Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster (04-11) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 20 April 2009
The Mercedes-Benz SLK is a feel-good convertible. Every one of its engines is a pleasure to drive, it looks stunning and has a party-piece in its folding metal roof. Inside it’s well built, comfortable and well equipped. As a result it’s been a hit for Mercedes-Benz and used prices have stayed high. But while it's undoubtedly desirable, the more powerful models are expensive to run and the manual gearbox - standard on smaller engined versions - isn't pleasant to use. Plus in terms of driver involvement it can't match the likes of the Porsche Boxster. But for refinement and style - few convertibles come close.
4 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Buying used

Buyers overwhelmingly opt for automatic transmission. If you must have a manual, you could be in for a wait for the right car - they account for just a handful of sales. The most common model on the market is the 200K - it's an affordable and fun package. All cars benefit from a 30-year 'Mobilolife' warranty package - as long as the servicing is kept up.

  • Boot/Load Space Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster (04-11)
  • Interior Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster (04-11)

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See 124 used Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadsters for sale, starting at £9,499

4 out of 5

Selling

Demand continues to be strong for this roadster - it's a great all-round package: stylish, easy to drive and utterly desirable. Waiting lists are common and as a result it's easy to sell one on. Only models registered in the months running up to April 2008 may prove trickier - if at all. This is when a raft of changes were introduced to make SLK's engines cleaner and therefore cheaper to run. Buyers could prefer cars registered just after the changes.