The Car Geek: The special edition Mercedes SLK 55 AMG

The Car Geek

Monday, June 12, 2006

The special edition Mercedes SLK 55 AMG

It is already confirmed that Mercedes Benz will be releasing the special edition SLK 55 AMG which is based on the SLK Ultimate Experience Asia.

What's special with the new SLK 55?

Well, one of the features integrated in this exciting vehicle is its AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine enhanced to 294 kW/ 400 hp and 520 Newton meters of torque. It is coupled with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC with manual drive program and AMG aluminum shift paddles on the steering wheel which makes the car faster than the previous SLK 55.

Another notable feature of the new SLK is its roof. The retractable roof of the previous SLK was changed with a fixed one and it is made of unpainted carbon fibre. This, plus the use of lightweight reinforced plastics and carbon fibre for the interior relatively decreases the car's weight.

To ensure that racing enthusiasts had their pulses racing for the new SLK 500, Mercedes engineers also upgraded the suspension system and recalibrated the steering for improved response, grip and durability. They also used a 19-inch forged aluminum alloy wheels which weigh almost a third less than that of the wheels used to a standard car. The AMG high-performance brake system ensures a perfect deceleration while a brace in the engine compartment provides for a more lateral dynamics and additional rigidity.

What's more striking about the new SLK is that amidst all the additional coolers, increased power and the larger brakes, it is still significantly lighter that the previous SLK model.

There are still no definite plans as to the new SLK invading the US market. The German car buyers however will have the privilege to own first the new SLK as it scheduled to be offered there this coming July. But many would sure be lining up in the dealerships soon as it also hits the North American market.

While I am still waiting for the new offering from Mercedes Benz to be available in the US, I might as well get some Mercedes Benz accessories from Auto Parts Inner to prep my car for the next drive around town.