SLK/R171: RX8 to SLK350?
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2024 GLC300, 2014 BMW M235i
RX8 to SLK350?
I'm new to this section of MB World. I purchased a new GLK350 early this year and I'm so happy with it that I'm seriously considering replacing my Mazda RX8 with an SLK350.
I bought my RX8 new in 2004 and it only has 27k miles on it. I love the way it handles, the 6-speed manual transmission and lofty 9000 RPM redline, but I find myself tiring of the road noise and uncomfortable seats (after 2 hours or so).
I have yet to test drive the SLK350, but I'm intrigued with idea of having a convertible; a comfortable convertible at that, not to mention even quicker performance than my RX8.
So, I would appreciate driving impressions from you owners, particularly in the area of road manners and handling on winding roads.
Many thanks in advance.
3.5L
I bought my RX8 new in 2004 and it only has 27k miles on it. I love the way it handles, the 6-speed manual transmission and lofty 9000 RPM redline, but I find myself tiring of the road noise and uncomfortable seats (after 2 hours or so).
I have yet to test drive the SLK350, but I'm intrigued with idea of having a convertible; a comfortable convertible at that, not to mention even quicker performance than my RX8.
So, I would appreciate driving impressions from you owners, particularly in the area of road manners and handling on winding roads.
Many thanks in advance.
3.5L
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With no replies yet, I guess no one is really very impressed with the SLK350. Should I be looking for something else to replace my RX-8? Porsche?
3.5L
3.5L
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The SLK350 is a nice little car. Comfort will be a little better vs the RX8. I personally was impressed at all with the RX8 except for the 9,000RPM redline I found very impressive. I would take the RX-7 anyday instead.
I find the SLK too small for me but I do love them. Daily driving would be hard in a SLK. They do not ride like the SL. More of a sporty feel to them and stiffer. Go test drive the SLK if you do not like it then drive the SL. The SL is worlds above the RX-8 and I think you would be very happy with one. I sure love them but only a test drive will tell. Good luck!
I find the SLK too small for me but I do love them. Daily driving would be hard in a SLK. They do not ride like the SL. More of a sporty feel to them and stiffer. Go test drive the SLK if you do not like it then drive the SL. The SL is worlds above the RX-8 and I think you would be very happy with one. I sure love them but only a test drive will tell. Good luck!
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Thanks for the reply C280.
Interesting that you should mention the RX-7. I had an '85 model that I bought nearly-new in '85. It was the base model with the 4-barrel carburetor, but it was a blast to drive. A classic.
My RX-8 is a much stronger performing and better handling car, but the road noise just drives me nuts. If it was quieter I would consider replacing the seats with something more comfortable.
Anyway, need to go test drive the SLK and others. I'm afraid I'm at the age where comfortable seats and quiet interior are increasingly important to me. But, I still desire good handling and good acceleration.
Thanks again!
3.5L
Interesting that you should mention the RX-7. I had an '85 model that I bought nearly-new in '85. It was the base model with the 4-barrel carburetor, but it was a blast to drive. A classic.
My RX-8 is a much stronger performing and better handling car, but the road noise just drives me nuts. If it was quieter I would consider replacing the seats with something more comfortable.
Anyway, need to go test drive the SLK and others. I'm afraid I'm at the age where comfortable seats and quiet interior are increasingly important to me. But, I still desire good handling and good acceleration.
Thanks again!
3.5L
#5
The SLK is a fairly quiet, and comfortable car. It is a roadster, so handling is tight and some bumps are felt. Maybe the same in that respect as the RX8. I own an SLK280. It is my daily driver and I love it. The cockpit is tight, but enough room for me to be comfortable. The seats are good not great. They feel hard but are fairly supportive and comfortable. The 350 should be plenty fast.