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. The SLK R170 was first produced in 1996, and its fans were immediate. Sales out of the gate started at 50,000 units. Though, time and other competitors moving forward aged the SLK. The car was going up directly against the Audi TT, unfavorably. Furthermore, time was dating its technology.

The SLK’s hard top is noticeably its best piece of engineering, while the engine is clunky. The steering was borrowed from the C-class, the recirculating ball, which wasn’t the best choice.

Going head-to-head against other cars in its segment, the TT Roadster, the BMW Z3, and the Alfa Romero Spider, the SLK R170 still visually is the winner. 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 innovative hard top follows in the footstep of the Mitsubishi 3000 GT Spyder, Peugeot 206cc, Lexus SC, Mercedes SL Class, and the Chrysler Sebring.

the 2/3 liter Kompressor came out in 2000 to take on these initial problems and provide new improvements. This car gained extra power, different styling on the body, and improved handling. The engine fixed some of its initial roughness. Mercedes also improved the transmission, making it smooth shifting. 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 evolutionary, not revolutionary. The Mercedes SLK R170 is still an impressive car that puts a lump in the throat.

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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.