Mercedes-Benz SLK R170
The car that redefined the modern roadster with its revolutionary Vario-Roof.
- Power
- 193 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.9 s
- Top speed
- 141 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$15k
About the Mercedes-Benz SLK R170
The R170-generation SLK arrived in 1996 as a bold entry into the compact roadster market, famously introducing the 'Vario-Roof' folding metal hardtop. This innovation allowed the car to transform from a quiet, weather-tight coupé to an open-top roadster in just 25 seconds. The 230 Kompressor trim features a supercharged 2.3-litre engine that provides punchy, low-end torque, though it was often criticised for a lack of refinement compared to its six-cylinder rivals. Built on a shortened C-Class platform, it prioritises cruising comfort and safety over raw sports car agility, making it a highly usable daily classic today.
Mercedes-Benz SLK R170 specs
The Mercedes-Benz SLK R170 produces 193 bhp (144 kW) and 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and has a top speed of 141 mph (227 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | SLK |
| Generation | R170 |
| Trim | SLK 230 Kompressor |
| Years | 1996–2004 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $40,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.3-litre supercharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,295 cc (2.3 litres) |
| Induction | Supercharged |
| Power | 193 bhp (144 kW) at 5,300 rpm |
| Torque | 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.9 s |
| Top speed | 141 mph (227 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,325 kg (2,921 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 146 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-Benz SLK R170 worth?
A typical Mercedes-Benz SLK R170 is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $15,000 (about £3,700 – £11,000).
Its original price when new was about $40,000.
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-Benz SLK R170 rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-Benz SLK R170 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 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 SLK R170 fun facts
- The name SLK stands for Sportlich, Leicht und Kurz, which translates from German as Sporty, Light and Short.
- The R170 SLK shared many internal components with the Chrysler Crossfire, which was developed during the DaimlerChrysler era.
- Upon its launch, the SLK was so popular that waiting lists in some markets extended to two years.
