2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class: Road Test
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2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $39,400 -$54,900
- Invoice: $36,642 -$51,057
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Our road test for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class help you decide if a 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 8 | 7.8 |
Test manual SLK320 ran 0-60 mph in brisk 7.4 sec. The SLK230 takes about one sec more and can feel sleepy because of irritating throttle lag, though it goes well once its supercharger starts delivering. Mercedes claims the SLK32 AMG accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, and, based on our recent test, we have no reason to doubt that claim. SLK's manual transmission has balky shift action; for smooth driving, get the automatic.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.6 |
Test SLK230 with automatic transmission averaged 24.2 mpg. Test SLK320 averaged 23.9 with manual, 21.9 with automatic. Test SLK32 AMG averaged 24.5. All models require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 2 | 4 |
Thumpy over expansion joints and broken pavement, but the standard suspension smothers big ruts and bumps quite nicely. Optional Sport Package's lower-profile tires do not absorb bumps well; we don't recommend it. SLK32 AMG ride is stiffer. Moderate top-down body shake apparent even on smooth surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 9 | 8.3 |
Entertains with precise steering, grippy cornering, adroit overall balance. Sport Package provides a small gain in handling most owners will seldom discover. AMG model handles as if on rails and has precise steering. Braking powerful, undramatic, consistent.
QUIETNESS
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.6 |
Wind noise modest with top and windows up, but much road rumble except on glassy asphalt, a penalty of aggressive tires. Base V6 noticeably smoother and quieter than supercharged 4 cyl, which sounds and feels coarse when rushed. Supercharged V6 in the SLK32 AMG produces a noticeable growl at all times.
CONTROLS
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.3 |
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 solid, classy.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
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. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 | .6 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 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. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 8 | 5 | 4.2 |
The SLK320 is the best value for refined performance. But any SLK provides open-air fun and hardtop security in a well-built runabout with Mercedes prestige and blue-chip resale values. AMG model appeals primarily to the hard-core enthusiast.
Total Score
| SLK230, auto. | SLK320, man. | SLK32 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 46 | 50 | 47 | 45.6 |
Total Score: 48
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