The Mercedes-Benz SLK, a beloved roadster, has consistently delivered a blend of luxury and performance in a compact package. For enthusiasts and potential owners alike, understanding the technical nuances between different SLK models is crucial. This article provides an in-depth look at the technical specifications of several key SLK variants, focusing on what makes each model unique within the Slk Benz lineup.
Chassis and Vehicle Type of the SLK Benz
All models within the discussed SLK Benz range – the SLK300, SLK350, and AMG SLK55 – share the fundamental characteristics of a 2-door, 2-passenger roadster. This body style emphasizes open-top driving pleasure and sporty handling. Underneath the sleek exterior, each SLK Benz model is built upon a robust steel unibody chassis. This construction method provides a strong and rigid foundation, contributing to both safety and agile driving dynamics that are synonymous with the SLK Benz name.
Engine Specifications: A Core Differentiator in the SLK Benz Range
The engines are where the most significant differences lie between the SLK Benz models, each offering a distinct performance profile.
SLK300 Engine Details
The SLK Benz SLK300 is powered by a modern 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine. Constructed with an aluminum engine block and alloy cylinder head, this engine prioritizes lightweight design and efficient performance. Featuring a 4-valve-per-cylinder arrangement, it benefits from advanced engineering to maximize power and responsiveness. The engine displacement is 1,991cc, and while bore and stroke figures are to be confirmed (TBA), the compression ratio is set at 9.8 : 1. Turbocharged and equipped with direct injection, the SLK300 engine produces a healthy 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a substantial 278 lb-ft of torque available across a broad rev range from 1,200 to 4,000 rpm. Maximum engine speed for the SLK300 is still to be announced (TBA).
SLK350 Engine Highlights
Stepping up to the SLK Benz SLK350 brings a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine into play. Like the SLK300, it utilizes an aluminum engine block and alloy cylinder heads, maintaining a focus on weight efficiency. With a 4-valve-per-cylinder configuration and direct-injection fuel system, this engine is engineered for smooth and potent power delivery. Displacement is significantly larger at 3,498cc, with a bore of 3.66 inches and a stroke of 3.38 inches. The higher compression ratio of 12.0 : 1 reflects its performance-oriented design. The SLK350 generates 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, and 278 lb-ft of torque, available from 3,500 to 5,250 rpm. The redline for the SLK350 engine is at 7,000 rpm.
AMG SLK55 Engine Powerhouse
At the pinnacle of the range, the SLK Benz AMG SLK55 boasts a hand-built 5.5-liter AMG V8 engine. This engine shares the aluminum block and alloy head construction of its siblings but elevates performance to a new level. Featuring the same 4-valve-per-cylinder design and direct-injection system, this engine is a testament to AMG’s performance engineering. Displacement is a massive 5,461cc, with a bore of 3.86 inches and a stroke of 3.56 inches. The compression ratio is the highest of the three at 12.6 : 1, optimized for high-output performance. The AMG SLK55 engine delivers a commanding 415 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and a massive 398 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The maximum engine speed is 7,200 rpm, allowing for exhilarating performance throughout the rev range.
Performance Metrics of the SLK Benz Models
The performance figures clearly reflect the engine differences within the SLK Benz lineup.
Acceleration and Top Speed
The SLK Benz SLK300 achieves a 0-60 mph sprint in a brisk 5.8 seconds. Both the SLK350 and AMG SLK55 are quicker, with the SLK350 reaching 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The AMG SLK55, with its V8 power, is the fastest, completing the 0-60 mph dash in just 4.5 seconds. All three models have an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, although the AMG SLK55 can reach 174 mph with the optional AMG Development Package, showcasing its true potential as an SLK Benz high-performance variant.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency varies across the range. The SLK Benz SLK300, with its smaller turbocharged engine, is the most economical, achieving 25 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. The SLK350 offers 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. As expected, the high-performance AMG SLK55 is the least fuel-efficient, with 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. These figures are important considerations for SLK Benz owners, balancing performance with running costs.
Transmission and Drive Configuration across the SLK Benz Range
The transmission systems further differentiate the driving experience of each SLK Benz model.
Transmission Types
The SLK Benz SLK300 is equipped with the advanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. The SLK350 uses the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. The AMG SLK55, befitting its performance focus, features the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS, which is a performance-tuned version of the 7-speed automatic, offering quicker shift times and enhanced responsiveness. All models are rear-wheel drive, a classic configuration for sports roadsters like the SLK Benz. Detailed gear ratios and final drive information are not specified in the provided data.
Suspension, Tires, and Brakes for Each SLK Benz Model
The chassis components are crucial for handling and safety, and the SLK Benz models are equipped with appropriate systems for their performance levels.
Suspension and Steering
Specific details on suspension types, steering systems, steering ratios, and turning circles are not provided in the original data. However, it is noted that all models utilize high-performance tires, suggesting a focus on dynamic handling and grip that is expected of an SLK Benz.
Wheels and Tires
The SLK Benz SLK300 comes with standard front tire size 225/45 R17 and rear tire size 245/40 R17, mounted on 7.5J X 17 front wheels and 8.5J X 17 rear wheels. The SLK350 and AMG SLK55 both upgrade to 225/40 R18 front and 245/35 R18 rear tires. Wheel sizes for the SLK350 are 7.5J X 17 front and 8.5J X 17 rear, while the AMG SLK55 uses wider 7.5J X 18 front and 9J X 18 rear wheels, accommodating its higher performance and braking demands as a top-tier SLK Benz model.
Brakes
Detailed specifications on front and rear brake designs, disc diameters, and thicknesses are not available in the provided technical data. However, given the performance differences, particularly with the AMG SLK55, it’s expected that brake systems are appropriately sized and engineered for each SLK Benz model’s capabilities.
Exterior and Interior Dimensions of the SLK Benz
The exterior and interior dimensions are largely consistent across the SLK Benz SLK300, SLK350, and AMG SLK55, reflecting their shared platform and body style.
Exterior Measurements
All three SLK Benz models share a 95.7-inch wheelbase. The SLK300 and SLK350 are identical in length at 162.8 inches, while the AMG SLK55 is slightly longer at 163.2 inches. Width including mirrors is consistent at 79.0 inches, and height is also the same at 51.2 inches. Track width varies slightly, with the SLK300 and SLK350 having a front track width of 61.4 inches and a rear track width of 61.6 inches. The AMG SLK55 has slightly narrower front track width at 61.0 inches and a wider rear track width at 61.7 inches, possibly tuned for enhanced handling characteristics of this SLK Benz performance model.
Interior Space
Interior dimensions are uniform across the range. Headroom is 38.0 inches with the standard roof, and increases to 39.1 inches with the panoramic roof or MAGIC SKY CONTROL. Legroom is generous at 42.5 inches, and shoulder room is 52.2 inches in all SLK Benz variants, ensuring a comfortable cabin for a roadster.
Capacities: Trunk Space, Weight, and Fuel Tank
The capacities provide practical insights into the usability of each SLK Benz model.
Trunk and Storage
Trunk capacity is consistent across all models at 10.1 cubic feet with the roof up and 6.4 cubic feet with the roof down. This provides reasonable luggage space for a roadster in the SLK Benz family.
Weight and Fuel Tank
Curb weight is 3,417 lbs for both the SLK300 and SLK350, while the AMG SLK55 is heavier at 3,583 lbs, reflecting its larger engine and performance-oriented components. Fuel tank capacity is 15.9 gallons for the SLK300 and SLK350, and slightly larger at 18.5 gallons for the AMG SLK55, likely to accommodate the higher fuel consumption during performance driving in this SLK Benz flagship model.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal SLK Benz
This technical deep dive highlights the distinctions within the SLK Benz range. The SLK300 offers an efficient yet spirited entry point. The SLK350 provides a step up in power and refinement with its V6 engine. For those seeking ultimate performance, the AMG SLK55 delivers exhilarating V8 power and AMG-tuned dynamics. Understanding these technical specifications is key to selecting the SLK Benz model that best fits individual driving preferences and performance expectations. For further information on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, you can visit www.media.mbusa.com.
