2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class: Road Test
Archived Review
2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $38,900 -$43,900
- Invoice: $36,177 -$40,827
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class help you decide if a 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 7.7 |
Test manual SLK320 ran 0-60 mph in brisk 7.4 sec. The SLK230 takes 8.4 and can feel sleepy because of irritating throttle lag, though it goes well once its supercharger starts delivering. SLK's manual transmission has balky shift action; for smooth driving, get the automatic. We have not yet tested an SLK32.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.7 |
Test automatic SLK230 averaged 24.2 mpg, manual SLK320 returned 23.9. Both require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.5 |
Thumpy over expansion joints and broken pavement, but the standard suspension smothers big ruts and bumps quite well. Optional Sport Package's lower-profile tires do not absorb bumps well; we don't recommend it. Moderate top-down body shake apparent even on smooth surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.8 |
Entertains with precise steering, grippy cornering, adroit overall balance. Sport Package provides a small gain in handling most owners will seldom discover. Braking powerful, undramatic, consistent.
QUIETNESS
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
Wind noise modest with top and windows up, but much road rumble except on glassy asphalt, a penalty of aggressive tires. V6 noticeably smoother and quieter than supercharged 4-cyl, which sounds and feels coarse when pushed.
CONTROLS
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.2 |
Gauges retro stylish but very readable. Most controls convenient. Door windows stick up an annoying half-inch when fully lowered. Top operation is a one-button breeze, takes only 25 sec. Cabin materials classy and generally solid, though one test SLK320 had a rattle in the driver's door.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 |
Snug but comfortable for most folks. Low-slung design hampers entry/exit, though, as well as visibility for shorter drivers even top-down.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.1 |
Only enough for a briefcase or two with top down. Raising roof opens up sufficient soft-baggage space for a long weekend, though the compartment is oddly shaped.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 4 |
SLK320 is the choice for refinement and performance. But either SLK provides soft-top fun and hard-top security in a well-built runabout with Mercedes prestige and blue-chip resale values.
Total Score
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 46 | 48 | 44.3 |
Total Score: 47
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
