The Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171, facelift 2008) SLK 350 V6 represents a significant evolution in the German automaker’s history of luxury roadsters. Launched in 2004, the R171 series built upon the success of the R170, offering a more aggressive design, enhanced technology, and improved driving dynamics. The focus keyword, the Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171, facelift 2008) SLK 350 V6 (305 Hp), refers to the mid-cycle refresh introduced in April 2008. This facelift refined the aesthetics, interior, and boosted the performance of its V6 engine. Positioned in the premium compact roadster segment, the SLK 350 V6 blended open-air motoring, sophisticated luxury, and genuine sports car performance, appealing to buyers in North America and Europe.
The Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171, Facelift 2008): A Refined Roadster
The R171 generation was distinguished by its “Formula 1” inspired nose, a design cue reflecting the brand’s motorsport heritage. The 2008 facelift further refined this design, alongside new engine options and technological advancements. The SLK 350 V6 variant struck a balance between the entry-level four-cylinder models and the high-performance AMG versions. It offered a thrilling driving experience without the extreme characteristics or price tag of the SLK 55 AMG, making it a well-rounded and desirable two-seat roadster.
Engine & Performance: The Heart of the SLK 350 V6
The Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171, facelift 2008) SLK 350 V6 is powered by a robust and melodious naturally aspirated V6 engine, designated M 272.969. This 3.5-liter (3498 cm3 or 213.46 cu. in.) powerplant was upgraded for the facelift, producing 305 horsepower at 6500 rpm. This was a substantial increase over the pre-facelift 3.5-liter V6, enhancing the car’s sporting credentials. Torque figures also increased to 265.52 lb.-ft. (360 Nm) at 4900 rpm, providing strong pulling power.
The engine features a V-engine configuration with six cylinders, each with four valves operated by a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. Fuel delivery is handled by a multi-port manifold injection system. With a compression ratio of 11.7:1, the engine is optimized for power generation from premium gasoline. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a standard 6-speed manual transmission, offering an engaging driving experience. The powertrain architecture, with its front-longitudinal engine layout and rear-wheel drive, is a classic sports car configuration, providing balanced handling and traction.
Performance metrics for the SLK 350 V6 facelift are impressive for its class and era. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds) and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 155.34 mph (250 km/h). The power-to-weight ratio is 213.3 horsepower per tonne (4.7 kg/Hp), highlighting the car’s lightweight construction and potent engine. Despite its performance focus, Mercedes-Benz also prioritized efficiency, with a combined fuel economy (NEDC) of 24.2 US mpg (9.7 l/100 km) and CO2 emissions of 227 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features: Form Meets Function in the R171 Facelift
The Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171, facelift 2008) retains its roadster body type, a sleek two-door, two-seat configuration synonymous with open-air driving. The R171’s design was a departure from its predecessor, adopting sharper lines and a more aggressive stance. The 2008 facelift subtly enhanced these characteristics with redesigned front and rear bumpers, a modified grille, and darker tinted taillights, giving the car a more contemporary appearance. The “Formula 1” inspired nose was refined to integrate seamlessly with the updated fascia.
A hallmark feature of the SLK is its innovative vario-roof, a retractable hardtop that transforms the car from a coupe to a roadster in seconds. This provided the benefits of both a fixed roof (security and insulation) and open-air motoring. Inside, the facelift brought higher-quality materials, new steering wheel designs, and updated infotainment options. The cockpit remained driver-focused, with intuitive controls and comfortable, supportive seats. Safety was paramount, with features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis. The hydraulic power steering, combined with independent McPherson front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, ensured precise handling and a comfortable ride.
The SLK 350 V6 rode on a staggered wheel and tire setup, with 225/45 R 17 tires on 7.5 J x 17 rims at the front and 245/40 R 17 tires on 8.5 J x 17 rims at the rear. This enhanced both grip and aesthetics. Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels provided strong and consistent stopping power. The car’s compact dimensions – 161.69 inches (4107 mm) long, 70.39 inches (1788 mm) wide, and 51.1 inches (1298 mm) high – contributed to its nimble handling and maneuverability, aided by a tight turning circle of 34.48 feet (10.51 meters).
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK |
| Generation | SLK (R171, facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | SLK 350 V6 (305 Hp) |
| Start of Production | April, 2008 |
| End of Production | January, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Body Type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban NEDC) | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban NEDC) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined NEDC) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 Emissions (NEDC) | 227 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 155.34 mph (250 km/h, Electronically limited) |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp (213.3 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 4 kg/Nm (251.7 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 305 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 87.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 265.52 lb.-ft. (360 Nm) @ 4900 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 272.969 |
| Engine Displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 6 |
| Engine Configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression Ratio | 11.7:1 |
| Number of Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 10.2 l (10.78 US qt) |
| Curb Weight | 3152.61 lbs. (1430 kg) |
| Max. Weight | 3968.32 lbs. (1800 kg) |
| Max Load | 815.71 lbs. (370 kg) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Minimum | 7.35 cu. ft. (208 l) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.49 US gal (70 l) |
| Max. Roof Load | 110.23 lbs. (50 kg) |
| Length | 161.69 in. (4107 mm) |
| Width | 70.39 in. (1788 mm) |
| Width Including Mirrors | 78.94 in. (2005 mm) |
| Height | 51.1 in. (1298 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 95.67 in. (2430 mm) |
| Front Track | 60.08 in. (1526 mm) |
| Rear (Back) Track | 60.98 in. (1549 mm) |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 34.48 ft. (10.51 m) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Internal combustion engine drives rear wheels |
| Drive Wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of Gears and Type of Gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front Suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear Suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front Wheel Tires | 225/45 R 17 |
| Rear Wheel Tires | 245/40 R 17 |
| Front Wheel Rims | 7.5 J x 17 |
| Rear Wheel Rims | 8.5 J x 17 |
The Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171, facelift 2008) SLK 350 V6 established itself as a desirable modern classic, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and innovative features. Its legacy lies in its successful combination of open-air driving pleasure with the engineering prowess and refinement expected from Mercedes-Benz.
