MERCEDES-BENZ, The SLK models

Mercedes-Benz SLK / SLC R172 – History, Specs & Buyer’s Guide
The Mercedes SLK / SLC R172 combined elegant design, advanced technology, and pure driving fun. Inspired by the larger SL and the SLS AMG, it introduced innovations like Magic Sky Control, AirScarf, and an upgraded interior. Produced from 2011 to 2020, the R172 has already become a modern classic.
This updated 210-page guide (revised February 2024) covers the full model range, from the entry-level SLC180 to the powerful SLK55 AMG. With over 170 recent color photos and a detailed buyer’s guide, it is the most complete English-language book on the R172. Key topics covered in this book:

Development and history of the R172 and SLC facelift
Buyer’s Guide: 30+ pages on engines, gearboxes, rust spots, and common issues
Troubleshooting the Vario Roof – problems and fixes explained
Engines: four-cylinders, V6, diesel 250 CDI, and the AMG V8
Option packages and equipment codes (incl. full list in English)
COMAND infotainment system – features and updates
Special editions: Edition 1, RedArt, Final Edition and more
Tuners: Brabus, Carlsson, RENNtech and others
VIN & Data Card explained – how to verify originality and options
Technical data, power and torque curves, production numbers

Whether you already own an SLK / SLC R172 or are considering buying one, this book gives you everything you need: history, specifications, detailed buying advice, and unique insights into Mercedes’ last compact roadster.

Author Biography

With over 25 books and e-books written about Mercedes-Benz cars, Bernd S. Koehling has proven to be an authority on the brand. Those books cover cars from the 1936 170V to the 2012 SL R231. Bernd has been involved in the Mercedes scene since the early 1970s, when he restored his first 170 Cabrio B. Since then he has not only owned many classic Mercedes including a 220S, 300d Adenauer, 200D, 250SE, 280SE coupe 3.5, 300SEL, 350SL, 280E, 450SE, SLK230, he has also gained a wealth of knowledge and experience, which he shares with his readers in his books. Bernd has always considered Mercedes one of his favorite car manufacturers and has driven almost all Mercedes models built since the 1950s. His other weakness revolves around British cars, here especially Jaguar and Alvis.