1998 mercedes benz slk class slk230 kompressor

1998 mercedes benz slk class slk230 kompressor manual#
1998 mercedes benz slk class slk230 kompressor full#

We think the most interesting feature, however, is the SLK-Classs BabySmart system. Since roadsters are more likely to be involved in a rollover accident, the SLK-Class also has a super-reinforced A-pillar and integrated roll bars behind each seat. The SLK-Class features standard antilock brakes and automatic slip control as well. Dual airbags and side-impact airbags are standard. Mercedes broke the mold in this regard and laid all of its current safety technology on this relatively inexpensive car. One thing that most roadsters are not noted for is their safety features. Other than the heavy-duty lower enhancements, the Sport Package replaces the side-mounted 'Kompressor' badge with 'Sport' (don't worry, German-language buffs, the 'Kompressor' badge now appears on the decklid). Now maybe the demure SLK-Class can be taken seriously when parked next to the ferocious visages of the Z3 2.8 or Boxster. Also added are beefier 17-inch treads: 225/45ZR-17 front tires and 245/40ZR-17 rear tires. The new Sport Package includes additional beef around the car's lower extremities, providing a muscular and more aerodynamic appearance. The '99 SLK-Class also receives a facelift, or rather, some AMG-certified steroids. The SLK-Class races to 60 mph in just over seven seconds this year, but some think the exhaust note doesn't sound baaaad enough on start from a standstill, so Mercedes is working on putting a bit more roar into it. Overall, the SLK-Class is a hoot to drive and its 200 pound-feet of torque, available across an incredibly wide rpm range, make it a choice vehicle for carving through traffic or up a spiraling mountain road. The steering is precise, the engine is eager and willing, and the suspension is wonderfully damped. Mercedes got the recipe right the first time with excellent steering, a powerful engine and a smooth suspension.

1998 mercedes benz slk class slk230 kompressor full#

While Mercedes-Benz product planners still expect automatics to account for a full 80 percent of North American SLK-Class sales, at least one-in-five buyers still appreciate the old-fashioned approach to driving enthusiasm. Of course, an automatic transmission is still available, but it's now listed as a $900 option (an option which also costs the car 61 pounds of added curb weight).

1998 mercedes benz slk class slk230 kompressor manual#

Raising and lowering consists of pressing one button on the center console.įor 1999, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is equipped with a manual transmission as standard equipment. Unlike its competitors from BMW, Porsche and Mazda, however, the little Mercedes has a retractable steel roof that, when up, makes the car seem as tight as an E-Class sedan. The SLK-Class is a roadster, which means that it has two seats and a top that folds down. The SLK-Class has a decidedly playful countenance that will undoubtedly charm some buyers out of the BMW showrooms that those looking for a fun, sporty car have been frequenting for so long. Nevertheless, Mercedes-Benz was still not the marque that young professionals looking for a good time were likely to think of first.Īll of that changed with the introduction of the SLK-Class last year. The result of that decision brought us the fabulous C- and E-Class cars, which made the company and its offerings seem less stuffy. A few years ago, the gang at the three-pointed star decided that it was time to ditch their dowdy image and begin attracting younger buyers. When Mercedes-Benz sets its sights on something, it is usually not denied.