back in 1996 it was an
immediate huge success. Not only was it a very affordable (by Mercedes standards) sports car – it also offered the unique metal folding roof that made it 2 cars in one. These things were more than
enough to tempt more buyers than Mercedes could ever predict resulting in waiting lists of more than 2 years in some countries.
There were things to criticize about the SLK, though, and they mainly had to do with the lack of power of the 2.0 and 2.3 lt. engines that were initially offered. It wasn't until early 2000 that Mercedes replied
to its critics and introduced a new 3.2 lt. V6 engine producing 225 hp. which definitely provided a much needed power boost. But, hold on because there is more, as Mercedes has just released details
of its new AMG-tuned SLK.
The same 3.2 lt. V6 engine is used, but a supercharger takes power
to really high levels this time: 354 hp and 450 Nm (331 lb.ft) of torque do not sound bad at all. As a result acceleration to 60 mph takes only 5.2 seconds and the top speed is electronically limited to
250 km/h (155 mph). A new AMG-tuned 5 speed automatic gearbox with Tiptronic-style one-touch shift is also used.
AMG has also focused on improving the car's handling and
increasing its driver's involvement (another criticized area in the past). Upgraded brakes, new suspension settings and a few aerodynamic tweaks should do the trick.
In fact former world GT champion Bernd Schneider has helped with the development of the new car and he only has good words to say about the SLK AMG: "This coupé is not only about power. Its
excellent performance and sporty suspension are more than fun, they also give the car a dynamic character while allowing it to remain controllable and viable for everyday use. All these
aspects, as well as the overall concept of the vehicle with its practical Vario roof add, in my view, to the definition of a roadster which is still unique in the way its concept is so logically thought through."
Only 2000 cars per year will be produced with half of them destined for the US market.
It's great to see Mercedes finally making the SLK capable of competing with machines such as
When Mercedes launched the