The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster offered a blend of sporty performance and luxurious open-top driving. Available in several distinct models, each catered to different driving preferences, from efficient cruising to high-performance thrills. This article delves into the technical specifications of the 2016 SLK range, providing a detailed look at what made each model unique.
Engine Options and Performance of the 2016 Mercedes SLK
The 2016 Mercedes SLK lineup featured a range of engines, each delivering a unique driving experience. The base model, the SLK300, was equipped with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine. This aluminum block and alloy head engine, featuring 4 valves per cylinder and direct injection, was also turbocharged for enhanced power delivery. It produced 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 278 lb-ft of torque, available across a broad rev range from 1,200 to 4,000 rpm. This translated to a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.8 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph, while still achieving a combined fuel economy of 28 mpg.
Stepping up in performance, the SLK350 boasted a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. Also constructed with an aluminum block and alloy heads and incorporating direct injection and 4 valves per cylinder, this engine delivered a more potent 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and the same 278 lb-ft of torque, but peaking higher in the rev range from 3,500 to 5,250 rpm. The increased power allowed for a quicker 0-60 mph sprint of 5.4 seconds, maintaining the same 155 mph top speed limit and offering a combined fuel economy of 24 mpg.
For drivers seeking maximum performance, the AMG SLK55 was the pinnacle of the 2016 SLK range. It housed a hand-built 5.5-liter AMG V8 engine. This powerhouse, with its aluminum block and alloy heads, direct injection, and 4 valves per cylinder, unleashed a formidable 415 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 398 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The result was a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 4.5 seconds. While officially limited to 155 mph, the AMG Development Package option could raise the top speed to an impressive 174 mph. Fuel economy for the AMG SLK55 was rated at 22 mpg combined.
Transmission and Drive Configurations
The 2016 Mercedes SLK models also differed in their transmission systems. The SLK300 featured the advanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, contributing to its efficiency and smooth power delivery. The SLK350 utilized the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. The high-performance AMG SLK55 was equipped with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS, a performance-oriented version of the 7-speed automatic, engineered for faster gear changes and enhanced driver engagement. All 2016 SLK models were rear-wheel drive, befitting their sporty roadster character.
Chassis, Dimensions, and Capacities of the 2016 SLK
All 2016 Mercedes SLK models shared a robust steel unibody chassis and maintained similar dimensions, emphasizing their compact roadster design. The wheelbase was consistent at 95.7 inches, with the SLK300 and SLK350 measuring 162.8 inches in length, while the AMG SLK55 was slightly longer at 163.2 inches. Width, including mirrors, was 79.0 inches across the range, and height remained at 51.2 inches. These dimensions contributed to the SLK’s agile handling and sporty stance.
Interior dimensions provided a comfortable space for two occupants, with headroom of 38.0 inches (or 39.1 inches with the panoramic roof or MAGIC SKY CONTROL), legroom of 42.5 inches, and shoulder room of 52.2 inches across all models. Trunk capacity offered 10.1 cubic feet with the roof up and 6.4 cubic feet with the roof down, providing practical storage for a roadster. Curb weight varied slightly, with the SLK300 and SLK350 at 3,417 lbs and the heavier AMG SLK55 at 3,583 lbs, reflecting its larger engine and performance enhancements. Fuel tank capacity was 15.9 gallons for the SLK300 and SLK350, and slightly larger at 18.5 gallons for the AMG SLK55, accommodating its higher fuel consumption during spirited driving.
In conclusion, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster offered a compelling range of models, each with distinct technical specifications tailored to different performance needs and driving styles, all while upholding Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for luxury and engineering excellence. For more detailed information, you can visit www.media.mbusa.com.
