MERCEDES-BENZ, The SLK models: The R170

Mercedes SLK R170: The Compact Roadster that Became a Classic
The SLK R170 marked Daimler-Benz's entry into the compact, more affordable roadster market. Over two decades after its introduction, well-maintained examples of this car have become collectibles. Last updated in March 2025, this 200-page book provides in-depth information on the car's history and covers every engine option available. It also discusses the AMG version and explores other tuning options, including Brabus and RENNtech. The guide also explains VIN/FIN and data card decoding, and for those interested in purchasing one of these roadsters, it offers an updated 35-page buyer's guide to help identify potential trouble spots. A German version of this book is also available here on Amazon.

• Development of the R170: An overview of the R170's creation and its place in Mercedes-Benz's lineup as a compact roadster.
• Troubleshooting the Vario Roof: A dedicated section on how to diagnose and fix common issues with the R170's Vario Roof, a key feature of the car.
• The Four- and Six-Cylinder Engines: A detailed look at the engine options, from the four-cylinder variants to the more powerful six-cylinder models.
• Excerpts from the SLK Brochure: Interesting historical insights from the original SLK brochures, showcasing the car's features and design.
• First Upgrades: A discussion of the initial upgrades made to the model after its release.
• The 2000 Facelift: A look at the 2000 facelift, which brought notable improvements and design tweaks to the R170.
• The SLK32 AMG: In-depth coverage of the SLK32 AMG, a high-performance version of the R170 that raised the stakes for roadster enthusiasts.
• The Special Editions: A review of the special editions of the R170, which offered unique styling and features.
• The Brabus 6.5L V8 SLK: A closer look at the tuning work done by Brabus to enhance the performance and aesthetics of the SLK R170.
• R170 Buyer's Guide: An updated 35-page buyer's guide, helping potential buyers navigate the process of purchasing an R170 and avoid common pitfalls.
• The VIN/FIN and Data Card Explained: Detailed explanations of how to interpret the VIN/FIN and data card for identifying key specifications and production details.
• R170 Model Codes: A breakdown of the various model codes used for different R170 configurations and specifications.
• Technical Specifications: Full technical specifications, including power and torque curves, allowing you to understand the performance of each engine variant.