Mercedes SLK 350 - What's it like?

[PompeyPaul]

Just after a bit more information on the Merc 350 SLK.

Having a retractable hard top, so I assume there are no problems at all with inside cabin misting like some soft tops?

Also is air scarf a must? It sounds like a good gadget - does it work well and how long does it take to push out warm air on those cold mornings?

Also is the engine powerful enough to make it feel quick and give decent mid range power and back road fun? At around £18,000, is the SLK55 AMG is worth double the money of this?

Any thoughts gratefully received.

[PompeyPaul]

Thanks for the responses so far guys. Seems the decision between the two is not as easy as first thought.

For those with experience of either/both, what are real life rough MPG with some spirited driving included?

[PompeyPaul]

rgv250ads said:

PompeyPaul said:

For those with experience of either/both, what are real life rough MPG with some spirited driving included?

Hi Paul, i've got a 2005 SLK55.
If i tickle the throttle and i mean REALYL tickle it on a motorway run I can get 33MPG. this is however hidiously boring and crazy (almost stressful!) way of driving. Only did it once on a long run to see what it'd do. Reality is i am getting 24MPG. I dont blast everywhere but also dont drive with MPG in mind. A Mixture.

My car is purely a toy and not used for commuting. If you can justify (man maths!) the extra for the 55 then you wont regret it. Also the M113 V8 is generally regarded as a more robust unit over the V6. I dont think you will get double (or even anywhere near) the fuel economy out of the V6 over the V8 so it comes down to purchase of vehicle costs. Plus of course what do you Really want. have you got a V8 itch to scratch or not bothered?

Insurance on my SLK55 is really cheap i think. Got a limited mileage policy (5k per annum) i'm 36 and it's £220 a year.

Good luck in your search. Have you driven both yet or are you just info gathering? If you were nearby i'd be happy to show you an R171 SLK and explain what to look for.

Edited by rgv250ads on Friday 27th March 14:19

Hi. Thanks for taking the time to write such a detailed response. I am info gathering with a view to test drives and then purchase in around a month as soon as we move house. I am Hampshire (Portsmouth) area.

[PompeyPaul]

RobM77 said:

OP: Have you driven a 55? You may just hear the sound it makes and instantly fall for it an decide you simply have to have one! It certainly had that effect on me and I also love the response of the V8 and the way it suits the car.

Not driven one yet, but that's exactly what I'm expecting to happen when j test one!

[PompeyPaul]

Is the R171 SLK55 AMG going to still suffer significant depreciation do people think, with the AMG obviously still being produced in R172 form, or will the pre facelift hold its value?

I know the 350 will depreciate at a steady rate, but still considering as half the price. Need to find a good example of each to test.

[PompeyPaul]

Thanks for the response. Sound advice. I think I need to ensure I can try both back to back. I could imagine regretting not getting a 55AMG if I got a 350, but probably not vice versa. Time will tell.