2009 Mercedes-Benz Slk in Kannapolis, NC - $9,995

Elegant, tasteful, modern, classy. Featuring exterior styling best defined as athletic, the SLK's exterior sheetmetal bears the family resemblance to the larger roadsters in the Mercedes-Benz line-up. Available in SLK300 and SLK350 trim levels, power for the small Mercedes-Benz roadster is generated by 3.0L V6 prime mover for the SLK300 and a 3.5L V6 powerplant for the SLK350. Torque is communicated to the street through a fully synchronized six-speed manual for the SLK300 and a seven-speed automatic transmission with Touch Shift for the SLK 350.

On the road, the SLK delivers strong and awe-inspiring performance -- confident, comfortable and solid. The front-to-rear weight balance is nearly ideal for predictable, almost surgical precision at speed. The large four-wheel disc brakes stop the SLK from gazelle-like speeds quickly and safely. The four-wheel independent suspension system features a three-link front configuration with antidive geometry and a low ride height, while at the rear, a five-arm multi-link configuration includes a stabilizer bar and lowered ride height and geometry for anti-squat and alignment control. Front coil springs over gas-pressurized shocks complement separate coil springs and shock absorbers at the rear.

Inside the cabin is a work of modern art. Conservatively elegant, the SLK combines displays, switches and controls in a modern, clean and very simple presentation which is as easy to use as it is beautiful to admire. The retractable hardtop is quick and simple -- one button with no latches to fuss with. The hardtop can also be remotely lowered or raised with the operation of the key fob.



Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 95.7; overall length: 160.7; width: 70.4; height: 51.0

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 3.0L V6 - 228 hp at 6,000 rpm and 221 lbs-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm; 3.5L V6 -- 300 hp at 6,500 rpm and 265 lbs-ft of torque at 4,900 rpm

Transmission: six-speed manual, seven-speed automatic

EPA fuel economy: 3.0L V6 - 17 city/26 hwy; 3.5L V6 - 17 city/23 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 9.8 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, all-speed anti-slip regulation, electronic stability program, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, front/rear fog lamps, engine immobilizer, SmartKey system, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitors, remote keyless entry, roll bar – rollover protection, alarm system, side-impact door beams, and Tele Aid Service

Optional safety features include Bi-Xenon high-intensity headlamps, cornering fog lamps, navigation system and garage door opener.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: unlimited/unlimited 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster starts from $47,650 for the SLK300 and $53,300 for the SLK350. Destination charges add $875.