Mercedes-Benz, a brand synonymous with luxury and prestige, decided to shake off its perceived stuffiness and appeal to a younger demographic. This strategic shift led to the creation of the SLK-Class, a roadster that injected a dose of playfulness and sporty appeal into the Mercedes lineup. The 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK Class built upon the successful foundation laid in its initial release, offering refinements and enhanced features that solidified its position as a desirable and innovative vehicle in the competitive roadster market.
The Revolutionary Retractable Hard Top
One of the most distinguishing features of the 1999 SLK-Class, and a significant departure from its rivals like BMW and Porsche, was its retractable steel roof. This innovative design provided the best of both worlds: the open-air thrill of a roadster and the secure, coupe-like feel of a hardtop sedan when closed. With the simple push of a button on the center console, the SLK-Class could transform from a closed coupe to an open roadster in seconds. This feature not only enhanced security and weather protection but also gave the SLK-Class a unique selling point in the roadster segment.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Mercedes-Benz delivered a compelling driving experience with the 1999 SLK-Class, striking a balance between sporty agility and refined comfort. The steering was praised for its precision, offering responsive feedback that connected the driver to the road. The engine, described as “eager and willing,” provided ample power and torque across a broad rpm range, making the SLK-Class enjoyable in various driving conditions, from navigating city traffic to spirited drives on winding roads. The well-damped suspension further contributed to the driving pleasure, absorbing bumps and imperfections while maintaining composure and control. The 1999 SLK-Class could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over seven seconds, a respectable figure for its class. While some reviewers felt the exhaust note could be more aggressive, Mercedes was reportedly working on enhancing the auditory experience to match the car’s sporty character.
Transmission Choices: Manual and Automatic
For the 1999 model year, Mercedes-Benz made a manual transmission standard equipment in the SLK-Class, acknowledging the desires of driving enthusiasts who preferred a more engaging and traditional driving experience. While an automatic transmission remained available as an option (at a $900 premium and adding 61 pounds of weight), the inclusion of a standard manual transmission broadened the SLK-Class’s appeal to a wider range of buyers. Mercedes-Benz anticipated that the automatic transmission would still account for the majority of sales in North America, but the availability of a manual option demonstrated a commitment to catering to the purist roadster driver.
Sport Package: AMG-Inspired Enhancements
The 1999 SLK-Class offered an optional Sport Package, certified by AMG, to inject a more aggressive and muscular aesthetic into the roadster’s appearance. This package included aerodynamic enhancements to the lower body, giving the car a more planted and assertive stance. Larger 17-inch wheels and tires (225/45ZR-17 front and 245/40ZR-17 rear) not only enhanced the visual appeal but also contributed to improved handling and grip. The Sport Package also replaced the “Kompressor” badge on the side with a “Sport” badge, relocating the “Kompressor” designation to the decklid. These AMG-inspired upgrades allowed the SLK-Class to project a more confident and sporty image, enabling it to stand out amongst competitors known for their aggressive styling.
Safety Innovation: Setting New Roadster Standards
Traditionally, roadsters were not particularly known for their safety features. However, Mercedes-Benz broke this mold with the SLK-Class, equipping it with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies typically found in their more expensive models. Standard safety features included dual airbags and side-impact airbags. Antilock brakes (ABS) and automatic slip control were also standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. Recognizing the increased risk of rollover accidents in roadsters, the SLK-Class incorporated a reinforced A-pillar and integrated roll bars behind the seats for enhanced occupant protection. Furthermore, the SLK-Class featured the innovative BabySmart system, allowing the use of a Mercedes-Benz BabySmart car seat that would automatically disable the passenger airbag when in use. This pioneering feature allowed parents to safely share the open-air driving experience with young children, a unique safety consideration in the roadster segment.
Options and Value
Mercedes-Benz advertised “only four factory options” for the 1999 SLK-Class, including heated seats, metallic paint, a cell phone/CD changer, and the AMG appearance/17-inch wheels Sport Package. However, the availability of the automatic transmission as an option suggests a slightly different interpretation of “factory options.” Regardless, the SLK-Class offered a range of customization possibilities to suit individual preferences.
In conclusion, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class represented a significant step forward in the roadster category. It successfully blended sporty driving dynamics with luxurious features, innovative safety technology, and the unique appeal of a retractable hardtop. By offering a compelling package that catered to both driving enthusiasts and those seeking a stylish and safe open-top experience, the 1999 SLK-Class solidified its place as a benchmark roadster and contributed to Mercedes-Benz’s successful effort to attract a younger generation of buyers.
