Driven: The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG Roadster

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG Roadster is an attractive and high-performance car. What makes this particular model unique is the “AMG” moniker. You see, any model with “AMG” in the name means that it’s a tuned version of the standard model.

As you might expect, the SLK 55 Roadster we’re reviewing today is anything but standard. If you want a fast cabriolet that also looks amazing, this could be the car for you. Keep reading to learn more about what the SLK 55 AMG Roadster has to offer.

What’s lurking underneath the bonnet? Is it a monster?

In a word, yes! Well, a mechanical beast. The SLK 55 AMG Roadster comes with just one engine and transmission choice. As standard, you get a 5.5-litre V8 engine mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox. Mercedes-Benz calls the transmission the “Speedshift Plus.”

The turbocharged engine boasts an impressive 415 brake horsepower. It’ll take you from stationary to 60mph in only 4.5 seconds. In layman’s terms, you’ve got an engine you’d usually expect to find in a supercar!

Speed freaks won’t be able to go faster than 155 mph because that’s the engine’s limit. Of course, the only time you could achieve such speeds is on a private race track. No sane person would go that fast on a public road!

The only downside to such a monstrous engine is the poor fuel economy. In fact, it’s not too bad at 33 MPG combined. Still, if you wanted an eco-friendly car, this roadster isn’t for you. And that’s not what AMG cars are all about.

What’s it like on the road?

Let’s make no mistake about it: the AMG Roadster is one fast convertible! Some might say I am slightly biased as I bought one recently through www.motorlinedirect.co.uk. But, I challenge anyone to say this isn’t a powerful piece of German engineering!

mercedes-benz-slk55-rear

The power is just there when you need it. Anyone that’s driven an AMG before will know the gearbox offers several driving modes. Comfort is for cruising, and Sport is more spirited driving. If you want complete control, the Manual mode is the one to select.

What I love about this car is its raw road-handling performance. All too often, many sports cars feel detached from the road. With the SLK 55 AMG, you know what’s going on at any given time.

Do you want your AMG to handle more like a go-kart? You may wish to consider an H&R Coilover kit from somewhere like partsformercedes-benz.com.

What equipment do you get as standard?

As one might expect, the AMG comes with a plethora of items as standard. Outside, you get 18-inch alloys and an AMG body kit for the car. You also get bi-Xenon headlights with cornering functions.

Inside, you get refinements such as air conditioning and heated front seats. Lest we forget, you’ve also got an electric hood as standard too.

Thanks for reading today’s review. I hope you enjoyed it!

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON

in

Cars

Photo of author

eddie

Eddie is a writer covering men's lifestyle topics for Unfinished Man. With a business degree and passion for writing, he provides reviews on the latest cars, gadgets, and other interests for today's man. Eddie crafts entertaining and informative articles aimed at helping readers live their best lives.

Leave a Comment