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Well sorta, clearly the author did not really understand the Merc relationship, the R170 (1996-2004) was the basis for the original SLK and specifically the SLK320 (2000-2004) and SLK32 (AMG version). In mid-04 Merc came out with the R171 - different dash, longer, wider, more bling, different drivetrain, different brakes, etc.
The 2004 Crossfire was the R170 right down to the tonneau bulkhead in the coupe for the SLK's vario roof (hardtop convertible). Major difference is wider wheelwells for the 18s and 19s (255x35x19 on an SLK rear rubs the wheelwell lip at the top.
Frankly the Crossfire Coupe with manual trans is a much better track-day or autocross car than the Merc ever was.
That said, the Crossfire is not particularly rare at over 70k built and may never be really collectibe which is good because it is so much fun to drive (remember Henry Manney complaining that his Cobra was too valuable to drive (friend had a 289 when I was in my Jag period - my Devin Jag could usually pull him once moving but I had OD wired on all four gears..- but remember it breaking everything possible and often. Had dual quads and was built but the factory wire wheels just could not take the torque. He paid $1995 for it at a Ford used car lot).
Point here is that as a sucker for a good six in a small car, I love mine. However as a collectible, not yet (after all even the Triumph Stag has a following). Heck my Buick Reatta roadster (top disappears) hasn't really appreciated yet and made a lot less (2K), much easier to service, and a decade older (90-91 only).
Thanx for posting, nice write up. Even learned something new. Enjoyed the comments, especially about the passionate owners! Clean used, well cared for; they are a bargain!
Re: c-o-l-l-e-c-t-a-b-l-e !!
Re: c-o-l-l-e-c-t-a-b-l-e !!
