"One of the key things I like about the srt-6 is the fact that it is a simple car without all the unnecessary MB crap. Meaning no ABC for suspension, no air ride stuff that WILL fail and cost an arm and a leg to replace.


Problem with the 2004-2010 SLK (R171) is all bling and no substance. While requiring Merc diagnostics to do anything.


Not speaking idly, had a '06 SLK350 for a while but a SLK320 and a Crossfire coupe now (coupe is more rigid and lighter than SLK).


R170 is pretty much the last the DIY people can play with.


No secret that I like a six in many ways, has enough power for the street and do not care for "compromise" cars, have real American muscle, 400 cid & Muncie when needful.


That said Chrysler has had to do many things to keep the Hemi alive, should have been retired years ago except they keep managing to sell enough for silly money. Halo cars they are called.


Problem is that it is an antiquated, 2 valve, cam in block design that has been kluged to make a lot of HP e.g. the engine requires the AC to cool the charge at max power. 100 octane gas is needed for a 4" bore and 3.5" stroke.


Personally prefer a DOHC 6 with 4 valve heads and VVT i&e like the Pentastar. As for electronics, it was available with both Merc 6-speed and automagic in the Wrangler. M276 is nearly the same engine with
the plus of direct injection but suspect a junked Wrangler is easier to find.


Also my tow car has a Pentastar and is the best one I've had, I like to standardize on drivetrains.