Mercedes-Benz SLK - a double roadster-coupe with a folding roof. The first SLK model (platform type R170) was shown in April 1996 in Turin. She received wide acclaim due to not only the elegant appearance, but also the installation of a unique roof folding mechanism on it. Unlike many competitors, this machine is completely metal and can be raised or lowered electrically in just 25 seconds. The only disadvantage of this design - a small amount of luggage in the open version.
This car has received more than 35 international prizes and awards, including: “Golden Steering Wheel” (Germany, 1996), “The Most Beautiful Car of the World” (Italy, 1996), “Car of the Year” (USA, 1997), “Best Convertible of the World "(Germany, 1998)," The Most Popular Convertible "(Italy, 1999). The 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK family included two models, the SLK200 and SLK230 Kompressor. The base model with a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 136 hp, and the SLK230 Kompressor is a 4-cylinder 2.3 engine that develops 193 hp. Moreover, good speed qualities in a relatively light SLK, even with a conventional 2-liter engine.
High smoothness of the car, a high level of passive safety, as well as rich serial equipment and reasonable price made the car very popular. In 1999, the company took note of the wishes of customers who would like to see a more powerful 6-cylinder engine under the hood and Mercedes-Benz presented a sample SLK with a 3.2 liter V6 engine with a displacement of 3.2 liters. In the spring of 2000, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-class was upgraded. Expanded range.
SLK has become more elegant and respectable: the shape of the grille has changed, new xenon headlamps under transparent glass and rear lighting have appeared, by changing the shape of bumpers and side spoilers, the model has become more dynamic, all body parts and door handles are painted in one color, repeaters turns placed in the exterior mirror housings, new standard 16-inch alloy wheels. Structural changes, except for new power units, include a fuel tank of increased volume.
The interior has also been changed: the new dashboard is equipped with an ASSYST (Aktives Service-System) display, an updated steering wheel, and improved sports seats with improved lateral support are automatically adjusted. The center console and niche door handles are lined with decorative aluminum panels. Depending on the finishing material (fabric or leather), there are five colors to choose from: anthracite, blue merlin, beige siam, red magnesium and yellow lotus. In the basic package top model SLK 320 with a V6 engine air conditioning is included. There are options for interior decoration with valuable wood species - brown eucalyptus (Calyptus Linea) or black maple (Vogelaugenahor).
The roadster is equipped with an aluminum top folding in the trunk, the volume of which is reduced from 230 to 150 liters. In the basic package top model SLK 320 with a V6 engine air conditioning is included. There are options for interior decoration with valuable wood species - brown eucalyptus (Calyptus Linea) or black maple (Vogelaugenahor). The roadster is equipped with an aluminum top folding in the trunk, the volume of which is reduced from 230 to 150 liters. In the basic package top model SLK 320 with a V6 engine air conditioning is included. There are options for interior decoration with valuable wood species - brown eucalyptus (Calyptus Linea) or black maple (Vogelaugenahor).
The roadster is equipped with an aluminum top folding in the trunk, the volume of which is reduced from 230 to 150 liters. In order to improve the safety of vehicles, the Dynamic Stability Program Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is installed as standard, the front axle stabilizer is enhanced, and the rear axle is equipped with an additional stabilizer. To increase safety in frontal collisions, the spars are reinforced and the thickness of the rigid elliptical front wall of the body is increased; in a side collision - increased body strength, side airbags installed in the doors.
The unique design provides the same rigidity of the body in torsion and bending with the raised and c lowered roof, as a result, the behavior of the SLK in turns is close to ideal. The expanded model range includes the SLK200 Kompressor, SLK230 Kompressor and SLK 320. The 2-liter SLK200 Kompressor is equipped with a mechanically driven compressor, which makes it possible to develop a capacity of 163 hp. Thanks to the boost SLK 200 Kompressor accelerates to 100 km / h in 8.2 seconds, the maximum speed is 223 km / h. SLK230 Kompressor with a 2.3 liter engine - 170 hp Both of these engines were thoroughly upgraded by Mercedes-Benz and aligned with the exhaust gas limits planned in the EU.
The new top model SLK 320 with a V6 engine has a high torque. With the same low level of toxicity of exhaust gases, as in both four-cylinder SLK engines, the modern V6 engine, which Mercedes-Benz installed for the first time on this car, is also working. This engine has long been well established in Mercedes E-cars, M-cars and S-class cars, as well as in CLK models and SL roadster. Equipped with three valves, two spark plugs per cylinder, with low friction losses and made using modern light materials, this six-cylinder engine is one of the most modern engines in its class.
In the SLK 320, its power is 160 kW / 218 hp, and the maximum torque of the engine, reaching 310 Nm from 3000 rpm, is convincing evidence of almost sporty characteristics of the car: the V6 roadster reaches a maximum speed of 245 km / h. Gasoline consumption is only 11.1 liters per 100 km (total consumption NEFZ) and proves the modern design of this six-cylinder engine. The SLK 320 is equipped with not only the usual (for this engine) 5-speed “automatic”, but also a manual 6-speed gearbox. With the latter, a rather light and compact car gained a very good accelerating dynamics (the acceleration time from a standstill to 100 km / h was reduced to 6.9 s).
The engine and exhaust system of all SLK models are continuously monitored by an on-board diagnostic system. The novelty of 2001 was the sports equipment of the SLK32 AMG with a new “compressor” motor with a power of 354 hp. This made it possible to bring the specific power of the machine to about 250 hp / t and significantly increase the dynamic qualities. The new power unit SLK includes a 3.2 liter 18-valve "six" V6 with a volumetric supercharger of the type Lysholm, allowing you to create a boost pressure of up to 1.1 kg / cm3.
Moreover, the "compressor" is connected only with the full pressing of the "gas" pedal, and in normal mode, the engine runs without boost. Hydromechanical adaptive sports 5-speed "automatic" - own production with AMG Speedshift function, allowing "manual" gear shifting. In 2004, the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster (R171) debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, which in fact became a trendsetter in the class of folding hard-top cars. Externally, the roadster echoes the SLR concept car, but is built on the C-Class coupe platform. Compared with its predecessor, "SLK" has become much more.
Spacious double cockpit, larger trunk. The new roof helped to increase the space under the luggage, which became more compact in the folded position and, accordingly, takes up less space in the trunk. To turn the coupe into a roadster or vice versa, electric drives require only 22 seconds. The new Mercedes-Benz SLK has many electronic systems designed to make life easier for the driver and make the ride more comfortable.
These include Active Body Control, Airmatic (adjustable air suspension), Sensotronic (electro-hydraulic brake system) and Distronic (active cruise control). In a completely new salon, where polished metal finish dominates, an option unique to open cars is the Airscarf system. Translated from English - "air scarf". This is really an invisible “scarf” of warm air that will warm the heads and shoulders of the crew when traveling open-top in cold weather. Warm air is supplied through electronically controlled air vents that are implanted in the head restraints. The algorithm of the “Airscarf” depends on the speed of the machine and the ambient temperature.
For the new "SLK" there are three engines. The basic version of the "SLK200 Kompressor" is equipped with a long-known four-cylinder engine (163 hp) with a mechanical supercharger. Manual 6-speed gearbox is listed as standard. For an extra charge, the “SLK200 Kompressor” can be equipped with the good old “automatic machine” with five speeds. The next step is “SLK350”.
Under the hood lies a new V6 with a capacity of 272 hp. As a custom-made equipment for this modification, an ultra-modern 7G Tronic automatic gearbox with seven speeds is offered. Under the hood lies a new V6 with a capacity of 272 hp. As a custom-made equipment for this modification, an ultra-modern 7G Tronic automatic gearbox with seven speeds is offered.
Under the hood lies a new V6 with a capacity of 272 hp. As a custom-made equipment for this modification, an ultra-modern 7G Tronic automatic gearbox with seven speeds is offered. Together with the new generation of SLK Roadster, Mercedes-Benz will show its top version from AMG in Geneva - a car that is entitled to be called a supercar. The SLK55 AMG is the first Mercedes compact roadster equipped with a powerful V8. Having such an engine with a power of 360, the SLK55 AMG accelerates to 100 km / h in just 4.9 s. If you remove the speed limiter, the roadster will be able to dial under 300 km / h.
The advanced transmission “7G Tronic” is included in the standard equipment of the product from AMG. For the stability of the flagship modification meets substantially improved chassis with extended wheel track. Externally, the car stands sport aerodynamic bodywork, giving the design more aggressive. The AMG version, among other things, will receive gearshift paddles in the style of Formula 1 cars. Besides, Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce a diesel version of the roadster, borrowing the power unit from the C30 CDI AMG. Representatives of the company report that there are already 7,000 orders for the AMG roadster.
In 2008, sales of the restyled model began, which the public first saw at an exhibition in Detroit. At the heart of the car is shortened by 285 millimeters platform C-Class W203. After the restyling, more than 650 changes were made to the SLK design. The exterior of the iconic two-seater roadster has undergone a slight change. He began to look even more athletic. The most attention is attracted by the front bumper, which has received a new design, as well as a new division of openings for cooling air intake. The German manufacturer tried to give the front of the car body even more arrow-shaped.
Fog lights got a chrome trim. The designers of the company also worked on the back of the car. Behind the updated SLK probr even more dynamic features. This was facilitated by the use of the diffuser effect in the lower part of the stern of the car. The impression was enhanced with trapezoidal exhaust pipes, as well as taillights, which were darkened in the manner of AMG. Manufacturers have taken care of the exterior mirrors, which were equipped with LED direction indicators. Moreover, they now have an even greater area, thanks to the new arrow-shaped form.
The outdoor antenna has become shorter so that it does not have to be unscrewed during automatic washing. The palette of alloy wheels offered has been almost completely refreshed. which were equipped with LED direction indicators.
Moreover, they now have an even greater area, thanks to the new arrow-shaped form. The outdoor antenna has become shorter so that it does not have to be unscrewed during automatic washing. The palette of alloy wheels offered has been almost completely refreshed. which were equipped with LED direction indicators.
Moreover, they now have an even greater area, thanks to the new arrow-shaped form. The outdoor antenna has become shorter so that it does not have to be unscrewed during automatic washing. The palette of alloy wheels offered has been almost completely refreshed. Changed for the better and the car interior. Many of its details received a new design.
In addition, the interior looks even more luxurious than before, helped by the use of carefully selected materials in its decoration. Designers sought to improve the interior so that it becomes even more comfortable for both the driver and passengers. The main distinctive feature of the updated cabin can be called a new three-spoke steering wheel, which has multifunctional buttons. The dashboard received new volumetric scales, the arrows on which became red, and the edging chrome-plated. Chrome was added to the center console under the "head" of the audio system, as well as on the gear lever and parking brake levers.
The new nappa leather trim has a natural beige color and is wonderfully combined with new decorative elements. The list of options is complemented by the NTG 2.5 multimedia system with Linguatronic voice control functions, which is again an innovation for the SLK. True, it is available only in foreign languages. Bluetooth is now standard equipment, and for an additional fee, there is an iPod connector, as well as a slot for flash-type SD cards. For navigation needs, a 6.5-inch monitor is provided, and four gigabytes of free space is allocated for storing audio files.
Excellent sound quality comes through the 500-watt acoustics of Harman Kardon, which has become 120 watts more powerful than the previous one. Engineers from Stuttgart updated the 3.5-liter V6 engine: they increased the compression ratio in the cylinders from 10.7: 1 to 11.7: 1, installed lighter valves and new pistons. Now this engine develops 305 horsepower, which is 33 horsepower more than its previous version. The maximum number of revolutions increased to 7200 revolutions per minute, and the torque increased by 10 Nm to 360 Nm at 4900 revolutions per minute. The acceleration time of the SLK 350 from zero to 100 kilometers per hour is 5.4 seconds.
The increased engine power did not prevent the reduction of fuel consumption by 0.9 liters to 9.2 liters per 100 kilometers in mixed driving mode. Moreover, with the "mechanics" consumption in the combined cycle of the SLK 350 is more by 0.3 liters. The most popular among buyers around the world has always enjoyed the modification of the SLK 200 Kompressor, it is preferred by more than half of customers. In the restyled version, its power increased by 21 hp. (184 hp), and torque increased from 240 to 250 Nm. As for fuel consumption, it decreased by 1.0 l. and is now 7.7 liters per 100 km of track in the combined cycle.
CO2 emissions have decreased by 27 g / km and are 182 g / km. The second model, the SLK 280, also acquired improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The engine began to consume 0.4 liters less fuel, consuming a total of 9.3 liters (in the case of automatic transmission, the reduction was 0.2 liters to 9.1 liters in total). And emissions were reduced by 11 g / km, stopping at 220 g / km (in the case of automatic transmission, the reduction was 6 g to 216 g / km). The car is equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. Model SLK 200, if desired, can be ordered with a five-speed automatic transmission.
As for the versions of the SLK 280 and SLK 350 Sportmotor, for them the manufacturer offers a seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC or an automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC Sport with shift paddles. The 7G-TRONIC Sport has a shorter gear change time, in addition, it can re-gas while downshifting. At the time when the driver sharply presses the gas, the neutral gear is engaged and then lowered, at this moment the rotational speed of the crankshaft and the transmission is aligned, thereby making the transition to a low level smoother.
A rich standard equipment, which includes head / Thorax side airbags, adaptive front airbags, as well as two-phase restraints for reinforcement of belt tension. In addition to all this, it is possible to order for the car to install a unique air heating system for the head and neck space called AIRSCARF ("Air scarf"). This technology will make it possible even in cool weather to enjoy a ride with the top down, significantly extending the "open" season.
As an option for an additional fee, a fully mechanical “direct-steering” system is offered, with which the AMG version is equipped as standard. A feature of this mechanism is the steering rack with variable gear ratio. In the “near-zero” position, the SLK steering wheel almost does not react to minor changes in the angle of rotation, which contributes to straight-line movement at high speeds and on not quite even surfaces. However, when turning the “donut” by five or more degrees, the gear ratio varies from 15.8: 1 to 11.5: 1. Due to this, from the lock to the lock with “direct-steering” you need to make a total of 2.16 turns.
It is very convenient when parking, and with increasing speed the steering wheel is filled with a pleasant weight. At the international auto show in Detroit 2011, the company Mercedes-Benz presented the third generation of its roadster SLK. The body of the new SLK has become more efficient in terms of aerodynamics, the drag coefficient has decreased from 0.32 to 0.30. The hood and front fenders are made of aluminum. There are small air intakes and LED running lights in the front bumper. The updated Mercedes SLK is offered with a metal folding roof, as well as panoramic windows with Magic Sky Control, which allows you to change the level of transparency of the glass at the touch of a button.
The third-generation SLK got a long hood, compact rear seats and a short back. The interior of the roadster has retained the typical sporty design. An additional analog clock above the center console is created with the sole purpose to highlight the stylish interior of the new SLK. Large round brushed aluminum appliances give the car a sporty feel. For calmer drivers, wood trim is available as an option.
The first thing that catches your eye is the central panel, equipped with a large LCD display. Will delight the new system AIRGUIDE wind-stop, reducing the noise level in the cabin when driving with the roof down. The Air Scarf system (“air scarf”), which is integrated into the head restraints of sports seats and protects the neck of the driver and front passenger from drafts.
The range of engines installed on the SLK begins with a 4-cylinder 184-horsepower SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY, a 1.8-liter capacity that accelerates the roadster from 0-100 km / h in 7.0 seconds. Mixed fuel consumption is 6.1 liters per 100 km, one of the most economical in its class. The next in the engine range is the SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY, 204 horsepower, from 0 to 100 km / h in 6.6 seconds and fuel consumption is 6.2 liters per 100 km. The top 6-cylinder version of the SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY is equipped with a V6 engine with direct injection and turbocharging. A 3.5-liter engine with a power of 306 horsepower accelerates the car to 100 km / h in 5.6 seconds.
Fuel consumption is 7.1 liters. For the first time in its history, Mercedes-Benz will launch a SLK roadster with a diesel engine. Prior to this, the German company installed only petrol units on its sports cars. SLK 250 CDI is equipped with a four-cylinder unit of 2.1 liters and a capacity of 204 hp. The maximum torque of the engine is 500 N • m. Up to 100 km / h car accelerates in 6.7 seconds. and is able to reach a maximum speed of 243 km / h. In tandem with the engine works seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-Tronic Plus.
The diesel roadster has become one of the most economical and environmentally friendly cars in its segment. A car is enough 4.9 liters of diesel fuel in order to drive 100 km in the combined cycle.