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).
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | SLC |
| Generation | R172 |
| Trim | SLC 250 d |
| Years | 2016–2020 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 2.1-litre twin-turbocharged inline-4 diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,143 cc (2.1 litres) |
| Induction | Twin-turbocharged |
| Power | 204 bhp (152 kW) at 3,800 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.4 s |
| Top speed | 152 mph (245 km/h) |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,605 kg (3,538 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 127 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.




