Slick Shift
When the original Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster debuted some 20 years ago now (my how does time fly), it brought about a revolution in open-top motoring. Its folding hard-top roof, the automotive world’s first such application in decades, sparked off a trend that lasted well into the early years of the millennium. At one point it appeared that nearly every manufacturer had a convertible with a hard-top roof in its line-up.
The SLC 200 model tested here has a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot petrol that puts out 184bhp and 300Nm of torque. 0-100km/h comes up in 6.9 seconds, which is certainly not too shabby, and there is definitely enough power to meet the needs of the urban cruiser. In Sport mode especially the car feels somewhat energetic and urgent, peppy and ready to go.
That said, while the SLC 200 is by no means slow, it doesn’t quite have the same dynamic abilities as some of its rivals, such as the Audi TT Roadster. Rather, you get the sense that the SLC is set up more for comfort. The ride quality is excellent, and the car is quite happy to roam the long straight expressways all day long, rather than indulge you with spirited driving.
For the most part the SLC handles reasonably well, with decent composure, but it never quite feels engaging. There’s not much to fault really to be honest, because the SLC is a different kind of roadster as compared to its sportier rivals. It chooses to take it easy, being reasonably competent dynamically while excelling in overall refinement and comfort.
The name change and slight nip-and-tuck has freshened up Merc’s compact roadster, but generally its qualities remain pretty much untouched. The SLC excels in looking good, which matters a whole lot to the people who buy these sort of cars. It doesn’t fall short in interior ambience or overall comfort, but those seeking an exciting drive might probably want to look elsewhere. For everyone else though, the SLC remains quite the posh roadster to be seen in.
Credits: Text by Benjamin Chia, Pictures and video courtesy of Benjamin Chia and Jonathan Tan
- Convenient and Hassle-Free
- Consumer Protection
Transparent Process
With No Obligation
Get the Best Price for your used car
from 500+ dealers in 24 hours
