SLK230's getting a bad reputation?

PerfectFinish1 · 03-15-05, 11:27

Hey everyone,

I'm a senior in high school.. and I told everyone freshman year that I would have an SLK230 by the time I graduate... and I think I'm going to do it. I'm probalby looking at a 99 or 2000. The price is dropping more and more lately, and I think in a month or two I'm finally ready to make the purchase. However, I keep hearing about how unreliable these cars are. I don't believe that will be TOO much of a problem if the car was well taken care of, and I continue to take care of it... or are these cars just total junk?

Performance-wise I have also heard that they are extremely slow. They're supercharged and not very heavy, so I was just curious about how they can possibly seem so slow? I understand that it will be a mid 15-second car or so according to the specs... but is the supercharger pulley upgradable or anything?

If nothing else, I guess it would make a nice car to detail

SSQ · 03-16-05, 12:22

My cousin used to own one, and long term wise, the reliability isn't a problem. There might be small problems here and there, but there won't be anything major.

The reason for the price drop is that the new SLK is already out.

Yes, these cars are mighty slow. Like most mercedes, it is heavier than cars it's own size. Plus in the case of it being a hard top convertable adds a good amount of weight to it with all the motors and mechanisms.

It's a car to look cool in, but you will not be able to impress much people with it's performance. A grandma in a v6 camry can slaughter it.

Corey Bit Spank · 03-16-05, 03:26

This car makes the Audi TT feel "sporty" and that isn't saying much. I drove one 2 years ago and it had to be one of the most boring 2 seat convertibles I have driven.

the other pc · 03-16-05, 05:31

Even with forced induction a 2.3L motor isn't an awful lot for a 3000lbs+ car. They're a sweet ride, a great boulevard cruiser rather than a sports car.

Keep in mind that any Mercedes is expensive to maintain and repair. So even one that has been well cared for and bulletproof reliable is going to be pricey to keep. As a minimum a car in the age range you're looking at will likely be due for some scheduled maintenance (nobody stays on top of the schedule if they know they'll be selling it soon).

Unfortunately, far too many owners (all cars not just MB) don't even bother with scheduled maintenance. A Mercedes that's been neglected or abused can be a huge money pit.

PC.

LouisanaJeeper · 03-16-05, 05:44

its a chick car

you would be MUCH better off with a used 99 vette or a older used M3

MongooseGA · 03-16-05, 05:51

Quote:

Originally posted by LouisanaJeeper
its a chick car

you would be MUCH better off with a used 99 vette or a older used M3

True story.

BoxsterCharlie · 03-16-05, 07:37

Quote:

Originally posted by Corey Bit Spank
This car makes the Audi TT feel "sporty" and that isn't saying much. I drove one 2 years ago and it had to be one of the most boring 2 seat convertibles I have driven.

Bingo. I finally drove one a few months ago, wondering why the automotive press slams it so hard. Well, it really isn't much to drive. There are some things about it I like, especially the very cool hardtop. But if driving is the main criteria, I'd say pass. I get more fun out my my BMW 330i, and that isn't saying too much!

PerfectFinish1 · 03-17-05, 10:13

Hmm well, I almost died in my TSi yesterday when racing a new M3, so now I'm really thinking of not getting so fast of a car. Thanks for the posts, I don't know too much about the car other than I like the hard-top convertable and I like that it's a benz.

What would you guys suggest? I'm looking for something with more of a luxury factor, that I can make shine nice and a cool crusing car. Vettes are nice... but not my thing... looking for something german. (Besides, insurance would be HORRIBLE for me) I'm considering a GS300 or something like that maybe... or a newer 3 series coupe.

DETAILKING · 03-17-05, 10:54

European cars have among the worst reliability ratings. A used mercedes will cost a lot to mantain....just general maintanance. Perhaps a certified car with an extended warranty would mitigate some of the expense some but then you will pay top dollar. If you are looking for a flashy fun car....there is definately a better bang for the buck out there.

SilverLexus · 03-17-05, 12:59

This is the issue: reliability. Mercedes is really getting it from these issues. In Europe, it was revealed today, the Mercedes registrations were down 16% versus up like 30+% for BMW. Even in Europe, the Benz name is suffering.

I have a hard time feeling sorry for them at the high prices they charge.

ChippsAChoi · 03-17-05, 01:53

Quote:

Originally posted by LouisanaJeeper
its a chick car

you would be MUCH better off with a used 99 vette or a older used M3

I would have to attest to this statement. However, the new SLK's are real nice, retractable hard top, 3.5 litre engine.

If you're looking for a convertible there aren't that many out there for a younger person to buy, IMO, unless you have 30K to spend on a used M3 or S2000.

Also do realize that when you buy a Benz the labor cost for everything are expensive. min 120/hr for any work.

MongooseGA · 03-17-05, 09:27

Quote:

Originally posted by PerfectFinish1
Hmm well, I almost died in my TSi yesterday when racing a new M3, so now I'm really thinking of not getting so fast of a car. Thanks for the posts, I don't know too much about the car other than I like the hard-top convertable and I like that it's a benz.

What would you guys suggest? I'm looking for something with more of a luxury factor, that I can make shine nice and a cool crusing car. Vettes are nice... but not my thing... looking for something german. (Besides, insurance would be HORRIBLE for me) I'm considering a GS300 or something like that maybe... or a newer 3 series coupe.

I hate to say it, but this right here makes me think you don't need a "sporty" car. I'm glad you had a revelation about this. Maybe you should have gotten a ticket for the racing, instead of having a loud exhaust.

And I see you as a normal young American wanting a Benz because it's a Benz. Not necessarily the best thing, but as long as you like the car for the car.