well built and features great finish throughout it’s cabin.  As with other Mercedes models it doesn’t come cheap but with a waiting list for new models the used market supports re-sale values well. 

The bods at Mercedes have created, in the SLK, a convertible that can be driven roof down all year round.  The cockpit has been designed to be almost draught free.  In addition to this there are optional heated seats, and this is the best bit, heating vents built into the neck of the seats to warm around your head, the result is a tropical paradise, unless it’s raining.  The finish is typically Mercedes standard and offers great fit and finish, with quality throughout the cabin; the switchgear is logical and feels built to last as long as the crocodile.

Under the bonnet, Mercedes have made their biggest investment over the last decade or two and the engines on offer throughout the SLK range are all excellent from the bottom to top of the range.  There are three engines to choose from; 2.0L, 2.8L and the 3.5L.  Performance levels are good throughout the range with 0 – 60 times between 8 – 5.2 seconds and top speeds from 140 – 155 mph.  Economy figures are also reasonable ranging between 26 - 36 mpg.  The engines offer power throughout the rev range, not from quite as low down as you’d expect from a diesel, but a wide distribution nonetheless.

The SLK saves it’s real attention to detail to the handling and roadholding.  The result is a car that’s great to drive and handles in a neutral and natural manner.  It corners like it’s on tracks and feels like the weight of the car is always pointed towards the road rather than the direction of the corner.  It makes the whole experience of driving a real treat.

The SLK is another great two seater from Mercedes that comes with a wide range of fast, yet versatile engines.  No it’s no cheap but what did you expect, if you’re buying on price buy a Ford Streetka, if you’ve got the money test drive an SLK, you may never look back.

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