The Mercedes-Benz SLK, a renowned 2-door, 2-passenger roadster, continued its legacy of performance and luxury with the 2016 model year. Built on a robust steel unibody chassis, the 2016 SLK offered a range of models, each catering to different performance appetites. This article delves into the technical specifications of the Mercedes-Benz 2016 SLK, providing a detailed overview for automotive enthusiasts and potential owners. We will explore the key features and differences between the SLK300, SLK350, and the high-performance AMG SLK55 variants.
2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK Model Variants: Engine and Performance Breakdown
The 2016 SLK lineup presented three distinct models, primarily differentiated by their engine configurations, each delivering a unique driving experience.
SLK300: Efficient Power and Agility
The Mercedes-Benz 2016 SLK300 is powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine crafted with an aluminum block and alloy cylinder head. This turbocharged, direct-injection engine delivers 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 278 lb-ft of torque between 1,200 and 4,000 rpm. While bore and stroke figures are to be confirmed (TBA), the engine boasts a 9.8:1 compression ratio. This powertrain enables the SLK300 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 5.8 seconds, reaching a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph. Fuel efficiency is a notable aspect, with city, highway, and combined fuel economy figures of 25 mpg, 32 mpg, and 28 mpg respectively. The engine is paired with a 9G-TRONIC transmission.
SLK350: Enhanced Performance with a V6 Engine
Stepping up in performance, the Mercedes-Benz 2016 SLK350 features a 3.5-liter V6 engine, also constructed with an aluminum block and alloy cylinder head. This direct-injection engine produces 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 278 lb-ft of torque, available between 3,500 and 5,250 rpm. The engine’s bore measures 3.66 inches and stroke is 3.38 inches, with a higher compression ratio of 12.0:1 compared to the SLK300. The SLK350 achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.4 seconds and maintains the same electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Fuel economy is rated at 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The transmission in the SLK350 is the 7G-TRONIC PLUS.
AMG SLK55: Unleashed Power and AMG Engineering
For those seeking ultimate performance, the Mercedes-AMG SLK55 represents the pinnacle of the 2016 SLK range. It houses a formidable 5.5-liter AMG V8 engine, again featuring an aluminum block and alloy cylinder head. This direct-injection powerhouse generates 415 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and a substantial 398 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The AMG V8 has a bore of 3.86 inches and a stroke of 3.56 inches, with a 12.6:1 compression ratio. The AMG SLK55 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Its top speed is also limited to 155 mph, but with the optional AMG Development Package, this limit is raised to 174 mph. Fuel economy is understandably lower due to the larger engine, rated at 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. The transmission is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS.
Transmission, Chassis, and Dimensions of the 2016 SLK Models
All Mercedes-Benz 2016 SLK models share fundamental chassis and dimensional characteristics. They are built on a steel unibody chassis ensuring rigidity and safety. The wheelbase across all models is 95.7 inches. The length of the SLK300 and SLK350 is 162.8 inches, while the AMG SLK55 is slightly longer at 163.2 inches. The width, including mirrors, is consistent at 79.0 inches, and the height is 51.2 inches for all variants. Track width varies slightly between the standard models and the AMG version. The front track width is 61.4 inches for SLK300 and SLK350, and 61.0 inches for the AMG SLK55. The rear track width is 61.6 inches for the SLK300 and SLK350, and 61.7 inches for the AMG SLK55.
Interior dimensions provide comfortable space for occupants. Headroom measures 38.0 inches, increasing to 39.1 inches with the panoramic roof or MAGIC SKY CONTROL feature. Legroom is a generous 42.5 inches, and shoulder room is 52.2 inches across all models.
Capacities, Suspension, Tires, and Brakes
The trunk capacity for the Mercedes-Benz 2016 SLK is 10.1 cu.ft. with the roof up and 6.4 cu.ft. with the roof down. Curb weight varies, with the SLK300 and SLK350 weighing 3,417 lbs and the AMG SLK55 slightly heavier at 3,583 lbs. Fuel tank capacity is 15.9 gallons for the SLK300 and SLK350, and larger at 18.5 gallons for the AMG SLK55.
Regarding suspension, tires, and brakes, the standard tire is high-performance across all models. The SLK300 features 225/45 R17 front tires and 245/40 R17 rear tires, while both the SLK350 and AMG SLK55 are equipped with 225/40 R18 front and 245/35 R18 rear tires. Standard front wheel sizes are 7.5J X 17 for SLK300 and SLK350, and 7.5J X 18 for AMG SLK55. Rear wheel sizes are 8.5J X 17 for SLK300 and SLK350, and 9J X 18 for AMG SLK55. Specific details on suspension type, steering, steering ratio, turning circle, and brake design and dimensions are to be further specified (TBA).
Conclusion: The Versatile 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster
The Mercedes-Benz 2016 SLK offered a compelling range of roadsters, from the efficient and agile SLK300 to the potent and exhilarating AMG SLK55. Each model provided a distinct blend of performance and luxury, underpinned by Mercedes-Benz engineering and design. Whether prioritizing fuel economy or seeking high-octane thrills, the 2016 SLK lineup had a variant to meet diverse driver preferences, all while maintaining the iconic roadster spirit.
Source: Data derived from www.media.mbusa.com
