SLK 350 Manual or Auto?

[dasherdiablo1]

On my shortlist of used cars I have a Boxster, Z4 Coupe and SLK350. At the moment the SLK is top of my list. However I would appreciate some input on whether to go for a Manual or the Paddled 7G 'box. In all honesty I prefer the involvement of a manual.

However, I'm currently finding that the manual cars are very poorly specced, the majority of which do not even have heated seats!!!!

Also, what do people feel are the must haves in these cars...I'm not interested in Sat Nav because I have a Syrius.

Thanks in advance,

David

[Burba]

dasherdiablo1 said:

... because I have a Syrius....

David

is it contagious?

[tricky 100]

Auto , because when you go to sell it most Bank managers/solicitors wifes wont want to buy a manual .

[Chauch]

Manual with Direct steering would get my vote every time - fantastic to drive.

[eldar]

dasherdiablo1 said:

On my shortlist of used cars I have a Boxster, Z4 Coupe and SLK350. At the moment the SLK is top of my list. However I would appreciate some input on whether to go for a Manual or the Paddled 7G 'box. In all honesty I prefer the involvement of a manual.

However, I'm currently finding that the manual cars are very poorly specced, the majority of which do not even have heated seats!!!!

Also, what do people feel are the must haves in these cars...I'm not interested in Sat Nav because I have a Syrius.

Thanks in advance,

David

Went down the same route, just about. SLK 350, auto box. Auto is far better than manual in every respect I think.

Make sure it has the paddle option on the steering wheel - it is more than just paddles, it is more agressive software so S mode is rather better

Drive both manual and auto... and yes, you need heated seats and airscarf is a must if you are going to have the roof down in the cold

[Olf]

I had the manual. Great gearbox. Drove the auto. Found the paddles crappy, unresponsive and confusing. 7 spd box always seemed to be in the wrong gear as well.

Go for the manual.

[anonymous-user]

Manual every time. Mated to the 350 engine - just lovely.

[kith]

Another vote for manual here, its so much more involving and the clutch is smooth and progressive, a pleasure to use.

In terms of must-have options, I would say:

Heated leather electric memory seats
Telephone pre-wiring
SatNav
iPod integration
Xenons
AMG body kit and sports suspension (firm ride but very responsive)