The 2016 Benz SLK marked a continuation of Mercedes-Benz’s legacy in crafting luxurious and sporty roadsters. Available in several distinct models, each SLK variant offered a unique blend of performance and sophistication. For automotive enthusiasts and potential owners alike, understanding the technical specifications is crucial to appreciating the engineering and design behind these vehicles. This article delves into the detailed technical data of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK lineup, focusing on the SLK300, SLK350, and the high-performance AMG SLK55.
Engine Options and Performance
The heart of any vehicle lies in its engine, and the 2016 Benz SLK offered a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. From efficient turbocharged four-cylinders to potent V8 AMG engines, the SLK lineup delivered across the spectrum.
SLK300 Engine Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | 2.0-liter Inline 4-Cylinder |
| Engine Block Material | Aluminum |
| Cylinder Head Material | Alloy |
| Valve Arrangement | 4 valves/cylinder |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,991 |
| Bore (in.) | TBA |
| Stroke (in.) | TBA |
| Compression Ratio | 9.8 : 1 |
| Horsepower @ rpm | 241 @ 5,500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm | 278 @ 1,200-4,000 |
| Intake System | Turbocharged, Direct Injection |
| Max. Engine Speed (rpm) | TBA |
The SLK300, the entry point into the 2016 SLK range, featured a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine. Despite its smaller displacement, this turbocharged engine delivered a respectable 241 horsepower and a robust 278 lb-ft of torque available from a low 1,200 rpm up to 4,000 rpm. The aluminum engine block and alloy cylinder head construction ensured a lightweight yet durable engine, contributing to the vehicle’s overall efficiency and handling.
SLK350 Engine Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Engine Block Material | Aluminum |
| Cylinder Head Material | Alloy |
| Valve Arrangement | 4 valves/cylinder |
| Displacement (cc) | 3,498 |
| Bore (in.) | 3.66 |
| Stroke (in.) | 3.38 |
| Compression Ratio | 12.0 : 1 |
| Horsepower @ rpm | 302 @ 6,500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm | 278 @ 3,500-5,250 |
| Intake System | Direct-Injection |
| Max. Engine Speed (rpm) | 7,000 |
Stepping up to the SLK350 brought a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine into play. This engine, also built with an aluminum block and alloy heads, produced 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm. While torque remained the same as the SLK300 at 278 lb-ft, it was available across a higher rpm range, from 3,500 to 5,250 rpm. The higher compression ratio of 12.0:1 and direct-injection system contributed to enhanced power delivery and efficiency.
AMG SLK55 Engine Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | 5.5-liter AMG V8 |
| Engine Block Material | Aluminum |
| Cylinder Head Material | Alloy |
| Valve Arrangement | 4 valves/cylinder |
| Displacement (cc) | 5,461 |
| Bore (in.) | 3.86 |
| Stroke (in.) | 3.56 |
| Compression Ratio | 12.6 : 1 |
| Horsepower @ rpm | 415 @ 6,800 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm | 398 @ 4,500 |
| Intake System | Direct-Injection |
| Max. Engine Speed (rpm) | 7,200 |
For those seeking unadulterated performance, the AMG SLK55 was the pinnacle of the 2016 SLK range. It featured a hand-built 5.5-liter AMG V8 engine. This powerhouse generated a substantial 415 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and a commanding 398 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. With the highest compression ratio in the lineup at 12.6:1 and AMG-tuned direct injection, the SLK55 offered exhilarating acceleration and a signature V8 soundtrack.
Performance Metrics Compared
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-60 mph (sec.) | 5.8 | 5.4 | 4.5 |
| Top Speed (mph, limited) | 155 | 155 | 155 (174*) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 25/32/28 | 21/29/24 | 19/28/22 |
*174mph with AMG Development Package
Comparing performance figures, the AMG SLK55 clearly led the pack in acceleration, reaching 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The SLK350 offered a brisk 5.4-second sprint, while the SLK300 still provided a respectable 5.8-second time. All models had a governed top speed of 155 mph, with the AMG SLK55 capable of reaching 174 mph with the optional AMG Development Package. Fuel economy understandably varied, with the SLK300 being the most efficient and the AMG SLK55 prioritizing power over mileage.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Power delivery in the 2016 Benz SLK models was managed by sophisticated automatic transmissions, each tailored to the engine’s characteristics and performance profile.
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | 9G-TRONIC | 7G-TRONIC PLUS | AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Drive Configuration | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
The SLK300 was equipped with the advanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. The SLK350 utilized the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic, refined for both performance and comfort. The AMG SLK55 featured the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS, specifically tuned for quicker shifts and enhanced driver engagement, complementing the V8 engine’s sporty nature. All 2016 SLK models maintained a rear-wheel-drive configuration, a classic layout for roadsters emphasizing driving dynamics.
Suspension, Tires & Brakes
The 2016 Benz SLK chassis was designed for agile handling and confident road holding, with variations in suspension and braking systems across the 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 models came standard with high-performance tires, but tire and wheel sizes varied. The SLK300 used 17-inch wheels, while the SLK350 and AMG SLK55 upgraded to 18-inch wheels, with wider rear wheels on the AMG variant to accommodate its increased power. Specific details on suspension types, steering systems, and brake designs would provide a more complete picture of the chassis engineering.
Exterior and Interior Dimensions & Capacities
The 2016 Benz SLK maintained a consistent form factor across the range, with minor variations in exterior length for the AMG model. Interior dimensions focused on driver and passenger comfort within the roadster body style.
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/MAGIC SKY) | 38.0 (39.1 w/ Pano/MAGIC SKY) | 38.0 (39.1 w/ Pano/MAGIC SKY) |
| Leg Room | 42.5 | 42.5 | 42.5 |
| Shoulder Room | 52.2 | 52.2 | 52.2 |
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 |
The wheelbase and overall width remained consistent across the 2016 Benz SLK models. The AMG SLK55 was slightly longer, likely due to unique body styling. Interior dimensions provided ample headroom, especially with the panoramic roof or MAGIC SKY CONTROL option, and generous legroom for a roadster. Trunk capacity was typical for the segment, with a reduction when the retractable hardtop was stowed. The AMG SLK55 carried a slightly higher curb weight due to its larger engine and performance enhancements, and also featured a larger fuel tank.
Conclusion
The 2016 Benz SLK represented a compelling offering in the roadster market, with each model catering to different preferences in performance and efficiency. From the refined SLK300 to the powerful AMG SLK55, the technical specifications highlight the engineering and attention to detail that Mercedes-Benz invested in this generation of the SLK, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and open-top driving enjoyment. For further details, resources like www.media.mbusa.com offer in-depth information on Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
