Peabody

I posted a poll in this thread looking for some external feedback in making a difficult choice. basically I'm stuck trying to decide between a SLK55 or E550 and my wife, as usual, is no help whatsoever.. "just get whatever you want."

OK55

If you're seeking to replace the CK35, I'd recommend the SLK55. If you're not and merely want space with some oomph, then maybe the e550. Note however that the latter will lack the signature AMG rumble & presence of the former...
Brgds

A' La F1

I read your budget of $65k. Which is a fair amount. The SLK is totally different than the E550. If you already have a sedan, then go with the SLK; it is an absolute blast to drive since it weighs about 700 pounds less than the E class. Have you considered a certified pre-owned? You can probably get a 1 or 2 year old SLK55 and save $20k. Then spend that $20k on a supercharger kit, wheels, suspension, etc. and have a 500+ hp killer. You'll never drive that NSX again.

Another option is to blend the two by getting a used SL55; heavy, but plush and the top goes down.

OK55

Tempting...very tempting!

rondocap

E550 is only OK performance wise, I think it isn't as responsive as the AMG cars. SLK55 is definitely a pretty fast and nimble car. Are you only looking at new? If used, you can find a nice CLS or E class AMG (55 or 63) for less than your price range, and they will be faster than the SLK.

rya96797

2 very different cars. If your objective is performance, slk55 > E550.

ProjectC55

I like them both. The SLK would be fun but the E550 is NO Slouch as ststed by a few of my buddies who r mechanics at MB. The E550 will give you luxury and power. The SLK is a sacrifice when it comes to room,space,taking fam and friends out. All depends on what u want.
The E550 runs very strong all around though.

Want to have just a fun car go SLK55 but I'd take a E550 or a CLK550 over a SLK55 that's just me for practcality.

Mark.D

If your buying used, you could probably get both for $65k.

http://www.kbb.com/used-cars/mercede...&mileage=30000

http://www.kbb.com/used-cars/mercede...&mileage=30000

Both Model Year 2007 with 30,000 miles, and keep in mind: those are MSRP's

Peabody

The idea of a CPO isn't very appealing to me, considering I'm all about the 2012 SLK 55's new look. Does anyone know when ordering starts on it? I talked to my dealership and they said starting in March they are taking orders on the SLK 350 for June delivery, but was not sure about when the AMG will go on sale.

AKnight55

E550.. SLK is for chicks

rya96797

will probably be a year (maybe) before a new AMG is announced.

rya96797

I've actually had pretty positive feedback about the 55 from both men and women. Overall, guys seem to like the hardtop convertible, v8, and exhaust. Women seem to like the compact size, mb branding, and the overall look. With sports cars I drove previously, I'd only get guys commenting on the car, total dick magnets... Find it pretty interesting to hear women actually say "nice car" to you or "I like that car". Tends to make the car purchase/owning the car go over better with the g/f or wifey if they like it as well.

Of the few 55s I've seen around, most were men. For the non-amgs, I see a mix of men and women driving them.

BTW, the E55 was one of the final cars in my decision of which car to purchase, but I steered away from it partially because of the airmatic issues. Would be fun to have a blown AMG. Nowadays the line up is NA or turbo. I think E55 instead of E550 would make the decision much tougher for the OP. A very practical, yet an extremely fast sleeper, versus a totally impractical, fast 2 seated roadster that does draw attention.

But yeah, seeing as how the OP has a CK35, the E550 would be far less of a shock adjusting to no rear seats, 1/3 the trunk space and low ride height of the slk. Front bumper of the car does not clear a curb.

Peabody

In case you didn't notice, it's to replace my wife's BMW.

According to this week's issue of AutoWeek it will be announced at Frankfurt in September and produce 422 hp (This number has been changing between sources over the last year).

AKnight55

Guess I missed that part.. If its for the wife, then the SLK would be fine.. Personally I think if your male looking for a drop top Benz, then the SL is the only one to go with.. SLK is fine for a female though..

Peabody

Well, I might have just made a left-field decision. I found an '08 white AMG CLS 63 that is low mileage CPO'd and under $70k. I might buy that, hand the wifey the C class to drive, and wait for a CPO'd '12 SLK 55 a few years down the line.

AMGJared

Doesn't sound like a bad idea.

elijah

No I doesnt & white is THE color for an AMG CLS.

AKnight55

CLS>SLK anyday

fredfromny

especially lap times on the track!

AKnight55

Neither the SLK or CLS were built for the track anyway.. If your looking for a track car, then your in the wrong place pal..

UK-C200

Good luck with that - MY10 was the last of the R171 AMG SLK's, and no R172 AMG has been announced yet.