
Mercedes-Benz SLK
Although little bigger than a Porsche Boxster, the compact SLK Roadster is a clever machine that combines the practicality of a Coupe with the drop-top allure of a convertible. It was introduced originally in 1997 as the R170 modelrange line and became an immediate success, providing a useful range-filler below the outstanding SL range, yet possessing immense modelrange strengths of its own, not the least of which lay in its metal folding convertible roof. whilst it may have been perceived as an expensive extravagance by early observers, it has proved to be so practical that virtually every manufacturer has at least one metal-lidded convertible in its line-up of modelranges. Of course, as a long-nosed, bob-tailed sporty number, the SLK, which stands for "Sport - Leicht - Kompressor" in German or "Sport - Lightweight - Supercharger" in English, handles like a traditional sports car. Its firm suspension is supple enough on bumpy road surfaces, but it can be upset by sharp ridges. Yet, the feel through the steering wheel possesses all the hallmarks of a classical sports car. Being RWD aids the impression and supports the car's place in the new car scene. When the new, significantly sleeker modelrange (R171) hit the road in 2005, it featured even more styling nuances and historical references than either the SL or the previous generation SLK. It is actually very beautiful to look at and features a subtle version of the F1-style nose-cone that links the Mercedes to its present Formula One association. whilst it is compact in exterior dimensions, it will still carry two large people in its practical and neatly styled cockpit and the boot-lid does open to reveal a substantial luggage space, as long as the roof is not folded. The Mercedes SLK 200k Blue Efficiency and SLK320 Sport convertible make a good proposition with sensible rates on PCP (buy on finance) or PCH (Mercedes SLK Blue Efficiency contract hire or Mercedes-Benz leasing) because the Mercedes SLK depreciation is less compared with other compact convestibles. Dont miss the new Mercedes SLK 2LOOK EDition Blue Efficiency because its contract hire lease rates are on special offer for fixed lowcost leasing month by month; Mercedes lease deals are available across the whole Mercedes SLK Tiptronic range and for private or commercial users.