2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: I like it by davesbacnmailbox

Exterior styling

Love the look of it - roof on or off - sense of fun - and the heating system is effective enough so that roof off is viable for most of the year in the UK, I have the roof off at least once a month all year round.

Ride smoothness

Feels very solid

Handling

Good to drive for short trips and for long distance cruising. The handling and supension is good and the supercharged 1.8L engine gives plenty of oomph when you need it.

Front seat room

Ample leg room and headroom - up to about 6ft 5 is fine I'm 6ft3 and with the roof off I don't get too ruffled unless I go over about 85 mph Lots of other things to like (and the running costs arent too horrendous) but I'm limiting myself to my top three

Audio & nav systems

Standard fit audio system (audio 20) has no aux / USB / bluetooth, and is a bit limited in power. Your options are: 1. Sort out the connectivity and add an external Aux unit, eg taking the space usually filled by a 6-CD changer 2. Replace the head unit (and perhaps replace speakers) with an aftermarket unit 3. Add an external aux in. 4. Add an FM transmitter and fit that to your smartphone 5. Simply live with the audio 20 Option 1 is quite pricey, GBP500 or so or more Option 2 is more reasonably but you lose the standard issue look. I've gone for option 3 which is inexpensive (GBP100 or less, or could be done DIY) and unobtrusive, and it preserves the standard look. Not a big headache once I'd found out that it was possible via the internet... I've tried option 4, and it is better than option 5, but still a bit mediocre.

Front seat support & comfort

A bit of buying advice. If you like the idea of driving with the roof off in deep winter - like when there is snow on the ground - without a fleece on - buy one with the airscarf system as a factory fitted extra. I should mention that airscarf is necesary for everyone. The heating works ok so the standard model (no airscarf, no heated seats) is warm enough to drive in a shirt, ie no outer layer, down to an exterior temperature of 10 deg C / 50 deg F. add a fleece and you're ok down to freezing point. Heated seats can be added for about GBP800, but airscarf is about GBP4,000 to retro fit.

Fuel economy

Long trip, over 50 miles: 40-45mpg is achievable, 35mpg if you drive it hard. Short trip, 1-10miles: 20-32 mpg depending on distance and driving style. Air-con on: deduct 4mpg. Roof off: no noticeable impact on mpg up to 70mph. I'd guess it has some impact at 80mph+... The speedo and trip computer over-read by 5-8 pct. I have adjusted for this in the above figures.