2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Roadster

For those who can’t quite stretch the budget for the new SL-Class, the next-generation Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster offers a more conventional balance of price, performance and luxury. Following an extensive facelift incorporating around 650 newly developed components, the updated SLK three-model range begins at a far more obtainable $86,780.

The range begins with the SLK 200 KOMPRESSOR, which boasts a four-cylinder supercharged engine producing 135kW and peak torque of 250Nm.

Engine refinements see fuel consumption drop by a substantial 1.2-litres to just 8.0L/100km, which in turn reduces CO2 emissions by 30 g /km to 190 g/km. The mid-range SLK 350 is powered by a high-revving 3.5-litre V6 engine developing 224kW and 360Nm, hitting red line at 7200rpm.

When coupled with the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the SLK 350 consumes just 9.2-litres per 100km - 1.9-litres less than the previous model.The pinnacle of the range is the SLK 55 AMG which features a familiar 5.5-litre V8 power plant delivering 265 kW of power and 510Nm.

The two new models in the SLK range all come with a precision six-speed manual gearshift while the SLK 55 AMG retains the 7G-TRONIC Sport seven-speed automatic transmission.

A newly developed direct-steer system with variable power assistance also makes its debut as standard on the SLK range.

The direct-steer system is derived from the previous speed-sensitive power steering and operates purely mechanically, adjusting the steering gear ratio in tune with the steering angle.

© Source: caradvice
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2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Review

Mercedes-Benz's three-pointed star has long been synonymous with style and prestige, but it has historically taken a backseat to BMW's blue and white propeller as a symbol of driving excitement. This was certainly true of the first-generation SLK roadster, which offered decent straight-line speed and a then-novel folding hardtop but lost points due to its archaic recirculating-ball steering design and generally less-than-sporting demeanor. But when the folks at Mercedes set about redesigning the SLK a few years ago, they had evidently grown tired of playing second fiddle to their Bavarian rival in the minds of discerning drivers. That's the only way to explain the downright frisky performance of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class roadster.

Now in its fourth year of production, the current-generation SLK continues to offer sports-carlike handling, broad-shouldered power and the all-weather convenience of a retractable hardtop. Blessed with numerous updates for 2009, this aging model remains one of the most capable and desirable cars in its class. While purists may be tempted by the standard manual transmission on base SLK300 models, speed lovers of all stripes will be intrigued by the midlevel SLK350's newly pumped-up engine. Boasting 300 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque -- increases of 32 hp and 7 lb-ft over last year -- the already quick SLK350 should be noticeably quicker. Also of note, all 2009 SLKs are endowed with what Mercedes calls a "Direct Steer System," which includes a 25 percent quicker steering ratio and a progressive-effort build-up based on steering angle. Other enhancements include a new 5-inch LCD screen, an in-dash six-CD changer, freshened exterior styling and optional iPod/MP3 connectivity.

None of this comes cheap, naturally, and the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is one of the most expensive choices for a luxury convertible or roadster. As such, one could also consider the sublime Porsche Boxster as well as less desirable (but less expensive) models like the Audi TT, BMW Z4, Honda S2000 and Nissan 350Z. However, these ragtop models lack the Benz's retractable hardtop, and they would be hard-pressed to match the SLK's classy interior appointments. What really sets the SLK apart, though, is its complete package. In the premium roadster segment, at least, the three-pointed star is now synonymous with performance as well as other, more traditional Mercedes traits.

© Source: edmunds
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Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Commercial featuring Ziyi Zhang

If the name Zhang Ziyi is unfamiliar to you, it shouldn't be. She's one of world's best-known Chinese film actresses, with Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Rush Hour 2; House of Flying Daggers; Hero; and Memoirs of a Geisha just some of the movies that make up her exemplary résumé.



© Source: emercedesbenz
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2008 Brabus Mercedes-Benz SLK

(from Brabus Press Release) The Very Latest from BRABUS for the New SLK Models
Engine Tuning With up to 445 hp (438 hp SAE net) / 327 kW and Exclusive Accessories

Concurrent with the market launch of the updated Mercedes SLK-Class, BRABUS (www.brabus.com) presents an exclusive customization program. The palette of products ranges from engine tuning with up to 445 hp (438 hp SAE net) / 327 kW of power to a sportyyet elegant aerodynamic-enhancement program, and includes custom-tailored light-alloy wheels and suspensions as well as individual interior options.

For the top-of-the-line SLK55 AMG model, BRABUS offers its 6.1 S displacement engine. It has a rated power output of 445 hp (438 hp SAE net) / 327 kW and produces a peak torque of 635 Nm (468 lb-ft). Power is transferred to the road via a modified seven-speed automatic gearbox and a custom-developed BRABUS limited-slip differential. With a sprint time from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 305 km/h (191 mph) the BRABUS tuned roadster sets new standards in its class.

All BRABUS engines are lubricated with ARAL high-performance motor oil and all are backed by the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years or 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions as of November 2006).

The installation of the BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust system is beneficial not only for tuned engines. Its four chrome-plated tailpipes give the SLK a more exclusive appearance and produce an even more sonorous exhaust note on all SLK engines.

For the updated SLK the BRABUS designers have once again made use of the wind tunnel to develop an aerodynamic-enhancement package in OEM quality that in combination with the chrome-plated BRABUS roadster roll bars lends the two-seater a sporty yet elegant appearance.

The striking BRABUS front spoiler reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds. BRABUS headlamp inserts with daytime running lights further improve driving safety.

© Source: seriouswheels
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