The sporty acronym comes from Sporty, Light, and Short (or Kurz in German). This car, the SLK R170, was Mercedes first attempt at a smaller version of its SLK sports car. The SLK R170 appeared first in 1996 to legions of fans. The SLK was a sales powerhouse, starting with 50,000 units in its first production year. 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.
When compared to rivals, the TT Roadster, the BMW Z3, and the Alfa Romero Spider, the Mercedes SLK 170 still stands out with its sex appeal. While the engine was uninspiring, they say North American drivers wanted the better gas millage over the power.
The Mercedes SLK R170 was the first Mercedes with a retractable hardtop. 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 address these initial nits. This newer SLK took on some extra power under the hood, refined body styling, and lost some of its body weight. The engine is smooth and doesn’t stutter when idling. Mercedes did make upgrades with the transmission, making shifting smooth as silk. A six-speed transmission was installed, which came over straight from the E-class. If you wanted an automatic, then you were stuck with only five gears. Going with the top down still invites all of the backlash, needing a windscreen. Also, the chassis was improved for a smoother ride and safety improvements.
These changes are small and minor over time. The Mercedes SLK R170 is a classic car that holds up well with time.
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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.
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