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Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG review


           The SLK 55 AMG is now even more dynamic: a new front apron and dark-tinted headlamps give this unique eight-cylinder roadster an even more athletic look even at a standstill. The handling dynamics of the SLK 55 AMG have also been sharpened. For the first time the car features the new direct steering with variable servo assistance, which makes the 360 bhp two seater even more agile and responsive. The SLK 55 AMG is also the only car in its class to feature a V8 engine, while the improved AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC transmission now offers even faster gearchanges.


          Underneath the hood, the updated “sports” engine is discerned by the red stripes on the engine cover. The 3.5-liter displacement is unchanged; in fact, it’s almost the same engine as before. The power increase comes from an increased compression ratio of 11.7:1 (up from 10.7:1) and a 7200-rpm redline, an improvement of 1000 revs. The compression ratio is achieved simply with newly designed pistons, but the extra revs required even more changes.

         There's one big thing I don't like about the SLK55 AMG, and that's the price. The SLK55 AMG starts at over $66k with destination and gas guzzler tax. Options on my tester included navigation (which should be standard on a car this expensive), AIRSCARF (which blows warm air on your neck), and a fancier climate control system. Bottom line: $72,145. Someone get me a chair! For that kind of money, you could buy three Mazda Miatas. You could also get a BMW M3 retractable-hardtop convertible, which comes with 4 years of free maintenance and a higher fun factor. Me, I'd probably go for a soft-top BMW 135i convertible. It's not as fast or as small, but it's still plenty thrilling to drive, and even with all the options it's over $12,000 cheaper than a stripped down SLK55.


Specifications
           * Type of engine: 5,4 L V8
           * Fuel type: Gas
           * Power horse: 355 hp @ 5750 rpm
           * Price: 69,049 €


1 comment:

  1. Nice closeup shots on the car. Thinking about getting a hybrid car someday myself

    ReplyDelete