Originally Posted by Bladecutter

I actually test drove both the SLK300 and the SLK350 a month or so ago.
Both drove quite nice, and they handled a bit better than the Crossfire, but still gave that solid, well planted to the ground feeling that the Crossfire gives.

The interiors on both cars are such a step up over the Crossfire, its easy to see where the extra money went. Also, the new steering gearbox they are using feels more natural to those of us whom have gotten used to driving cars that have rack and pinion steering. Just a more linear, steady feel, with better weighting of the steering wheel.

Both cars I drove had the automatic transmissions, but only the SLK offers a manual gearbox (shame on MB). Both engines offered lots of pep, and were silky smooth, just like the Crossfire's engine. I would most likely choose the SLK300 with a manual over the SLK350 with an automatic, just simply because I prefer manuals.

The only complaint I had about the SLK300 was the stock brakes. Even though the components are pretty much the same as what is on the Crossfire, they just did not perform as well as the Crossfire's, in my opinion. Major disappointment, in my opinion.

The only problem with the SLK's is that the Porsche Boxster exists.
Every time I test drive one, all I can think about afterwards is what all can I sell to buy one. It will be my next car, that has been decided.

But the SLK's are nice cars, drive fantastic, and have great engines in them.
That's why the Crossfire's have been fantastic cars, too.

BC.