SLK/R170: SLK 230 K Vs SLK 320
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From: Alicante (Spain)
SLK 320 (2002 Model)
SLK 230 K Vs SLK 320
When i decided buying my SLK I was looking for a SLK 320 '02 , I know this 6 cylinder engine is well proved, very smooth, and it sound like a baby cat.
But I finished buying a 230K '02 because it was (not really much) cheaper. And the idea of driving a Kompressor excited me.
Anyway SLK 230K: 198 Hp and 0-60 mph in 7.2sec against SLK 320: 218 Hp and 0-60 mph in 7sec is not a big diference. but sometimes I regret not buying the bigest model.
So do you think diferences between SLK 230 and SLK 320 are really big, ???? or are more or less the same and I well be happy with my choice.
Regards
But I finished buying a 230K '02 because it was (not really much) cheaper. And the idea of driving a Kompressor excited me.
Anyway SLK 230K: 198 Hp and 0-60 mph in 7.2sec against SLK 320: 218 Hp and 0-60 mph in 7sec is not a big diference. but sometimes I regret not buying the bigest model.
So do you think diferences between SLK 230 and SLK 320 are really big, ???? or are more or less the same and I well be happy with my choice.
Regards
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Joined: Dec 2002
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From: Montana/Alberta
C63 BS, GLA45
I've owned all 3 SLK models. The biggest difference between the SLK 230 and the SLK 320 is the sound. The 230 sounds like a truck after hearing the 320. The sound alone is worth the difference in price.
The V6 is also much smoother and has a wider power band. Low end TQ is non existant on the 230, the 320 just eats it off the line. I've ran the 2 cars side by side from 0-200km/h, and the SLK 320 wins on the launch because of the better low end torque. After 1st gear, both cars pull even up to 200km/h. The power difference is so small that both cars will accelerate at the same speed from a roll.
By the way, the biggest model is the SLK 32, and moving up to that is night and day
.
The V6 is also much smoother and has a wider power band. Low end TQ is non existant on the 230, the 320 just eats it off the line. I've ran the 2 cars side by side from 0-200km/h, and the SLK 320 wins on the launch because of the better low end torque. After 1st gear, both cars pull even up to 200km/h. The power difference is so small that both cars will accelerate at the same speed from a roll.
By the way, the biggest model is the SLK 32, and moving up to that is night and day
.
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Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 569
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From: Chandler, Arizona - USA
'02 SLK32 AMG
I owned an SLK230 for 2 1/2 years. I didn't upgrade to the SLK320 because there just wasn't enough difference to justify the upgrade.
My personal opinion:
1. If you're trying to save money, you should buy a used SLK230. You can surpass the performance of a 320 with a pulley kit for only $700.
2. If you want a new car and you want to maximize value, buy and SLK320 with little or no options.
3. If you plan to modify the engine at all, DO NOT buy an SLK320.
4. If you plan to heavily modify the car for performance, buy an SLK32 AMG and save yourself alot of time and money.
My personal opinion:
1. If you're trying to save money, you should buy a used SLK230. You can surpass the performance of a 320 with a pulley kit for only $700.
2. If you want a new car and you want to maximize value, buy and SLK320 with little or no options.
3. If you plan to modify the engine at all, DO NOT buy an SLK320.
4. If you plan to heavily modify the car for performance, buy an SLK32 AMG and save yourself alot of time and money.
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Joined: Dec 2002
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Congratulations first of all
you made a good decision regardless of the engien - what Americans frequenty not appreciate is the fact that you Europeans pay heavy for increased engine displacement and fuel. Thus, the 2.3L is a good compromise. The 32K is overkill in speed-restricted countries like yours, or the US, regardless of what owners claim. The 3.2L is smoother but the 2.3L is not that far behind - if you've got some Euos left, and if local laws permit, you can easily increase hp to 230-250.
As to engine tuning: In the US it is really easy to do this as the government doesn't as long as emission and safety are not (obviously) affected, which means, in reality, they never care in most States. I suppose this is somewhat different in your country, and you have to get some kind of certification for any modification, and you may have to inform your insurance company. You may also loose part or all of your factory warranty even if it is legalized. So, before ordering e.g., a pulley kit you may want to check these points carefully. If you then still want to mod, this board will be offering plenty of advice!
As to engine tuning: In the US it is really easy to do this as the government doesn't as long as emission and safety are not (obviously) affected, which means, in reality, they never care in most States. I suppose this is somewhat different in your country, and you have to get some kind of certification for any modification, and you may have to inform your insurance company. You may also loose part or all of your factory warranty even if it is legalized. So, before ordering e.g., a pulley kit you may want to check these points carefully. If you then still want to mod, this board will be offering plenty of advice!
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Joined: Feb 2010
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Mercedes Benz SLK 230 2001 and wife's 2014 Volvo XC70
Either car is fantastic to cruise around in and a blast to drive. The 230 red/black leather interior with the classic retro metal dash treatment has got to be one of the coolest interiors ever in a sport car - it's art.
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Joined: Jan 2008
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C300 Sport/Palladium Silver on Black/P2
I think you made a good decision.
As you say, acceleration is very similar, and you get to keep money in your pocket by burning less petrol. Smart move. You will continue to be very happy with your car.
Put the top down and enjoy.
As you say, acceleration is very similar, and you get to keep money in your pocket by burning less petrol. Smart move. You will continue to be very happy with your car.
Put the top down and enjoy.
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Joined: Mar 2007
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320 vs. 230
I have owned both. My 230 was fantastic and the torque curve created by the supercharger was exciting. I stepped up to the a 320 this time because my 230 developed a head gasket problem and the tranny needed replacing. I believe all due to the supercharger. I wanted to go with a bigger, stronger engine and trannny so I could avoid these problems in the future and I'm glad I did. My 320 has a beautiful sound when accelerating. The engine is barely turning at 70 mph. And even though it's not supercharged, the acceleration is similar to the 230, with more torque at the bottom end. I am very happy with my decision and while the 230 is a fine automobile, i can't say i would ever go back. And you're right the price difference, at least in the used market, is almost non-existent... maybe a grand, if that.
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Mercedes Benz SLK 230 2001 and wife's 2014 Volvo XC70
Good question. I hope someone answers, I'm curious too. I have to get a little rust fixed on mine on the bottom of the fenders - there goes my 2 grand
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SLK 230
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Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 25
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Mercedes Benz SLK 230 2001 and wife's 2014 Volvo XC70
Yes. A 32 would be nice wouldn't it. Upgrades to the 230 are pretty pricey. But I'd sure like to have another 30 hp in my '01 Sport model. The red/black interior with the burnished aluminum trim has been brought back, but only in the big boy models
