2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK 200 Kompressor 6MT RWD (163 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In January 2000, Europe switched to the Euro 3 emission standards, and Mercedes-Benz needed to upgrade its coupe-cabriolet roadster, the SLK.

Four years after revolutionizing the premium roadster segment with its pocket-sized SLK, the German automaker introduced a facelifted version for it. While it kept the original features that made the car very appealing to its customers, it also added a few modifications that made it not only faster but also safer and friendlier with the environment.

At the front, the automaker installed a redesigned bumper with different fog lamps mounted on the lower side of the apron. Unlike the 1996 SLK, the 2000 version featured round fog lamps instead of triangular ones. Also, the air dam received a small lip spoiler. Depending on the trim level, the coupe-cabriolet came with chromed slats on the main grille.

Since the car proved to be fast while hard cornering, the automaker offered new seats with higher bolstered areas. In addition, the steering wheel was thicker and featured a new design. But still, the handbrake remained hosted on the center console, unlike most other Mercedes-Benz cars that had a pedal for the parking brake.

Under the hood, the former SLK 200 Kompressor lost about 30 ponies, while the 230 K version gained four. Thus, there was a bigger power difference between these two versions. In addition, the automaker added a 3.2-liter V6 under the hood, which was also available with AMG treatment. On the safety side, Mercedes-Benz installed an upgraded ESP on the entire range.