Skip to content
CarSpot
CommonSports car · 2016–2020 · Germany

Mercedes-Benz SLC R172

The refined diesel roadster that prioritised long-distance cruising over raw pace.

Power
204 bhp
0–60 mph
6.4 s
Top speed
152 mph

About the Mercedes-Benz SLC R172

The Mercedes-Benz SLC 250 d arrived in 2016 as part of the R172-generation facelift, which saw the long-running SLK nameplate retired in favour of the SLC badge. It remained a unique proposition in the compact roadster segment, offering a high-torque diesel engine that delivered exceptional fuel economy without sacrificing the open-top experience. While it lacked the sharp handling of a Porsche 718 Boxster, its folding metal 'Vario-roof' and refined 9G-Tronic transmission made it an ideal all-season grand tourer. The 250 d was eventually discontinued in 2017 in some markets, though production of the SLC range continued until 2020.

Mercedes-Benz SLC R172 specs

The Mercedes-Benz SLC R172 produces 204 bhp (152 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and has a top speed of 152 mph (245 km/h).

Overview
MakeMercedes-Benz
ModelSLC
GenerationR172
TrimSLC 250 d
Years2016–2020
TypeSports car
Body styleRoadster
CountryGermany
Performance
Engine2.1-litre twin-turbocharged inline-4 diesel
Displacement2,143 cc (2.1 litres)
InductionTwin-turbocharged
Power204 bhp (152 kW) at 3,800 rpm
Torque500 Nm (369 lb-ft)
Redline5,000 rpm
0–60 mph6.4 s
Top speed152 mph (245 km/h)
Transmission9-speed automatic
DrivetrainRear-wheel drive
Weight1,605 kg (3,538 lb)
Power-to-weight127 bhp per tonne

Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from

Mercedes-Benz SLC R172 rarity in CarSpot

The Mercedes-Benz SLC R172 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 11 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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-Benz SLC R172 fun facts

  • The SLC 250 d was the only diesel-powered roadster in its class, offering a theoretical range of over 800 miles on a single tank.
  • The R172 facelift introduced the 'Magic Sky Control' panoramic roof, which could change from transparent to dark at the touch of a button.
  • Despite being a diesel, the 250 d produced more torque (500 Nm) than the contemporary petrol-powered SLC 300.

More Mercedes-Benz cars

All 129 Mercedes-Benz models

Cars like the Mercedes-Benz SLC R172

Browse all sports car cars

CarSpot · Free car-spotting app

Collect the Mercedes-Benz SLC R172 and thousands more

  • Snap a car to identify its make, model and year
  • Collect cards across six tiers, from Common to Unicorn
  • See specs, 0–60 times and estimated values
  • Build your garage, earn badges and map your spots