Description

Moving into its second generation for the 2005 model year, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class roadster retained its retractable hardtop but adopted a different front end with a large three-pointed star in the center and small grilles on each side. Inspired by Silver Arrow Formula One racecars, the 2005 SLK-Class was meant to resemble the automaker's new SLR McLaren supercar. Mercedes claimed that this generation of the SLK-Class was "more aggressive, sportier and more powerful" than its 1998 - 2004 predecessor. The SLK350 holds a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 that drives a six-speed-manual gearbox or an optional seven-speed-automatic transmission with Touch Shift operation. This engine benefits from variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust valves. A new SLK280 version with a 228-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 is available for the 2006 model year. Mercedes-Benz also offers an SLK55 AMG edition with V-8 power.