I'm a little bit torn on the SLKs, and particularly these R170 versions. GZiven the remarkable success of the Mazda Miata, it's not surprising that a lot of other makers would jump in to the roadster segment - Porsche gave us the Boxster, BMW the ZR, Audi the TT - but Mercedes-Benz seemed the least able to really create something lightweight and fun, given the somewhat stodgy nature of the company when this car was designed and built. SLK essentially stands for "sport light compact," though the second part is debatable. At 3000 lbs., this car was the heaviest in its class despite having the shortest wheelbase and dimensions - not untypical for a Mercedes product.
Anyway, why I'm torn is this - the SLK purports to be a sporty, lightweight roadster - Mercedes even drilled the brake pedal for lightness - yet it has power windows, power seats, a folding hard top, all kinds of heavy and unnecessary trim, and seems more like the marriage of a Miata and an Eldorado produced an offspring. To really call this sporty and lightweight, one has to take it in the context of the rest of the Mercedes-Benz lineup. By that standard, it's a waif.
Some things aren't arguable - this car handles well, has plenty of pep, lots of luxury equipment, excellent build quality, and is very fun to drive. Given the target market, that's more than enough to be satisfying.
This car is available at www.AENaples.com, or call Marty at (239) 298-8000.
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