Inside Line tests hundreds of vehicles a year, but not every one gets a full write-up. The numbers still tell a story, though, so we're introducing a new feature on Straightline called "IL Track Tested." It's a quick rundown of all the data we collected at the track, along with comments direct from the test drivers. Enjoy.
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 is the one of only two AMG models left that doesn't use the latest 6.3-liter V8. Instead, it gets by with an older 5.4-liter V8 that produces 355-horsepower. Sounds meager next to the 500+ horses belted out by the bigger 6.3, but remember this is a 3,500 pound roadster.
Compared to the standard SLK350, the AMG model also gets a fully upgraded suspension, larger wheels and tires, and upgraded brakes. For the record, there's an even more aggressive AMG Performance Package available for an extra $7,000 that adds an even stiffer suspension, new wheels and revised brakes.
Vehicle: 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG
Odometer: 6529
Date: 01/06/09
Driver: Chris Walton
Specifications:
Drive Type: rear wheel drive
Transmission Type: 7-speed Automatic
Engine Type: V8
Displacement (cc / cu-in): 5439cc (332cu-in)
Redline (rpm): 6,600
Horsepower (hp @ rpm): 355 @ 5.750
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm): 376 @ 4000
Brake Type (front): ventilated disc
Brake Type (rear): ventilated disc
Steering System: speed-proportional power steering
Suspension Type (front): MacPherson strut
Suspension Type (rear): multi-link
Tire Size (front): 225/40ZR18
Tire Size (rear): 245/35ZR18
Tire Brand: Pirelli
Tire Model: PZero Rosso MO
Tire Type: performance
Wheel Size: 18 X 7.5 front - 18 X 8.5 rear
Wheel Material (front/rear): alloy
As tested Curb Weight (lb): 3,474
Test Results:
0 - 30 (sec): 2.1
0 - 45 (sec): 3.3
0 - 60 (sec): 4.9
0 - 75 (sec): 6.8
1/4 Mile (sec @ mph): 13.0 @ 108.8
0-60 with 1-ft Rollout (sec): 4.6
30 - 0 (ft): 29
60 - 0 (ft): 115
Braking Rating: Excellent
Slalom (mph): 66.2
Skid Pad Lateral acceleration (g): .87
Handling Rating: Very Good
Db @ Idle: 48.4
Db @ Full Throttle: 80.3
Db @ 70 mph Cruise: 69.1
Acceleration Comments: With ESP on, the traction control system does an admirable job of containing the power. Shutting it off in "Drive Sport" ushered in a 1-2 short shift as the first hint of wheelspin. Had to resort to manual mode to achieve a decent launch, but then the slow tach had it hitting the rev limiter. Difficult, though not impossible, to get under 5.0 to 60mph and in the 12s for the quarter mile. Upshifts are sometimes slow/fast or smooth/harsh and I cannot determine why.
Braking Comments: Excellent brake power and fade resistance. New zero nose dive and pedal always felt trustworthy. Autobahn brakes.
Handling Comments: The very definition of "pushy-loose" where it understeers on throttle and snaps into oversteer when you jump out. Tenuous at best and dangerous at worst with ESP off in manual mode.
Like the skidpad, the SLK55 can be a handful in the slalom with ESP off in manual mode. That said, turn-in is crisp up to 9/10ths then starts to understeer. Throttle response is terrific, so a slide at the end is easily requested, but the short wheelbase makes it tricky to control. The PZeros step off pretty abruptly then slide predictably. This is how I imagine a V8 Monster Miata would feel.
hondacura4 says:
07:27 PM, 01/20/09
Never been an SLK fan no matter how fast or powerful.
huyracing says:
10:53 PM, 01/20/09
i dont see this as a traditional sports car... it falls in the "Grand Touring" category that the Supra Twin Turbo and 300ZX Twin Turbo occupied. lots of power, luxury laden, and great handling for what it is, but ultimately too heavy to be an ideal track car.
3ricchu says:
11:04 PM, 01/20/09
Haha, I've always wondered what a 7-speed manual pattern looks like?
"Transmission Type: 7-speed Manual"
05redrex says:
11:45 PM, 01/20/09
I liked AMG a lot more when they were low volume. Now it seems like you can get AMG wheels on anything for a few bucks more. I would expect this AMG to come one way - hard core - not with panty waist suspension.
cah11705 says:
04:21 AM, 01/21/09
still no slk63?
natew says:
09:37 AM, 01/21/09
The 2009 G55 AMG still uses the 5.4L supercharged V8, so the SLK55 is not the only one.
fst1 says:
10:38 AM, 01/21/09
@natew: We try to forget that the G55 exists around here, so please accept our apologies. Text amended.
EH
carfreak8394 says:
12:15 PM, 01/21/09
Wow, the G55 has been out for a looooong time, and nobody ever talks about it.. Is it because there's no point to the G55 for 99% of the U.S. population?..
huyracing says:
01:06 PM, 01/21/09
Its a legit SUV and people don't like it? Anything I can utilize in post apocalyptic times is a winner in my book.
anythngbutgm says:
01:13 PM, 01/21/09
In that case, neither would a Range Rover, the entire Hummer lineup or even a Jeep Wrangler. They all serve a purpose but are not built for mass market.
I know one person with a G55 in upstate NY who uses it to get to his cabin in Lake George. Been there myself, a full size Chevy Tahoe would be dead in the water half way up due to the ruts and pitfalls on the trail. Hummer would probably make it too (if none of the wheelsbreak off) and probably a Wrangler or Rover as well.
adavis2493 says:
05:57 PM, 01/21/09
I do think the SLK is an excellent looking car, but not in a sexist way, this is a girl car. I little beefed up V8 will not change that.
wasaabi92 says:
07:51 PM, 01/22/09
For every ten Range Rovers I see, there are probably three or four G55 AMGs around here, in Boston. I love the G55, and it's one of the few cars I would happily pay full price for a new car. As in, if I were to win the lottery, I'd run to the closest Benz dealership and drive away in a Black G-Wagen. It's so bitchin!
Also IL, why is it that with every European (or any vehicle that comes equipped with rear fog light(s)), you seem to drive with it/them on? You're the idiots I HATE ... driving around with your front and rear fogs on in the day time, or in traffic. They're really only supposed to be used when visibility is seriously hampered. I use my Saabs when it snows, but not when I'm out for a joy ride on some local B-roads. People who know what they are use them when they're needed, not for photo-ops in SoCal when it's 80 degrees at 3:30 pm.
Thanks for listening.