Used Mercedes-Benz SLK 2004 - 2011 review

The original Mercedes SLK was as stodgy to drive as it was sporty to look at, but this second-generation model is a significantly better car.

Its suspension is firm enough to keep the body composed in corners yet sufficiently supple for long journeys to be pleasurable. And while it still doesn’t handle as well as a Porsche Boxster or Audi TT Roadster, it’s enjoyable enough.

Best of all, the SLK is very practical for a two-seater. The comfortable interior has plenty of space, while the boot has enough room for a weekend’s luggage as long as the roof is left up.

And then there’s the roof itself, which is made from metal and has a clever scissor action that turns the SLK from a snug coupe into a svelte roadster in less than 30sec.

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Prices start at about £5000 for early SLK 200s, while our favoured SLK 350 model is available from about £6000, although in both cases you’ll be looking at a car that has covered almost 100,000 miles.

A late, low mileage SLK 350 that’s in good condition and loaded with options will set you back about £15,000.

The Mercedes SLK 200 might be a sleek two-seater sports car, but it’s not going to break the bank. Its fuel economy of 32.5mpg is respectable, and a fair bit better than the mid-20s of the V6-engined SLK 280 and SLK 350 models. The V8-engined SLK55 AMG, meanwhile, will struggle to top 20mpg in the real world.

Servicing is likely to be the biggest single cost, especially if you use a franchised dealer, because Mercedes dealers’ labour rates are near the top end of the scale and replacement parts aren’t cheap.

All SLKs attract hefty insurance premiums, with the SLK 200 sitting in group 37-42. The SLK 280 is in group 42, the SLK 350 in 43-45, and the SLK 55 AMG is in group 47.

Even the entry-level SLK 200 model is quick enough, thanks to its supercharged 1.8-litre engine. Indeed, its slightly less frantic performance makes it less intimidating for drivers new to the sports car experience.

For the real deal, though, you can pick from the 280 and 350 V6s, which are both quick and sound great. The 280 was only introduced in 2006, so there are more 350s out there for used buyers. We’d go for the SLK 350 because it will cost barely any more to buy than a 280 of the same age and it offers more performance.

Alternatively, if you want something altogether more hardcore, the SLK 55 AMG is a real humdinger of a sports car, with a 5.4-litre V8, a loud exhaust and a firmer ride.

All SLKs are well equipped, but try to find one with the optional Airscarf fitted; this wafts warm air around your neck when the roof is down.

The original Audi TT Roadster was a lot like the original Mercedes SLK, in that it looked the business but was dreary to drive. However, the second-generation SLK, introduced in 2007, was a revelation, with sharp handling and a punchy yet frugal turbocharged 2.0-litre engine. In fact, it was so strong that it made the V6 alternative redundant.

Another two-seater convertible that’s worth considering is the BMW Z4. On sale since 2002, it had a very firm ride and a traditional soft-top hood until 2009, when a new version with a folding metal roof was introduced. The suspension on this new Z4 struck a fine balance between comfort and control, and the one major downside was that you could only have the car with thirsty six-cylinder engines until late 2011.

If fuel economy isn’t a major concern, then the Porsche Boxster should also be on your list. It will cost you more than a SLK, TT or Z4 of similar age, but it is one of the best handling sports cars you can buy, at any price.

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