Now that Mercedes have completed the re-branding of their model range, it’s about time we took a step back and analyzed the direction they’re headed in as far as their small roadsters are concerned.
There’s no denying the fact that this SLC is more attractive overall than any previous SLK model, if not for its performance, then for its appearance and updated interior. Then again, it’s not the manliest convertible in the world, and the SLK 55 AMG’s front fascia was arguably a bit more aggressive.
Of course, none of that will matter as long as you’re behind the wheel of the flagship 43 AMG version – we reckon most people would feel pretty good once putting its 367 PS and 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque to good use. You’re looking at a car that’s quick enough so as to reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.7 seconds, and that’s very impressive.
While you could argue that Mercedes dropped the ball by not having this SLC 43 AMG flat out destroy the previous SLK 55 AMG in terms of performance (it’s actually down on power and 0-100 times), keep in mind that this isn’t a particularly competitive segment and that Mercedes aren’t going to be pressured into adding more and more power so as to upset competitor X or Y, as they do with most of their other models.
The SLC 43 AMG is quick enough – and that’s probably the correct way to think about it. But is it attractive enough for most customers to consider buying it over the cheaper Audi TTS and BMW Z4 sDrive35is? You don’t lose any time accelerating to 100km/h in either of them, compared to the SLC 43, and that’s got to count for something. Keep in mind, the 2016 SLK 55 AMG is a $72,600 car, and for that type of money you can easily get a Boxster S, with even the GTS within spitting distance.
Of course, if you really want to stand out, there’s always the 2016 Jaguar F-Type Convertible, which starts at $68,100 – and that’s been called one of the most beautiful cars in the world.
Tough sell this SLC 43 AMG, isn’t it?
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