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Auto Express Car Reviews
Mercedes SLK 55 AMG
So if the CLS has too much power, then how does the new AMG version of the SLK cope? The answer is it does so without a supercharger, which means a drop of 116bhp compared to the CLS.
By Roland Loewisch
October 2004
So if the CLS has too much power, then how does the new AMG version of the SLK cope? The answer is it does so without a supercharger, which means a drop of 116bhp compared to the CLS.
But it's a reduction that's welcome. After all, the excess of muscle is the CLS's worst enemy, and as the SLK is much lighter, putting 476bhp through the rear wheels would be too much for even the most capable driver.
Without the blower, the SLK is still breathtakingly quick. It sprints from 0-60mph in only 4.9 seconds, accompanied by a fabulous exhaust note, while the seven-ratio Speedshift auto gearbox allows changes with steering wheel-mounted paddles. Unlike the CLS, you can also turn the ESP driver aid off, giving you more flexibility to set the car up properly. Yet it never gets out of shape, as the traction control takes over before the chassis hits its limits.
The SLK has a totally different character to the CLS. It's more rewarding and balanced, and one of the most desirable cars in the AMG line-up.
Pictures
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FIRST OPINION
- The SLK 55 AMG is a rewarding driver's car, although its choppy ride means it's not ideal for motoring around town. Yet on the open road this is an immensely enjoyable two-seater, and confirms our suspicion that the non-supercharged version of Merc- edes' 5.5-litre V8 engine is in some cases preferable to its supercharged stablemate.
AT A GLANCE
- On sale this month
- Comes with Mercedes' 'Airscarf' neck-warming vents
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