March 10th, 2010 by

The sporty acronym comes from Sporty, Light, and Short (or Kurz in German). The SLK R170 was a smaller and lighter version of Mercedes SL sports car. In 1996, the SLK R170 first appeared to raving fans. The initial sales started with a very respectable 50,000 units. However, time and competition aged this car. The Audi TT, its closest competitor, was starting the gain the edge. Then, it was looking stale when compared to the rest of the pack.

The SLK’s electrical hard top remains an interesting feature, but its engine is reviewed as rough and harsh. The steering was borrowed from the C-class, the recirculating ball, which wasn’t the best choice.

Making comparisons to members of its class, the TT Roadster, the BMW Z3, and the Alfa Romero Spider, the SLK wins hands down with its body lines. While its engine wasn’t as powerful as the others, this is preferred by North American drivers who desired relaxed driving styles.

The Mercedes SLK R170 was one of the first retractable hardtop convertibles. Although going with the top-down, you should still be equipped with a windscreen. This automated, retractible hard top follows the likeness of the Mitsubishi 3000 GT Spyder, Peugeot 206cc, Lexus SC, Mercedes SL Class, and the Chrysler Sebring.

To address the shortcomings, the 2/3 liter Kompressor came out in 2000. This car has more power, a body make over, greater refinement, and is more agile in handling. The engine now has a better idle. Mercedes did make upgrades with the transmission, making shifting smooth as silk. A new six speed transmission was installed, straight from the E-class line. There was an automatic option, providing five speeds. Putting the top down makes you drown in wind, unless you have a need a windscreen. Furthermore, the chassis got a long needed upgrade with a smoother ride and safety enhancement.

These changes are subtle, adding up to nothing revolutionary. The Mercedes SLK R170 still draws the raves.

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When the author isn’t driving her SLK around, she’s a fan of the Mercedes Benz SLK windscreen windblocker wind deflector, the psychic readings, and theSeattle HCG Diet.