The Mercedes-Benz Slk class, a renowned line of roadsters, embodies performance and luxury in a compact package. For those seeking detailed information, understanding the technical specifications across different SLK models is crucial. This article delves into the technical data of three prominent models: the SLK300, SLK350, and the high-performance AMG SLK55, providing a comprehensive comparison for automotive enthusiasts and potential owners.
Engine Specifications: Powering the Benz SLK Roadster
The heart of any vehicle lies in its engine, and the benz slk models offer a range of powertrains to suit various driving preferences.
SLK300 Engine: The SLK300 is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine. This aluminum block and alloy cylinder head engine features a 4-valve arrangement, delivering a balance of efficiency and performance. It utilizes a turbocharged, direct-injection intake system to produce 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a robust 278 lb-ft of torque, available from 1,200 to 4,000 rpm.
SLK350 Engine: Stepping up in displacement, the SLK350 boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine. Like the SLK300, it features an aluminum engine block and alloy cylinder heads with a 4-valve arrangement. This direct-injection engine generates a higher output of 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and maintains 278 lb-ft of torque, accessible between 3,500 and 5,250 rpm. The SLK350 aims for a more powerful and naturally aspirated driving experience.
AMG SLK55 Engine: For ultimate performance in the benz slk lineup, the AMG SLK55 features a handcrafted 5.5-liter AMG V8 engine. Constructed with an aluminum block and alloy cylinder heads, and incorporating a 4-valve arrangement and direct-injection, this powerhouse delivers significantly more power. It churns out an impressive 415 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and a substantial 398 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The AMG SLK55 engine is designed for exhilarating acceleration and a true sports car feel.
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0-liter Inline 4-Cylinder | 3.5-liter V6 | 5.5-liter AMG V8 |
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | 3,498 cc | 5,461 cc |
| Horsepower | 241 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 302 hp @ 6,500 rpm | 415 hp @ 6,800 rpm |
| Torque | 278 lb-ft @ 1,200-4,000 rpm | 278 lb-ft @ 3,500-5,250 rpm | 398 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm |
| Intake System | Turbocharged, Direct Injection | Direct Injection | Direct Injection |
Performance Metrics: Acceleration, Top Speed, and Fuel Economy of Benz SLK
Performance figures are key indicators of a sports car’s capabilities. The benz slk models demonstrate varying levels of performance suited to their respective engines.
Acceleration and Top Speed: The SLK300 achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.8 seconds, offering brisk performance for everyday driving and spirited runs. The SLK350 improves upon this, reaching 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, providing a noticeable step up in acceleration. The AMG SLK55, with its V8 engine, delivers breathtaking acceleration, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. All three models have a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph, although the AMG SLK55 could reach 174 mph with the optional AMG Development Package.
Fuel Economy: Fuel efficiency varies across the models, reflecting their engine sizes and performance levels. The SLK300, with its smaller turbocharged engine, offers the best fuel economy, achieving an estimated 25 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. The SLK350 provides a balance of power and economy, with fuel consumption rated at 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The AMG SLK55, as expected with its high-performance V8, has a lower fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined.
| Metric | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-60 mph | 5.8 seconds | 5.4 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Top Speed (Limited) | 155 mph | 155 mph | 155 mph (174 mph*) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Comb.) | 25/32/28 mpg | 21/29/24 mpg | 19/28/22 mpg |
*With AMG Development Package
Transmission and Drivetrain: Power Delivery in Benz SLK
The transmission system plays a vital role in translating engine power into vehicle motion. The benz slk models utilize advanced Mercedes-Benz transmissions.
Transmission Types: The SLK300 is equipped with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear changes and optimized fuel efficiency. The SLK350 features a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission, known for its responsiveness and refined operation. The AMG SLK55 utilizes the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission, specifically tuned for high-performance applications, providing faster shift times and enhanced driver engagement. All models are rear-wheel drive, maintaining the classic roadster driving dynamics.
| Feature | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 9G-TRONIC | 7G-TRONIC PLUS | AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Drive Configuration | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Dimensions and Capacities: Size and Practicality of the Benz SLK
While being a sporty roadster, the benz slk also offers practical dimensions and capacities.
Exterior and Interior Dimensions: All three SLK models share a wheelbase of 95.7 inches and a height of 51.2 inches. The SLK300 and SLK350 have a length of 162.8 inches, while the AMG SLK55 is slightly longer at 163.2 inches. The width including mirrors is consistent across all models at 79.0 inches. Interior dimensions provide comfortable space for two occupants, with a legroom of 42.5 inches and a shoulder room of 52.2 inches. Headroom varies slightly depending on the roof option, offering 38.0 inches with the standard top and up to 39.1 inches with the panoramic or MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof.
Capacities: The trunk capacity of the benz slk is 10.1 cubic feet with the roof up and 6.4 cubic feet with the roof down, providing reasonable storage for a roadster. The curb weight ranges from 3,417 lbs for the SLK300 and SLK350 to 3,583 lbs for the AMG SLK55, reflecting the larger engine and AMG enhancements. The fuel tank capacity is 15.9 gallons for the SLK300 and SLK350, and slightly larger at 18.5 gallons for the AMG SLK55, accommodating its higher fuel consumption.
| Dimension/Capacity | SLK300 | SLK350 | AMG SLK55 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase (in.) | 95.7 | 95.7 | 95.7 |
| Length (in.) | 162.8 | 162.8 | 163.2 |
| Width including mirrors (in.) | 79.0 | 79.0 | 79.0 |
| Height (in.) | 51.2 | 51.2 | 51.2 |
| 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 Capacity (gallons) | 15.9 | 15.9 | 18.5 |
Image alt text: Side profile of a silver Benz SLK roadster showcasing its sleek design and convertible top, highlighting the sporty aesthetics of the Mercedes SLK.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Benz SLK Model
The Mercedes-Benz SLK range offers a compelling choice of roadsters, each with its unique strengths. The SLK300 provides an efficient and enjoyable entry point, the SLK350 delivers a more potent naturally aspirated V6 experience, and the AMG SLK55 stands as the ultimate performance variant with its powerful V8 engine. Understanding these technical specifications allows buyers and enthusiasts to appreciate the engineering and performance nuances within the benz slk family and select the model that best fits their needs and desires.
For more detailed information on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, you can visit www.media.mbusa.com.
