Mercedes-Benz SLK R171, facelift 2008 SLK 280 V6 (231 Hp)


Overall Rating

8 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 3.9 / 5
Performance 4.2 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz SLK:

The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a compact executive roadster, produced by Mercedes-Benz. It was released in 1996 and was manufactured at the Mercedes plant in Bremen, Germany, until 2020.
The former name "SLK" was derived from sportlich , leicht , and kurz. With the release of the facelift R172 in 2016, the SLK-Class was renamed to SLC-Class in accordance with the revised nomenclature adopted by Mercedes. Under this scheme, roadsters use the base name "SL", followed by the model's placement in Mercedes-Benz hierarchy, the letter "C", being the roadster equivalent to the C-Class....(Read more on Wikipedia)

R171, facelift 2008 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171, facelift 2008). With 300 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1380 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.3 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A two-seater convertible designed for open-top driving pleasure. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.

SLK 280 V6 (231 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A competent V6 engine delivering good power for daily driving and spirited moments, with a 6.3 sec 0-100km/h.

Fuel Economy

Moderate fuel consumption between 9.3-9.5 l/100 km, offering a reasonable balance.

Best Use Case: Mixed Driving / Daily Commute

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Retractable hardtop offers coupe security and roadster freedom
  • • Strong and diverse engine options, from economical to high-performance AMG
  • • Stylish and timeless design, especially after the facelift
  • • Engaging handling for a luxury roadster
  • • High-quality interior materials and build

Cons:

  • • Limited practicality with only two seats and modest trunk space
  • • Firm ride quality may not suit all drivers
  • • Some known reliability concerns with M272 (balance shaft) and M271 (timing chain) engines
  • • Interior can feel cramped for taller occupants
  • • Higher running costs for V6 and V8 models

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(R171: April, 2005 - December, 2007).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:SLK
Generation:R171, facelift 2008
Modification (Engine):SLK 280 V6 (231 Hp)
Start of production:April, 2008
End of production:April, 2009
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Roadster
Seats:2
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:231 Hp @ 6000 rpm.
Power per litre:77.1 Hp/l
Torque:300 Nm @ 2500-5000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 272.942 [Same engine] More details about the engine M 272.942
Engine displacement:2996
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:8 l
Coolant:7.1 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:88 mm
Piston Stroke:82.1 mm
Compression ratio:11.3:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:13.6-13.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.7-6.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):9.3-9.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):13.6-13.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):6.7-6.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:9.3-9.5 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 4
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:6.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:6.3 sec
Maximum speed:250 km/h, Electronically limited
Weight-to-power ratio:6 kg/Hp, 167.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.6 kg/Nm, 217.4 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1380
Max. weight:1770
Max. roof load:50 kg
Max load:390
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:208 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4107 mm [18mm more]
Width:1788 mm [Same width.]
Height:1296 mm [2mm less]
Wheelbase:2430 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Width including mirrors:2005 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.51 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires sizeFront wheel tires: 205/55 R 16
Wheel rims sizeFront wheel rims: 7 J x 16
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer

Is the Mercedes-Benz SLK the king of its class? Share your thoughts.