SLK 350 (R171) over 3.0si?

[Ponta]

Yes hello,
There has been an idea in my mind for about a month now. Would you sell your Z4 3.0si for SLK 350 post facelift?
The thing is, my friend's got one and its a really cool car, it is faster and sounds better when you push it to the max. But still my hearth says Z4 looks much better, but my mind is telling me try SLK.
It is post facelift without AMG styling.

[wdb]

I've been looking at Merc drop tops too, but as an addition to the fleet. Keep one my E86's and sell the other, use the proceeds to pick up a roadster. MB, Porsche, not another Z4 though.

[deemo319]

I wouldn't not. Have considered a Boxster but the 981.2 since the new one doesn't have the look of it predecessor.

The look in typical Porsche fashion has evolved though.

For an RHT (Retractable Hardtop) I would go with an E89 Z4 before an SLK but it's the complexity and potential issues of an RHT that are a deterrent.

It's funny how you asked that question and within the last week I realized that I have seen maybe 5-6 SLK's and all were being driven by guys.

[The HACK]

Not exactly an apples to oranges comparison, IMO. A better comparison would be to the E89 Z4 sDrive35.

Both are bloated, soul-less luxo cruisers that are designed for curb appeal rather than the sheer enjoyment of driving.

The E86 3.0Si was never "fast" but it is quick and nimble like few other BMW built after it. Despite it being down on power, it is also almost 500 lbs lighter than the SLK350 you speak of.

But to each its own.

[dc_wright]

Originally Posted by The HACK

Not exactly an apples to oranges comparison, IMO. A better comparison would be to the E89 Z4 sDrive35.

Both are bloated, soul-less luxo cruisers that are designed for curb appeal rather than the sheer enjoyment of driving.

The E86 3.0Si was never "fast" but it is quick and nimble like few other BMW built after it. Despite it being down on power, it is also almost 500 lbs lighter than the SLK350 you speak of.

But to each its own.

This.

The SLK will be a bit quicker in a drag race but out on the track the E85/86 3.0si will lap it and the E89. Both (SLK & E89) will hit a bit higher speed on the straights, but once they have to brake and/or turn all that extra weight penalty rears it's ugly head and it's all over.

[TRiCC]

In my bias opinion the 3.0si would stay in my garage

[Roadroach]

Is it even possible to get a slk350 with a stick? If it's only available with auto, that tells you where it's aimed.

[RABAUKE]

SLK is a chick car, in my humble opinion. Only available in auto like Roadroach says....target market isn't driving thrills. I have a friend with an SLK55 AMG. It's fast for sure, and clearly more of a sports car, but I still love the Z4MC better.

Again, just my two cents.

[wdb]

Autotrader is showing me 75 manual transmission SLKs for sale nationally.

[Roadroach]

Originally Posted by wdb

Autotrader is showing me 75 manual transmission SLKs for sale nationally.

SLK 250 or 350?

I've checked some that are listed as "manual". Apparently, flappy paddles on the back of the steering wheel qualifies as "manual" to some car dealers.

[Ponta]

It seems to me that I would regret this sooner or later. Thing is I HAVE NOT ENJOYED MYSELF in 3.0si enough, so why should I change it, thats my decision after all i think. Time will come...
When there is no SLK 350 around you, it is okay, but as I said, my friend's got one... I enjoy looking at his car so much.
With this AMG styling it is really a cool looking car.
But I must disagree about comaprison of SLK 350 with E89 insead of E85. You should all compare R172 with E89, not R171.
Both SLK 350 (272 HP and 305 HP) were available with manual transmission in Europe.

[Huz-Z]

if You don’t like the answers to your question I wonder why you asked folks for their opinion to begin with.

[Ponta]

Originally Posted by Huz-Z

if You don’t like the answers to your question I wonder why you asked folks for their opinion to begin with.

Can you quote where I said that I do not like any of the opinions above? You did not contribute to the discussion at any point by saying this.

[Huz-Z]

Originally Posted by Ponta

It seems to me that I would regret this sooner or later. Thing is I HAVE NOT ENJOYED MYSELF in 3.0si enough, so why should I change it, thats my decision after all i think.

How should I view that?

If you don’t plan to track the Merc and like the car better then get one. The only opinion tha that matters in the final analysis is yours as you will be the guy driving the car.

[dc_wright]

Originally Posted by Ponta

It seems to me that I would regret this sooner or later. Thing is I HAVE NOT ENJOYED MYSELF in 3.0si enough, so why should I change it, thats my decision after all i think. Time will come...
When there is no SLK 350 around you, it is okay, but as I said, my friend's got one... I enjoy looking at his car so much.
With this AMG styling it is really a cool looking car.
But I must disagree about comaprison of SLK 350 with E89 insead of E85. You should all compare R172 with E89, not R171.
Both SLK 350 (272 HP and 305 HP) were available with manual transmission in Europe.

A big part of this is what you plan to do with the car. If it's mainly weekend road trips, the E89 or the SLK will be quieter, more comfortable, and frankly probably a better choice. If you're going to do anything remotely related to competition like autocross or track days that's where the 3.0si will be superior. Even though it's lesser horse power, it's far more nimble than either of the other two cars.

[Ponta]

Originally Posted by dc_wright

A big part of this is what you plan to do with the car. If it's mainly weekend road trips, the E89 or the SLK will be quieter, more comfortable, and frankly probably a better choice. If you're going to do anything remotely related to competition like autocross or track days that's where the 3.0si will be superior. Even though it's lesser horse power, it's far more nimble than either of the other two cars.

I have got 3.0si for a year now
Did not mention, but mainly idea was to SWITCH, not WHICH one to buy, but should I switch to Merc from my BMW.

[pungo]

Ask about a BMW on BMW forum and most replies will say BMW, ask about a merc on merc forum and most will reply merc. The decision should be your own, not that from a forum with biased replies. Drive the merc and if you like it better get it, if not keep what you have.

[Huz-Z]

Originally Posted by pungo

Ask about a BMW on BMW forum and most replies will say BMW, ask about a merc on merc forum and most will reply merc. The decision should be your own, not that from a forum with biased replies. Drive the merc and if you like it better get it, if not keep what you have.

Ditto! I think for the Merc, you will find that the interior is more upscale and the ride I expect will be more forgiving than the Z4 3.0si. Other than that, you have to drive the Merc to see if you truly want to switch. Good luck with it!

[mercedesc63]

Originally Posted by Ponta

Yes hello,
There has been an idea in my mind for about a month now. Would you sell your Z4 3.0si for SLK 350 post facelift?
The thing is, my friend's got one and its a really cool car, it is faster and sounds better when you push it to the max. But still my hearth says Z4 looks much better, but my mind is telling me try SLK.
It is post facelift without AMG styling.

I have a 98' SLK230 and it was bought brand new in 1997...

It's a really great sports car so great that it was rereleased again as the Chrysler Crossfire alongside a newer gen SLK.

That being said If Z3 3.0i coupe or roadster was chosen instead I think I would be much happier today.

Ride is horrible in the Benz.

I recommend either a 996 Carrera Cab or E46 M3 Conv