2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK32 AMG Convertible
Result: PASSED IN
Specifications
| Engine | 3.2L V-6 Supercharged |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Body Work | Convertible |
| Colour | Silver |
| Interior | Black |
| Trim | Leather |
| Wheels | Cast Alloy |
| Brakes | Discs |
Description
Mercedes-Benz's small open-top sportscar, the SLK, debuted in 1996. Initially designated the R107 code, to date (2013) the class has continued over three generations, the R107 being followed by R171 in 2004 and R172 in 2011. Translated, the acronym SLK stands for Sportlich (Sports), Leicht (Light), Kurz (Short) and told you all you needed to know about the design intent of the Mercedes engineers. In 2000 a facelifted R170 series was introduced, and in 2001 came the first overtly sporting variant: the SLK 32 AMG. Tuned by the famous in-house AMG tuning arm, the SLK 32 AMG was powered by a 260kW supercharged 3.2-litre V-6 engine. This was backed by the 'Speedshift' five-speed automatic gearbox which claimed a 35 per cent improvement in shift times over the standard transmission. Each engine was hand-built by an AMG engineer. Of course, brake sizes were increased and suspension tuning made the most of the extra power. Predominantly sold in the American market, finding a right-hand drive example is the main challenge, with only 28 sent to Australia.
