Mercedes SLC, A Real Veteran

If there is a modern vehicle that already has extensive experience in its segment and has an enviable history, it is the SLC, better known as SLK. Well, at least it was until Mercedes decided to adapt the nomenclature to that of the rest of the range after the half-cycle renewal that corresponded to the third generation.

Direct rival of the Audi TT Roadster and the BMW Z4 by positioning, and rival of the Mazda MX5 by concept, the small German sports car is one of the most correct proposals. The demand is decreasing and it is becoming a fairly exclusive car on Spanish roads, where recreational cars have less and less public.

A bipolar car

As a good hardtop roadster , the SLC has two clearly differentiated facets: that of a small sports coupe with which to enjoy a long cruise at cruising speeds as a couple without soundproofing problems; and that of a fun convertible with which to get carried away on a good curvy road with your hair blowing in the wind.

Unfortunately, the front end that the brand implemented in the revision that it underwent a few years ago does not match very well with the rest of the lines of the car, so it tarnishes a set that until then was the best. The rear for its part has only changed the design of the pilots and the diffuser.

Inside of another time

The interior is without a doubt where the passing of the years is most noticeable. It should be remembered that when this car was still released as SLK it was in 2011. 

At the wheel

The sensations once behind the wheel are very neutral, although the short wheelbase is noticeable in its agile and direct behavior, while the rear-wheel drive helps round the corners with a single touch of gas.

The main benefit of the rigid roof is the extra security it provides in the event of an accident;  While greater soundproofing and tightness are minor details in this type of car, thanks to this type of roof they are much better than in a convertible with a canvas roof.

Versions

In the case of a model whose sales are more than testimonial, it is not surprising that the range has been reduced to only two mechanical options, both gasoline.

The first of them, the SLC 200, delivers a power of 184hp. It is enough to enjoy driving this rear wheel drive and indulge yourself from time to time, even if it is not designed for very sporty use.

On the other hand, we have the 367 hp AMG 43 version . In this case it is a rather outdated V6, and the AMG versions of the A-Class, CLA and GLA outperform the SLC with a four-cylinder and lower consumption.

Worse if possible is the absence of a version ‘pata negra’ as when it was called SLK;  As in the rest of the brand’s range, the AMG 43 are intermediate versions that, after the arrival of the new nomenclature, became signed by the well-known preparer.

The traction in both cases is rear, while for the transmission there is available a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic; the latter is the only option on the AMG. Without a doubt, a renowned model for Mercedes that will unfortunately say goodbye in a very short time without making much noise.

Prices

The rates to access an SLC Roadster start from 46,150 euros for the SLC 200, although due to the situation in which the car is found, it is very possible to find greedy discounts that leave a final price close to 40,000 euros. Thus, perhaps it would be worth buying this beautiful two-seater convertible, despite the fact that it is an older product.

If what we are looking for are greater benefits, from 68,300 euros we find the SLC 43 of which, as is to be expected given its positioning, it is practically impossible to find any discount.

Mercedes SLC data

• 3 doors
• 2 places
• Trunk: 335 liters
• Rear-wheel drive
• 4-cylinder and V6 engine with 184 hp and 367 hp, respectively
• Consumption and emissions: from 6.1 l / 100km and 142 g / km of CO2
• 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic transmission
• Price: from 46 150 €