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Summary
Many of us have a soft spot in our hearts for traditional sports cars. In quantifiable ways, the new breed, as exemplified by the SLK, is better. Safer, faster, and more environmentally friendly, they represent a high point in automotive design. Mercedes-Benz has put a lot of value into the SLK, from basic design to sophisticated powertrain to all the standard comfort and convenience features. But we stop short of calling it the best of the new breed. Buyers choose sports cars by subjective measurements, and there are two other new Teutonic roadsters with distinctive personalities of their own. But if you're interested in any of these seductive newcomers we strongly recommend spending some time with the SLK before making a final decision. It's a unique achievement, even for a company that specializes in the best of everything.
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
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Model Lineup:
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Engines:
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2.3-liter dohc 16v supercharged 4-cyl. |
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Transmissions:
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5-speed automatic |
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Saftey Equipment (standard):
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ABS, dual front airbags, airbags, fixed rollover bars |
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Saftey Equipment (optional):
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Basic Warranty:
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4 years/50,000 miles |
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Assembled In:
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Stuttgart, Germany |
Specifications As Tested
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Model Tested (MSRP):
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SLK 230 |
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Standard Equipment:
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(base) Automatic climate control a/c, power retractable hardtop, leather interior, AM/FM/cassette audio, power windows, power mirrors, keyless remote entry, adjustable steering column, aluminum alloy wheels, traction control |
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Options As Tested (MSRP):
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Destination Charge:
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Gas Guzzler Tax:
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Price As Tested (MSRP):
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40295 |
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Layout:
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Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
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191 @ 5300 |
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Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
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206 @ 2500 |
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Transmission:
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5-speed automatic |
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EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
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22/30 |
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Wheelbase:
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94.5 |
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Length/width/height:
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157.3/67.5/50.8 |
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Track, f/r:
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58.6/58.3 |
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Turning circle:
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34.7 |
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Seating capacity:
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2 |
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Head/hip/leg room, f:
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37.4/51.7/26.8 |
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Head/hip/leg room, m:
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Head/hip/leg room, r:
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Cargo volume:
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12.3 |
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Payload:
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Towing capacity:
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Suspension, f:
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Independent |
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Suspension, r:
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Independent |
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Ground clearance:
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Curb weight:
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2922 |
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Tires:
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P205/55R-16/P225/50R-16 |
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Brakes, f/r:
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disc/disc |
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Fuel capacity:
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14.0 |
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