Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171
The pocket rocket that brought a hand-built V8 to the compact roadster segment.
- Power
- 355 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 4.3 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $12k–$35k
About the Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171
The R171-generation SLK 55 AMG is a landmark in the compact roadster segment, famously shoehorning a large 5.4-litre M113 V8 into a chassis typically reserved for four and six-cylinder engines. Its design, led by Steve Mattin, drew heavy inspiration from the McLaren-Mercedes SLR and Formula 1 cars of the era, particularly in its 'nose' styling. While it lacks the surgical precision of a contemporary Porsche Boxster, it offers a unique 'hot rod' character with a thunderous exhaust note and effortless torque. As the only car in its class to offer a V8, it remains a highly sought-after modern classic for those valuing character and straight-line performance.
Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171 specs
The Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171 produces 355 bhp (265 kW) and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 4.3 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-AMG |
|---|---|
| Model | SLK 55 |
| Generation | R171 |
| Trim | 5.5 V8 |
| Years | 2004–2010 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 9,500 built |
| Original price | About $62,000 when new |
| Engine | 5.4-litre naturally aspirated V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,439 cc (5.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 355 bhp (265 kW) at 5,750 rpm |
| Torque | 510 Nm (376 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,550 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 4.3 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,540 kg (3,395 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 231 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171 worth?
A typical Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171 is estimated to be worth $12,000 – $35,000 (about £9,100 – £26,000).
Its original price when new was about $62,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171 rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mercedes-AMG SLK 55 R171 fun facts
- The SLK 55 AMG served as the official Formula 1 Safety Car during the 2004 and 2005 seasons.
- It was the first Mercedes-AMG model to feature the 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission.
- The R171 introduced the 'Airscarf' system, which blows warm air from the headrests to allow top-down driving in cold weather.
