2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Review
2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Review
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Used SLK-Class for sale
Appraise This CarMercedes-Benz SLK-Class model years
Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class types
- Convertible
- SLK32 AMG
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Retractable hardtop, confident handling, blistering performance (SLK32 AMG), quiet and composed freeway cruiser.
Cons
- Steering lacks feedback, big blind spots when top is up, no manual gearbox for the top performance model.
What’s new
No major changes.
Edmunds says
A fun-to-drive roadster that combines the safety and security of a hardtop, the wind-in-your-hair fun of a convertible and the European brand cache of a Mercedes all in one attractively styled package.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class SLK230 Kompressor 2dr Convertible (2.3L 4cyl S/C 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$252/mo for SLK-Class SLK230
SLK-Class SLK230
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
With no less than five contenders vying for attention, the compact luxury roadster segment continues to flourish. Although the standard SLK enters 2002 relatively unchanged from last year, an all-new AMG model serves up serious doses of fun for those who crave more than just a little wind in their hair.The SLK's big selling point is its exclusive retractable steel roof that, when raised, makes the car seem as airtight as a Benz sedan. In less than 30 seconds, you can convert the SLK from a closed coupe to a cool convertible without leaving the driver's seat. The original SLK was available only with an automatic transmission and a supercharged, 185-horsepower, 2.3-liter I4 that had an anemic exhaust note. In 1999, Mercedes equipped the car with a five-speed manual transmission as standard equipment, making the automatic optional. Combined with the SLK's precise steering, rev-happy powerplant, and wonderfully damped suspension, the car was entertaining, though not particularly exhilarating. The standard four-cylinder engine (SLK230) now makes 192 horsepower, but for those who prefer the smooth torquey feel of a V6, the SLK 320 offers a 3.2-liter, 215 horsepower six-cylinder. A six-speed manual is standard on both models, with a five-speed TouchShift automanual optional. The 0-60 mph sprinting ability of either model is respectable, with the 230 running that dash in around 7.5 seconds and the 320 beating that time by around a second. SLK 230s count leather seating, aluminum accents and 16-inch alloy wheels among its standard features. An optional Sport package for the SLK230 doesn't cure the lame exhaust blat, but it does include an AMG-inspired body kit and meaty 17-inch treads mounted to AMG Monoblock wheels. Step up to the 320 and you'll get 17-inch, five-spoke wheels, a unique air dam, metal plate doorsills, power seats, a telescoping steering column and wood interior accents.
This year, the SLK family grows again, as the speedy SLK32 AMG joins the clan. Packing a whopping 349 horsepower, the AMG SLK can run with exotics in terms of gut-wrenching acceleration, as a sub-five second 0-to-60 mph blast attests. Enthusiasts may lament the lack of a manual gearbox, though the TouchShift five-speed automanual does allow manual-style shifting, albeit without a clutch. Handsome, double-spoke 17-inch wheels are a welcome departure from the "Monoblock" style that's been around forever. Other goodies for the top SLK include a massaged suspension, full ground effects, rear spoiler, 8-way power sport seats, a Bose sound system (though without CD player or changer) and aluminum and wood cockpit accents.
Costly Designo editions with special paint and leather trim are also available on all SLKs. All models get front and side airbags as standard equipment, along with ABS, stability control (called ESP) and the Tele Aid system (which alerts emergency personnel if an airbag goes off and can also put you in touch with a live operator to summon medical or police assistance).
The SLK also has extremely rigid A-pillars, integrated roll bars behind each seat and emergency tensioning seatbelt retractors for enhanced rollover protection. Brake Assist applies full braking force faster than is humanly possible when a panic stop is initiated. A "BabySmart" system allows owners to use a special car seat sold by Benz dealers that deactivates the passenger airbag. But we're curious as to why ultra-safety conscious Mercedes doesn't have a cut-off switch for the passenger bag (like Mazda and other carmakers do for their 2-seaters)...perhaps to foster the sale of those Benz baby seats?
All in all, the SLK is still a desirable drop-top for anyone looking for the fun of a convertible combined with the safety and all-weather security of a hardtop. The addition of the ultra-fast AMG model might give pause to those previously considering Porsche's Boxster S, but of course, true enthusiasts will be turned off by the SLK 32's lack of a manual gearbox. Then again, the SLK is not as much about those enthusiastic about driving as it is about those enthusiastic about driving a Mercedes.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class.
5 star(77%)
4 star(15%)
3 star(8%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
40 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.13 out of 5 stars
2002 Mercedes SLK 320
BClark, 08/02/2004
2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class SLK320 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Beautiful vehicle with luxurious interior and
nimble, quick ride. Great open air
convertible that feels like a solid sedan
when the retractable hard top is up.
4.63 out of 5 stars
MB SLK great Car
Bobby, 08/18/2005
2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class SLK230 Kompressor 2dr Convertible (2.3L 4cyl S/C 6M)
I owned a Mazda Miata prior to this Mercedes and worried about the reliability of this vehicle. However, the car has been great and I now have almost 50,000 miles on it and it is a pleasure to drive and fun when top is down on a nice day. I love the fact that the roof is solid and that I don't have to worry about the snow causing any damage to the interior. The car is also great in … snow with the snow tires that I purchased only a few months after I fist got the car. All in all, I would say that I love this car and that it has served me quite well.
5 out of 5 stars
Great car if your not too tall
Ed, 12/14/2018
2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class SLK320 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
I always loved the SLK but I’m 6’4 and room and comfort is only wishful thinking if you are tall and have a SLK. However, it is a ball to drive and performance is outstanding. I will continue to drive my SLK because of the pure exhilarating experience of the ride.
3.88 out of 5 stars
SLK32 AMG
darren, 09/28/2006
2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class SLK32 AMG 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl S/C 5A)
I love this car. It's addictive to drive, and the power is awesome. Concerns about acceleration are never an issue. The interior looks a little old, and not all that expensive. The CD changer (which is an option) skips if you hit a pothole and the ride translates uneven road surfaces. But this is a sports car, so you should expect that. The car feels well built and drives … wonderfully. The only thing I dont like about the cars driving dynamics would be the steering. It's a bit clunky, and isn't as precise as it should be. The steering wheel is also a little big, and doesnt tilt. It's a great car, if you want something that can take on a Corvette, and that is understated.
2002 SLK-Class Highlights
Convertible
SLK230
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $39,400 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $252/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 9.5 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the SLK-Class include:
- Alarm
- Stability Control
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintMarginal
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