SLK/R170: considering purchasing a 230 or 320
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 17
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Porsche 993
considering purchasing a 230 or 320
Hello everyone,
This is my first post and it's intended to get some pre purchase advice on my first SLK. I recently been searching for an SLK for a DD for my wife. She prefers a straight drive and it seems that the 320's are more apt to have a manual than an 230. Is that a correct observation. I know that all models can and will have issues especially at 10-12 years old. Are the 230, autos a good choice as well as the 320 manuals? I'm just looking for some of the more common issues and things to be aware of. Is this a car for a DIY kind of guy? I'm competent at general servicing, brakes, suspension, so on. Thanks for the advice. I'm looking forward to my first SLK.
Randy
This is my first post and it's intended to get some pre purchase advice on my first SLK. I recently been searching for an SLK for a DD for my wife. She prefers a straight drive and it seems that the 320's are more apt to have a manual than an 230. Is that a correct observation. I know that all models can and will have issues especially at 10-12 years old. Are the 230, autos a good choice as well as the 320 manuals? I'm just looking for some of the more common issues and things to be aware of. Is this a car for a DIY kind of guy? I'm competent at general servicing, brakes, suspension, so on. Thanks for the advice. I'm looking forward to my first SLK.
Randy
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 31
Likes: 0
From: USA
1999 SLK230 Kompressor
Welcome! Personally, the 320 will give you a much smoother engine note and all around power because it is a V6. Both models are pretty good on maintenance; I drive a 1999 230 and much of my maintenance has been expected wear and tear : water pump replaced, thermostat replaced, coolant overflow container replaced (developed a crack in it and was leaking - very easy fix), brakes, tires, fuel filter, tie rod ends. Consider this, my car is 14 yrs old and most of the parts I have replaced were the original OEM which lasted me over 10 yrs before needing replacement. I feel as long as you start with a good build car and give it a lot of TLC it will last you a long time, if you intend to keep it that long. Other owners have had some issues with their convertible top cylinders leaking, K40 relay malfunctioning because of bad solder, and the interior paint peeling on the console and other areas subject to high traffic. So check for these as you shop and enjoy your ride when you do get it for the wife. Hope this helps some.
(your observation about the manual tranny is not entirely accurate; you are apt to find more auto than manual shifters for either model I believe).
(your observation about the manual tranny is not entirely accurate; you are apt to find more auto than manual shifters for either model I believe).
