The Slk Mercedes, a renowned name in the world of roadsters, embodies a blend of luxury, performance, and open-top driving pleasure. For automotive enthusiasts and potential owners seeking in-depth technical information, understanding the specifications of different SLK models is crucial. This article delves into the technical data of the SLK Mercedes, comparing the SLK300, SLK350, and the high-performance AMG SLK55 variants to provide a comprehensive overview.
Chassis and Vehicle Type
The foundation of any vehicle lies in its chassis and body construction. All models within the SLK range discussed here share fundamental characteristics in this aspect:
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | 2-door, 2-passenger roadster | 2-door, 2-passenger roadster | 2-door, 2-passenger roadster |
| Chassis | Steel unibody | Steel unibody | Steel unibody |
As seen in the table, the SLK Mercedes models are consistently designed as a 2-door, 2-passenger roadster, built upon a robust steel unibody chassis, ensuring structural rigidity and safety.
Engine Specifications: Powering the SLK Mercedes
The heart of the SLK Mercedes lies in its engine, and each model boasts a distinct powertrain option catering to different performance preferences. Let’s examine the engine specifications in detail:
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder | 3.5-liter V6 | 5.5-liter AMG V8 |
| Engine Block Material | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Cylinder Head Material | Alloy | Alloy | Alloy |
| Valve arrangement | 4 valves/cylinder | 4 valves/cylinder | 4 valves/cylinder |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,991 | 3,498 | 5,461 |
| Bore (in.) | TBA | 3.66 | 3.86 |
| Stroke (in.) | TBA | 3.38 | 3.56 |
| Compression ratio | 9.8 : 1 | 12.0 : 1 | 12.6 : 1 |
| Horsepower @ rpm | 241 @ 5,500 | 302 @ 6,500 | 415 @ 6,800 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm | 278 @ 1,200-4,000 | 278 @ 3,500-5,250 | 398 @ 4,500 |
| Intake system | Turbocharged, direct injection | direct-injection | Direct-injection |
| Max. engine speed (rpm) | TBA | 7,000 | 7,200 |
The SLK300 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering a balanced combination of efficiency and power. Stepping up, the SLK350 is equipped with a larger 3.5-liter V6 engine, naturally aspirated and direct-injected, offering increased horsepower and a smoother power delivery. For ultimate performance enthusiasts, the AMG SLK55 houses a formidable 5.5-liter AMG V8 engine, also direct-injected, producing significantly higher horsepower and torque figures for exhilarating acceleration and driving dynamics. All engine blocks and cylinder heads are constructed from aluminum alloy, contributing to weight reduction and improved thermal efficiency.
Performance Metrics: Acceleration and Speed of the SLK Mercedes
Performance figures are key indicators of a sports car’s capabilities. Let’s compare the acceleration, top speed, and fuel economy of the SLK Mercedes models:
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-60 mph (sec.) | 5.8 | 5.4 | 4.5 |
| Top speed (limited) (mph) | 155 | 155 | 155 (174*) |
| Fuel economy: city/hwy/comb. | 25/32/28 | 21/29/24 | 19/28/22 |
*174mph with AMG Development Package
The performance table highlights the progressive increase in speed and acceleration as you move from the SLK300 to the AMG SLK55. The AMG SLK55 stands out with a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 4.5 seconds. While all models have a limited top speed of 155 mph, the AMG SLK55 can reach 174 mph with the optional AMG Development Package. Fuel economy naturally varies, with the SLK300 offering the most economical figures due to its smaller, turbocharged engine.
Transmission and Drive Configuration
The transmission system plays a vital role in translating engine power to the wheels. Here’s a comparison of the transmissions used in each SLK Mercedes model:
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | 9G-TRONIC | 7G-TRONIC PLUS | AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G- TRONIC PLUS |
| Drive Configuration | – | – | – |
| Gear ratios | – | – | – |
| 1st Gear | – | – | – |
| 2nd Gear | – | – | – |
| 3rd Gear | – | – | – |
| 4th Gear | – | – | – |
| 5th Gear | – | – | – |
| 6th Gear | – | – | – |
| 7th Gear | – | – | – |
| 8th Gear | – | – | – |
| 9th Gear | – | – | – |
| 1st Reverse Gear | – | – | – |
| 2nd Reverse Gear | – | – | – |
| Final drive | – | – | – |
The SLK300 is equipped with the advanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth and efficient gear changes. The SLK350 and AMG SLK55 utilize the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Notably, the AMG SLK55 features the AMG SPEEDSHIFT variant, tuned for sportier and quicker gear shifts to match its high-performance nature. Detailed gear ratios and drive configuration specifics are not provided in the original data.
Suspension, Tires & Brakes: Handling and Stopping Power
For a roadster, handling and braking are paramount. Let’s examine the suspension, tires, and brake specifications of the SLK Mercedes models:
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suspension type | – | – | – |
| Steering | – | – | – |
| Steering Ratio | – | – | – |
| Turning Circle | – | – | – |
| Standard Tire | High-Performance | High-Performance | High-Performance |
| Standard Front Tire Size | 225/45 R17 | 225/40 R18 | 225/40 R18 |
| Standard Rear Tire Size | 245/40 R17 | 245/35 R18 | 245/35 R18 |
| Standard Front Wheel | 7.5J X 17 | 7.5J X 17 | 7.5J X 18 |
| Standard Rear Wheel | 8.5J X 17 | 8.5J X 17 | 9J X 18 |
| Front Wheel Brake design | – | – | – |
| Rear Wheel Brake design | – | – | – |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter (in.) | – | – | – |
| Front Brake Disc Thickness (in.) | – | – | – |
| Rear Brake Disc Diameter (in.) | – | – | – |
| Rear Brake Disc Thickness (in.) | – | – | – |
All SLK Mercedes models are equipped with high-performance tires as standard. The SLK350 and AMG SLK55 feature larger 18-inch wheels compared to the SLK300’s 17-inch wheels, potentially enhancing handling and aesthetics. Specific details regarding suspension type, steering, turning circle, and brake designs and dimensions are not available in the provided data.
Exterior and Interior Dimensions
The size and space of a vehicle impact its practicality and comfort. Let’s compare the exterior and interior dimensions of the SLK Mercedes models:
Exterior Dimensions (inches)
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 95.7 | 95.7 | 95.7 |
| Length | 162.8 | 162.8 | 163.2 |
| Width including mirrors | 79.0 | 79.0 | 79.0 |
| Height | 51.2 | 51.2 | 51.2 |
| Track width front | 61.4 | 61.4 | 61.0 |
| Track width rear | 61.6 | 61.6 | 61.7 |
Interior Dimensions (inches)
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headroom (top up) | 38.0 / 39.1 w/ Pano or MAGIC SKY | 38.0 / 39.1 w/ Pano or MAGIC SKY | 38.0 / 39.1 w/Pano or MAGIC SKY |
| Leg room | 42.5 | 42.5 | 42.5 |
| Shoulder room | 52.2 | 52.2 | 52.2 |
The exterior dimensions are largely consistent across the SLK range, with minor variations in length and track width. Interior dimensions, including headroom, legroom, and shoulder room, are identical across all three models, ensuring a similar cabin space experience for occupants. Headroom can be slightly increased with the optional panoramic roof or MAGIC SKY CONTROL feature.
Capacities: Trunk Space, Weight, and Fuel Tank
Practical aspects also include cargo capacity, vehicle weight, and fuel tank size. Let’s compare these capacities:
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trunk Capacity (roof up/down) (cu.ft.) | 10.1/6.4 | 10.1/6.4 | 10.1/6.4 |
| Curb weight (lbs.) | 3,417 | 3,417 | 3,583 |
| Fuel tank (gallons) | 15.9 | 15.9 | 18.5 |
Trunk capacity remains the same for all models, offering 10.1 cubic feet with the roof up and 6.4 cubic feet with the roof down. Curb weight is slightly higher for the AMG SLK55 due to its larger engine and performance-oriented components. The AMG SLK55 also features a larger fuel tank capacity, allowing for a greater driving range despite its higher fuel consumption.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal SLK Mercedes
This technical overview provides a detailed comparison of the SLK300, SLK350, and AMG SLK55 Mercedes models. The SLK300 offers a balanced entry point with a fuel-efficient yet powerful turbocharged engine. The SLK350 steps up with a naturally aspirated V6 for a smoother, more powerful driving experience. For ultimate performance, the AMG SLK55 delivers exhilarating power and dynamics with its V8 engine and AMG enhancements. Choosing the right SLK Mercedes depends on individual preferences and priorities, whether it’s fuel economy, balanced performance, or outright power.
For further information about the Mercedes-Benz SLK range and other models, please visit www.media.mbusa.com.
