Mercedes Sends Off SLC With New Final Edition. Is It The End Of An Era?

The Mercedes SLK was a huge hit when it was launched in 1996, but its popularity has faded with time.

In the United States, sales peaked at 12,930 units in 2000. Those are some pretty decent numbers, but SLC sales fell to 1,993 units last year. Given the drop in demand, it’s not that surprising Mercedes is ending production of the SLC later this year, without having communicated any plans for a successor. For now, what we know for sure is that they’re sending off the current SLC with a special Final Edition.

The Final Edition

Designed to pay tribute to the iconic roadster, the SLC Final Edition features a number of unique touches. The US-spec SLC 300 has a Selenite Grey exterior with gloss black accents and 18-inch alloy wheels. Since the model is based on the AMG Line variant, it also has sporty bumpers, a sport-tuned suspension and an upgraded braking system.

Moving into the cabin, there’s two-tone Nappa leather sport seats, grey seat belts and “carbon leather” accents. Drivers will also find bright aluminum trim, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and special floor mats. Other niceties include heated seats, the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system and plenty of “Final Edition” badging.

Fans looking for more performance can opt for the SLC43 Final Edition which features a Sun Yellow exterior that pays tribute to the SLK’s original launch color of Yellowstone. Other special touches include gloss black accents and 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels with a matte black finish.

Under the hood

Engine options carryover as the SLC 300 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 241 hp (180 kW / 244 PS) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque. This enables the roaster to run from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.8 seconds before hitting a limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

The AMG variant has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine which churns out 385 hp (287 kW / 390 PS) and 384 lb-ft (520 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra power, the dash from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) is cut to 4.6 seconds while the top speed remains unchanged.

Pricing and availability

The SLC Final Editions will arrive at U.S. dealership next year and pricing will be announced closer to launch.

European customers will receive a similar Final Edition, but theirs will be available two additional engine options. The SLC 180 has a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque. Fans can also order an SLC 200 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder packing 181 hp (135 kW / 184 PS) and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) of torque.

Deliveries are slated to begin next month and German pricing ranges from €41,536.95 for the SLC 180 to €65,045.40 for the SLC 43 (including 19% VAT).