What is it?
It’s the facelifted Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG. And it’s a lot like the un-facelifted Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG.
Unlike the SLK350, whose considerable engine revisions will filter through to other models in the Mercedes range, the SLK55 AMG’s engine, as a reflection that it’s nearer the end of its life-cycle, has remained entirely untouched by the current facelift. “We could have improved it,” AMG’s Marcus Weber told us, “but already [at 355bhp] it’s the most powerful engine in this class.”
What’s it like?
There are some who will mourn the gradual replacement of AMG’s 5.4-litre '55' engine by the latest 6.2-litre '63' unit and, driving the revised SLK55 AMG, it’s not hard to understand why.
This is probably the most characterful engine in the class. The 5.4-litre V8 has no supercharger here, which is all the better to hear its considerable exhaust-woofle. It makes peak power at a relatively accessible 5750rpm and peak torque of 376lb ft at 4000-. Acceleration claims are unchanged: 0-62mph takes 4.9sec.
AMG has made some detail gearbox alterations. Mercedes’ press info talks of reduced shift-times, but AMG’s engineers are more circumspect: software changes mean the 7-speed auto kicks down more readily in Sport, less readily in Comfort, they say. Unless you’ve just stepped from a pre-facelift car you won’t notice the difference. It’s a shame, though, that the engine/transmission software can’t blip the throttle on downshifts.
Visual and cabin updates freshen the SLK a little, but the suspension remains the same as before.
The new 55 AMG gets Merc's Direct-Steer variable ratio steering as standard (optional on other SLKs). Like Porsche’s Servotronic, it has a lower steering ratio around the straight-ahead than it does off centre, so gets more direct the more you turn. It makes the SLK feel more agile.
Should I buy one?
Maybe. The most well-rounded SLK is, in truth, the 350, while a Porsche Boxster has more in its dynamic locker than the 55. But the SLK55 AMG is still an immensely likeable old beast. And while it remains more of a hot-rod than a sports-car, really that’s okay. Especially when it has an engine so worthy of one.
Matt Prior
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Re: Mercedes SLK55 AMG
Last SLK made me car sick. Think the chassis was made out of granite and total detachment from the road (like the high seating position in a 4x4) makes me car-sick. So I got out and tried driving. Agghhh. Same feeling even when I was 'feeling' the car!
But the journo's report this SLK (like new Audis) are much more in-touch with the road and more alive. Would certainly like to try this compact sportscar with uber-grunt. Good looking too.
