1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK - General Data - Long-Term Update

1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Anywhere it goes, our screaming yellow Mercedes leaves a flurry of turned heads and unsolicited comments in its wake. The responsive, instant-roadster SLK serves up generous portions of sporty handling and top-down thrills, carving corners like a Craftsman power router. However, criticism continues for the 2.3-liter/185-horsepower DOHC inline four, whose raspy non-Mercedes-like noises remind of lesser products. Although sprightly, we wish the SLK's four possessed the low-end power and refined character exuded by the new corporate V-6. One editor aptly described the SLK as, "a cross between a C36 and a Miata; it has all the character of a Mercedes, as well as the fun handling, high visibility, impracticality, and disappointing power of the Mazda roadster." Handwashing the SLK gives an appreciation for its diminutive size, as you can practically clean it with a baby wipe during a TV commercial break. Unfortunately, a loose bracket allowed the stunningly intricate power top to crunch a hinge piece, gouging some roof paint. This was painlessly repaired under warranty at the first servicing.

National gas average prices courtesy of Lundberg Survey, Inc., Camarillo, California.