SLK-Class (R170) 1998-2003: SLK 200, SLK 230K, SLK 320

SLK/R170: Comparison question between models/transmissions

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Rate Thread
 
Old May 17, 2010 | 07:47 PM
  #1  
Koru_Kinshi's Avatar
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 1,276
Likes: 5
From: California
2018 E63S AMG, 2003 SLK 230 Sport, 2004 SL 600, 2006 SLK 55 AMG, 1998 E320 Wagon
Comparison question between models/transmissions

I'm seriously considering acquiring an SLK as my second car, but it appears I have some delusions that must be solved.

Is the 5-speed SLK 230 any faster or slower than the 6-speed? Also, is there a noticeable difference between the 230 and 320 engine?
Reply
Old Jun 30, 2010 | 07:42 AM
  #2  
AndyW210E55's Avatar
Junior Member
 
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 61
Likes: 0
From: Tucson AZ
3000 dollar SLK230
I have driven Both a few times. I honestly can't see too much of a perk in the 320. I'd get a AMG sport package 230. The sport package makes it look like a totally different car. I was super disapointed in the 320, 30 hp makes almost no difference in the acceleration. The sound on the 320 is much much better than the 230, but you can always mod the sound on the 230. Youll know when you find the right SLK.
Reply
Old Jun 30, 2010 | 09:32 PM
  #3  
Ausmbtech's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,152
Likes: 29
From: Sydney, Australia
190D 2.5 (x2), 190E 2.6, W202 C240,W202 C43 (C55), W210 E55, W212 E250CDI
In terms of real world fuel consumption, both engine are about the same, maintainece is slightly higher on the V6 (12 spark plugs vs 4), real world power is similiar due to the shorter diff ratio on the 230. In terms of feel and sound the V6 has a big advantage, it sounds more "relaxed" and doesn't sound like it's working hard.

As for transmissions, stick with the Auto (5speed). the manual is ok but it's not really an particually "involving" transmission. You will get bored of the manual and clutch feel doesn't suit performance driving.
Reply

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 


You have already rated this thread Rating: Thread Rating: 0 votes,  average.


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 02:17 PM.

story-0
New Electric Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe Unveiled: 10 Things You Need to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes-AMG's new electric GT 4-Door Coupe trades combustion for software, synthetic noise, and more than 1,100 horsepower.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-20 20:08:15


VIEW MORE
story-1
6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

Slideshow: Not every Mercedes design becomes timeless, some feel stuck in the era they came from.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-12 18:09:07


VIEW MORE
story-2
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

Slideshow: Yes, Mercedes built manual cars, and some of them are far more interesting than you'd expect.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-02 12:36:58


VIEW MORE
story-3
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-29 11:19:28


VIEW MORE
story-4
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

Slideshow: Before curves took over, Mercedes mastered the art of the straight line, and some of those shapes still look right today.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-25 12:05:49


VIEW MORE
story-5
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

Slideshow: The 190E Evolution II shows how a homologation necessity became a six-figure collector icon.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-22 17:53:47


VIEW MORE
story-6
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes is turning one of its core nameplates electric, and the details show just how serious this shift is.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-21 13:58:06


VIEW MORE
story-7
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

Slideshow: Faster charging, longer range, and a controversial steer-by-wire system define the latest evolution of Mercedes-Benz EQS.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-15 10:35:34


VIEW MORE
story-8
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

Slideshow: These overlooked Mercedes-Benz models never got the spotlight, but they quietly delivered more than most remember.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-13 19:35:45


VIEW MORE
story-9
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

Slideshow: A well-used 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300D with more than one million miles is now looking for a new owner, and it still appears ready for more.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-10 10:05:15


VIEW MORE