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Image credits: Mercedes-Benz
As the only eight-cylinder roadster in its segment, the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG delivers an exceptional driving experience. Now the two-seater is becoming even sportier: Mercedes AMG has developed an exclusive, emphatically puristic special
series as a coupé variant, a car that sets new standards in handling dynamics — the SLK 55 AMG Black Series. With the AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine, which has been boosted to 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Nm, the numerous lightweight components, the non-retractable carbon-fibre roof, 19-inch AMG forged wheels, AMG adjustable sports suspension and AMG high-performance composite brakes, the special SLK 55 AMG brings its sports car talents to bear even more convincingly — and cuts an impressive figure especially on racing circuits.
Broad, brawny and low-slung — it's clear at first glance that the SLK 55 AMG Black Series is something very special. It offers a captivating view from the front with a redesigned AMG front apron and its broad openings, which supply the added transmission-oil cooler and the high-performance steering-oil cooler with plenty of fresh air. In addition, new side outlets made of carbon ensure effective
ventilation for the engine-oil coolers. The front wings, now wider, are made of reinforced plastic with ultra-light carbon-fibre composite material and feature black outlined air outlets. The non-retractable hardtop of the two-seater is also made of carbon-fibre composites, and the black central section with a visible carbon-fibre structure provides appealing visual effects. The elimination of the vario roof and
the entire roof hydraulics not only makes possible a significantly lower centre of gravity but also leads to a notable reduction in weight: With a kerb weight of 1495 kilograms according to EC standards, the SLK 55 AMG Black Series is 45 kilograms lighter than the basic vehicle. That improves the weight/power ratio from 4.3 to 3.7 kg/hp.
AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Nm of torque-
Engineers not only optimised the weight but also gave the Black Series an optimised AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with a maximum output of 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Nm of torque. A modified air intake, reduced-resistance AMG sports air filters, new high-performance headers and a new valve-timing scheme ensure a more efficient charge cycle and make the eight-cylinder unit even more
responsive to accelerator pedal movements — which is also evident from the inimitable and even more impressive AMG V8 sound.
The combination of low vehicle weight and a powerful AMG eight-cylinder engine ensures first-class performance. This SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds (standard model: 4.9 s), and it takes just 15.5 seconds for the Black Series to reach 200 km/h (standard vehicle: 17.5 s). Power transmission is accomplished using the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC with manual drive program ('M') and AMG aluminium gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.
AMG adjustable sports suspension, forged wheels and composite brakes
The suspension and the brake system are the ideal partners for the dynamic power package. The AMG adjustable sports suspension, optimised for the racetrack, allows impressive cornering speeds. In this chassis technology taken from motorsport, the compression and rebound stages of the front and rear-axle shock absorbers can be tuned harder or softer — making it possible to adjust the
damping comfort and driving behaviour to one's individual purpose. The ride height can also be lowered or raised by five millimetres. The modified elastokinematics at the front axle and the specially tuned mounting of the major assemblies ensure more precise steering and stability when braking — which is
particularly advantageous in the intense driving on racetracks. A brace in the engine compartment guarantees additional rigidity to cope with higher lateral forces.
The SLK 55 AMG Black Series has large, ultra-light, forged AMG aluminium wheels in the sizes 8.5 x 19 and 9.5 x 19. Compared to the 18-inch light-alloy wheels of the standard vehicle in widths of 7.5 and 8.5 inches, the full wheel assemblies, including tyres, weigh four kilograms less. The advantage is even clearer when compared with equally wide, multi-piece 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. In this case, the weight savings come to 31 kilograms. The weight reduction results in a greater responsiveness on the part of the speed-sensitive power steering — which is also equipped with a more powerful servo pump. The elegantly proportioned multi-spoke forged wheels fill the striking wheel housings perfectly and are fitted with tyres of sizes 235/35 ZR 19 (front) and 265/30 ZR 19 (rear). As an option, and at no extra cost, the customer can also choose special Pirelli sports tyres with a very high grip factor and outstanding wet-driving properties. Superb braking is ensured by the AMG high-performance brakes with large composite brake discs (360 x 32 millimetres) and six-piston fixed callipers at the front axle.
Interior with the functional atmosphere of a real racing car
The racing features are consistently carried over into the interior. Two specially developed AMG sports bucket seats without sidebags in black pearl velour and with a silver AMG logo provide the best possible lateral support; the new AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel in leather and Alcantara permits optimal vehicle control. An abundance of carbon fibre on the interior door linings and the trim
elements, as well as the black roof lining, give the interior the functional atmosphere of a real racing car — and thereby affirm the almost 40-year motorsport history of Mercedes-AMG. The Black Series lettering on the carbonfibre trim over the glove compartment and on the boot lid signals the special
status of this powerful and puristic two-seater. Despite handling dynamics suitable for the racetrack, the SLK 55 AMG Black Series, manufactured by hand in the Performance Studio, offers all the features that set a real Mercedes-Benz apart: fitness for everyday use, durability, safety and quality. The first models of the unlimited AMG special series will be delivered to customers beginning in July. The price in Germany is € 107,300 (incl. 16 % VAT).Source - Mercedes-Benz
series as a coupé variant, a car that sets new standards in handling dynamics — the SLK 55 AMG Black Series. With the AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine, which has been boosted to 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Nm, the numerous lightweight components, the non-retractable carbon-fibre roof, 19-inch AMG forged wheels, AMG adjustable sports suspension and AMG high-performance composite brakes, the special SLK 55 AMG brings its sports car talents to bear even more convincingly — and cuts an impressive figure especially on racing circuits.
Broad, brawny and low-slung — it's clear at first glance that the SLK 55 AMG Black Series is something very special. It offers a captivating view from the front with a redesigned AMG front apron and its broad openings, which supply the added transmission-oil cooler and the high-performance steering-oil cooler with plenty of fresh air. In addition, new side outlets made of carbon ensure effective
ventilation for the engine-oil coolers. The front wings, now wider, are made of reinforced plastic with ultra-light carbon-fibre composite material and feature black outlined air outlets. The non-retractable hardtop of the two-seater is also made of carbon-fibre composites, and the black central section with a visible carbon-fibre structure provides appealing visual effects. The elimination of the vario roof and
the entire roof hydraulics not only makes possible a significantly lower centre of gravity but also leads to a notable reduction in weight: With a kerb weight of 1495 kilograms according to EC standards, the SLK 55 AMG Black Series is 45 kilograms lighter than the basic vehicle. That improves the weight/power ratio from 4.3 to 3.7 kg/hp.
AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Nm of torque-
Engineers not only optimised the weight but also gave the Black Series an optimised AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with a maximum output of 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Nm of torque. A modified air intake, reduced-resistance AMG sports air filters, new high-performance headers and a new valve-timing scheme ensure a more efficient charge cycle and make the eight-cylinder unit even more
responsive to accelerator pedal movements — which is also evident from the inimitable and even more impressive AMG V8 sound.
The combination of low vehicle weight and a powerful AMG eight-cylinder engine ensures first-class performance. This SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds (standard model: 4.9 s), and it takes just 15.5 seconds for the Black Series to reach 200 km/h (standard vehicle: 17.5 s). Power transmission is accomplished using the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC with manual drive program ('M') and AMG aluminium gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.
AMG adjustable sports suspension, forged wheels and composite brakes
The suspension and the brake system are the ideal partners for the dynamic power package. The AMG adjustable sports suspension, optimised for the racetrack, allows impressive cornering speeds. In this chassis technology taken from motorsport, the compression and rebound stages of the front and rear-axle shock absorbers can be tuned harder or softer — making it possible to adjust the
damping comfort and driving behaviour to one's individual purpose. The ride height can also be lowered or raised by five millimetres. The modified elastokinematics at the front axle and the specially tuned mounting of the major assemblies ensure more precise steering and stability when braking — which is
particularly advantageous in the intense driving on racetracks. A brace in the engine compartment guarantees additional rigidity to cope with higher lateral forces.
The SLK 55 AMG Black Series has large, ultra-light, forged AMG aluminium wheels in the sizes 8.5 x 19 and 9.5 x 19. Compared to the 18-inch light-alloy wheels of the standard vehicle in widths of 7.5 and 8.5 inches, the full wheel assemblies, including tyres, weigh four kilograms less. The advantage is even clearer when compared with equally wide, multi-piece 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. In this case, the weight savings come to 31 kilograms. The weight reduction results in a greater responsiveness on the part of the speed-sensitive power steering — which is also equipped with a more powerful servo pump. The elegantly proportioned multi-spoke forged wheels fill the striking wheel housings perfectly and are fitted with tyres of sizes 235/35 ZR 19 (front) and 265/30 ZR 19 (rear). As an option, and at no extra cost, the customer can also choose special Pirelli sports tyres with a very high grip factor and outstanding wet-driving properties. Superb braking is ensured by the AMG high-performance brakes with large composite brake discs (360 x 32 millimetres) and six-piston fixed callipers at the front axle.
Interior with the functional atmosphere of a real racing car
The racing features are consistently carried over into the interior. Two specially developed AMG sports bucket seats without sidebags in black pearl velour and with a silver AMG logo provide the best possible lateral support; the new AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel in leather and Alcantara permits optimal vehicle control. An abundance of carbon fibre on the interior door linings and the trim
elements, as well as the black roof lining, give the interior the functional atmosphere of a real racing car — and thereby affirm the almost 40-year motorsport history of Mercedes-AMG. The Black Series lettering on the carbonfibre trim over the glove compartment and on the boot lid signals the special
status of this powerful and puristic two-seater. Despite handling dynamics suitable for the racetrack, the SLK 55 AMG Black Series, manufactured by hand in the Performance Studio, offers all the features that set a real Mercedes-Benz apart: fitness for everyday use, durability, safety and quality. The first models of the unlimited AMG special series will be delivered to customers beginning in July. The price in Germany is € 107,300 (incl. 16 % VAT).Source - Mercedes-Benz
Animal, muscular, poised, predatory and competitive, those are the words used to describe the Mercedes-Benz SLK. Mercedes-Benz designers and engineers continue to remain the world leaders in created a peerless and beautiful vehicle.
For 1998 Mercedes Benz chose to unveil something different; a 2-passenger sports car with a supercharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine. Rather than a soft top though, the SLK featured a metal roof that powered down at the touch of a button into the trunk for stowage. Taking only 25 seconds, the trunklid opened forward for cargo, and tilted from the rear to raise or lower the top.
SLK stands for sporty, light, and compact in German. The design work behind the SLK stemmed from the compact C-Class sedan. The presence of the supercharged engine was marked with a 'Kompressor' badge on the front fenders. The Mercedes SLK only offered a 5-speed automatic transmission. Traction control, door-mounted side airbags and antilock brakes were standard features. When a special Mercedes child seat was installed, a 'BabySmart' feature automatically deactivated the right-side airbags. For 1997 the SLK was on Car and Driver's Ten Best list.
For the second year, the Mercedes-Benz SLK received a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, and the previously standard automatic transmission was now an option. A new Sport package was offered and included 'aero' lower-body cladding and performance tires on 17-inch wheels rather than the usual 16-inch wheels. Also becoming standard on the SLK was Mercedes 'Brake Assist' feature that automatically provided full braking force in emergency stops.
Not many changes were made for the 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK except for the addition of free scheduled maintenance to the SLK's warranty coverage.
For 2001 the SLK added the SLK320 into its lineup. The SLK320 featured a 215-hp V6 engine with an additional 5 horsepower and standard 6-speed manual transition. The following year a new SLK32 AMG model was unveiled. A supercharged version on the V6, the SLK32 AMG featured modifications to suspension, bodywork, transmission and interior by Mercedes AMG performance team. The SLK32 AMG had a 3.2 liter engine and was available in limited qualities in the U.S. and went from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The SLK 32 AMG was the best-performing SLK ever, and was direct competition to the BMW M Roadster and Porsche Boxster S. The SLK 32 AMG was only offered with automatic transmission and came with a hand built engine.
The SLK 320 was built in South Africa, rather than in Bremen, Germany. On January 29, 1997, the very first R170 Mercedes SLK was completed, while the last was built on April 7, 2004.
The SLK230 and 320 Sport package now mimicked the SLK32's lower-body aero trim, projector-beam fog lamps and wheels. For 2003 the Mercedes SLK remained unchanged. In 2004 the SLK featured a special edition package that was only available for the year for the SLK230 and the SLK320. This special edition package included 17-inch wheels, exterior chrome accents, a body-colored grille and Nappa leather sports seats and roll bar. The SLK200 wasn't available for sale or purchase in the U.S., but overseas- and those who utilized the gray market in the U.S. – received a more economic and fuel efficient and slightly toned down 2.0 136 horsepower engine that was found in the SLK200.
The second generation of the SLK was unveiled in 2005, the R171. The retractable hard top SLK350 was returned to the market with enhanced handling, the power of a 3.5 liter V6, and a more uses friendly and elaborately detailed interior. The SLK350 Roadster was featured in 2006 along with the SLK280. Keeping most of the same features and options as the SLK350, the 280 was offered as a less costly option for a 3.0 V6 engine.
In 2007 the SLK55 AMG was released and built in very limited quantities and for high performance drivers. This version came equipped with a 5.4 liter V8 engine, 18 inch chrome wheels, and a sports car designed suspension with brakes and tires to match. The interior of the SLK55 AMG featured heated Napa leather upholstery and detailed luxury sport trim and control panels.
For this same year, no major changes were made to the Mercedes Benz SLK 350 or SLK 280 cabrioles or coupes. The public weighed in and the overwhelming review was that the SLK was spectacular with invigorating and responsive handling.Elizabeth Johnson
For 1998 Mercedes Benz chose to unveil something different; a 2-passenger sports car with a supercharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine. Rather than a soft top though, the SLK featured a metal roof that powered down at the touch of a button into the trunk for stowage. Taking only 25 seconds, the trunklid opened forward for cargo, and tilted from the rear to raise or lower the top.
SLK stands for sporty, light, and compact in German. The design work behind the SLK stemmed from the compact C-Class sedan. The presence of the supercharged engine was marked with a 'Kompressor' badge on the front fenders. The Mercedes SLK only offered a 5-speed automatic transmission. Traction control, door-mounted side airbags and antilock brakes were standard features. When a special Mercedes child seat was installed, a 'BabySmart' feature automatically deactivated the right-side airbags. For 1997 the SLK was on Car and Driver's Ten Best list.
For the second year, the Mercedes-Benz SLK received a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, and the previously standard automatic transmission was now an option. A new Sport package was offered and included 'aero' lower-body cladding and performance tires on 17-inch wheels rather than the usual 16-inch wheels. Also becoming standard on the SLK was Mercedes 'Brake Assist' feature that automatically provided full braking force in emergency stops.
Not many changes were made for the 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK except for the addition of free scheduled maintenance to the SLK's warranty coverage.
For 2001 the SLK added the SLK320 into its lineup. The SLK320 featured a 215-hp V6 engine with an additional 5 horsepower and standard 6-speed manual transition. The following year a new SLK32 AMG model was unveiled. A supercharged version on the V6, the SLK32 AMG featured modifications to suspension, bodywork, transmission and interior by Mercedes AMG performance team. The SLK32 AMG had a 3.2 liter engine and was available in limited qualities in the U.S. and went from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The SLK 32 AMG was the best-performing SLK ever, and was direct competition to the BMW M Roadster and Porsche Boxster S. The SLK 32 AMG was only offered with automatic transmission and came with a hand built engine.
The SLK 320 was built in South Africa, rather than in Bremen, Germany. On January 29, 1997, the very first R170 Mercedes SLK was completed, while the last was built on April 7, 2004.
The SLK230 and 320 Sport package now mimicked the SLK32's lower-body aero trim, projector-beam fog lamps and wheels. For 2003 the Mercedes SLK remained unchanged. In 2004 the SLK featured a special edition package that was only available for the year for the SLK230 and the SLK320. This special edition package included 17-inch wheels, exterior chrome accents, a body-colored grille and Nappa leather sports seats and roll bar. The SLK200 wasn't available for sale or purchase in the U.S., but overseas- and those who utilized the gray market in the U.S. – received a more economic and fuel efficient and slightly toned down 2.0 136 horsepower engine that was found in the SLK200.
The second generation of the SLK was unveiled in 2005, the R171. The retractable hard top SLK350 was returned to the market with enhanced handling, the power of a 3.5 liter V6, and a more uses friendly and elaborately detailed interior. The SLK350 Roadster was featured in 2006 along with the SLK280. Keeping most of the same features and options as the SLK350, the 280 was offered as a less costly option for a 3.0 V6 engine.
In 2007 the SLK55 AMG was released and built in very limited quantities and for high performance drivers. This version came equipped with a 5.4 liter V8 engine, 18 inch chrome wheels, and a sports car designed suspension with brakes and tires to match. The interior of the SLK55 AMG featured heated Napa leather upholstery and detailed luxury sport trim and control panels.
For this same year, no major changes were made to the Mercedes Benz SLK 350 or SLK 280 cabrioles or coupes. The public weighed in and the overwhelming review was that the SLK was spectacular with invigorating and responsive handling.Elizabeth Johnson
2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG Black Series |
|
| Year | 2007 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK 55 AMG Black Series |
| Engine Location | Front |
| Drive Type | Rear Wheel |
| Production Years for Series | 2004 - 2008 |
| Weight | 3420 lbs | 1551.3 kg |
| Combined MPG | 0.00 |
| Introduced At | 2007 Frankfurt Motorshow |
| Performance | |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 seconds. |
| Top Speed | 174 mph | 280 km/h Similar top speeds |
| Coefficient of Drag | 0.35 |
| Engine | |
| Engine Configuration | V |
| Cylinders | 8 |
| Aspiration/Induction | Normal |
| Displacement | 5.40 L | 329.5 cu in. | 5400.5 cc. |
| Horsepower | 400.00 HP (294.4 KW) @ 5750.00 RPM |
| Torque | 520.00 NM (383.4 Ft-Lbs) @ 3750.00 RPM |
| HP to Weight Ratio | 8.6 LB / HP (Vehicles with similar ratio) |
| HP / Liter | 74.1 BHP / Liter |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Petrol |
| Vehicles with similar horsepower and weight | |
| Standard Transmission | |
| Gears | 7 |
| Transmission | Tiptronic |
| AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC | |
| Dimensions | |
| Cargo Volume | 9.80 cu. ft. |
| Standard Payload | 0.00 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Exterior | |
| Length | 160.701 in | 4081.8 mm. |
| Width | 70.601 in | 1793.3 mm. |
| Height | 50.001 in | 1270 mm. |
| Wheelbase | 95.701 in | 2430.8 mm. |
| Interior | |
| Front Headroom | 37.901 in | 962.7 mm. |
| Front Legroom | 42.501 in | 1079.5 mm. |
| Vehicles with similar dimensions | |
| Suspension | |
| Suspension | adjustable sports suspension |
| Steering | |
| Rack and Pinion with Power Assist | |
| Turning Circle | 34.501 ft |
| Brakes | |
| Front Brake Size | 360.001 mm | 14.2 in. |
| Rear Brake Size | 360.001 mm | 14.2 in. |
| Tires / Wheels | |
| Tires | Front : 235/35 ZR 19 Rear : 265/30 ZR 19 |
| Wheels | Front : 8.5 x 19 Rear : 9.5 x 19 |
| View Wallpaper |
| View Specifications |
| Similar Automakers |
| Add Review |
| Manufacturer Website |
| Other models by Mercedes-Benz |
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| Related Articles and Event Coverage |
| 2007 Frankfurt Motorshow |
| Vehicle Spotlight | ||
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