Hello
We're considering a SLK 55. I think I read somewhere that the oldest models got bigger brakes. If so, what model years?
I also think it's a tad down on power, is it possible to get it to 400 hp without opening the engine?

Anything else than the roof mecanism to especially look out for when buying?

Thanks for all insight!

 

Get the newest one you can get. Just have to get a p30 package car. You can probably get to 340/350whp with a good tune and MBH headers, and catless, also E85 will add power.

 

just a tune alone brings it close to 400. Add the headers, air box, and even a supercharger kit and you are rolling! Engine BHP I am taking.

 

Several years ago I had a 2006 SLK55 AMG HARDTOP CONVERTIBLE bought used back in 2009 with around 28K miles on the ODO. I kept it until 2017 and sold it with around 65K miles on the ODO.

No problems the entire time I owned it. As I recalled 2006 model had the bigger brakes. I think in 2008 MB changed to smaller brakes.

It's true if the hardtop convertible mechanism breaks down, it's gonna cost you. The hydraulic pump brand new is around $3K USD. Maybe cheaper if rebuilt? IDK.

One thing for sure 😃 it was a BLAST to drive around. Then I got my Lexus RCF which I liked very much and the SLK55 AMG just sat there. So I sold it.

 

How does the slk55 compare to the lexus rcf honestly? I feel like it's two very different machines. The slk almosts seems gokartish to me in terms of size. Just looks like a lot of fun to drive with the top down.

-Nigel

 

No doubt the SLK55 AMG HARDTOP CONVERTIBLE was a blast to drive around especially with the top down. However, in the hot and humid summer months where I was working at in the deep south it was not enjoyable at all with the top down. During fall and spring it was all good.

I find the Lexus RCF (the V8 full "F" version, not the 4 or 6 cylinder "F Sport" version) more refined and more of a "GT" cruiser with a better ride if the trip is more than half an hour which my commute at the time was just under an hour. Not to mention the power is a lot more (350hp SLK55 AMG vs 499+hp modified RCF).

Make no mistake about it the SLK55 AMG HARDTOP CONVERTIBLE is an EXCELLENT car and I enjoyed it tremendously while I had it. But given the choice of the SLK55 AMG VS the Lexus RCF....... I liked the Lexus RCF better. I know, I know.....it's a "FIRST WORLD" problem.

 

Thank you for the information! I've always liked the SLK, it's a very attractive car. Always figured the slk55 was a hoot to drive. I'm 6'2" and have never sat in one before but I can imagine it's probably cramped for someone my size... I didn't realize the RCF made that much power! That's actually pretty sweet... plus the reliability of a Toyota pretty much. My wife has a lexus and it's nice. I currently have a w211 e350 and it's nice as well but I've always wanted an AMG. The only downfall is the technology in the SLK would be severely lacking compared to the obviously newer RCF, but in all reality I think you are right. RCF just makes more sense! I like to mod cars to an extent... not nearly as much as what I've done to my STi, but the market doesn't seem to be that much for the SLK. They still look so good though! Hard to believe some of the pictures are 15 year old cars.

-Nigel

 

The RCF stock makes around 467 hp. This varies bc each RCF ENGINE is "hand built" in Japan. Much the same way the AMG engine is hand built in Germany. I guess MB stick on a plate on the top of the engine with the dude's name.

With the full cat back Borla exhaust and the KN air filter, I gained about another 20 to 25 some more horses.

When things go wrong with either of the two .... It will cost you more than most other cars. But a lot more cost in the AMG and a lot more chances for things to go wrong as the car ages.

The new Lexus Lexus LC500 CONVERTIBLE is VERY VERY SWEET. But it has a price tag around $110K+ brand new. I think I will wait a few more years. The LC500 CONVERTIBLE is not a "full F model", but still very nice indeed (especially the interior is just amazing".