Here’s Bruce’s question – leave a comment if you have an answer for him:

I want to get more sweet V8 sound from my 2009 SLK55. I don’t care about the stereo. I want the exhaust to sound way better than it does. What is the best, least expensive way to do that? Is there a solenoid that closes down the sound, soon after a cold start. Because the cold start sound is great. It just doesn’t last long enough. Is there a “flapper mod” that would give the car more sound, or something else? What about an X-pipe to replace the resonator? Thanks for your help. My dealer has no suggestions…

Thanks, Bruce

“With the launch of the SLK in 1996, Mercedes-Benz successfully established the premium segment for compact roadsters. Thanks to innovative technology such as the vario-roof and the neck-level heating system AIRSCARF, the SLK has long been recognized as a cult car of modern times,” expains Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, responsible for Sales and Marketing. “The new-generation SLK models, which we are delivering to customers since April 2008, are sportier than ever. I’m confident that the dynamic looks and performance of the new SLK will again set pulses racing among sports cars enthusiasts around the world.”

In Western Europe, by far the most important sales market for the SLK, the two-seater was once again the market leader for its segment in 2007. The compact roadster enjoys the greatest popularity in Germany, with over one-third of all SLK drivers coming from the home market of the brand with the star. The rest of Western Europe accounts for a further one-third of sales. Moreover, one in every five SLK customers comes from the U.S. The most popular model among customers is the SLK 200, which is selected by half of all SLK owners worldwide and by more than two-thirds in Germany. Also in strong demand is the SLK 280, which is driven by over one-quarter of all SLK owners.

The new-generation SLK, which celebrated its world premiere at the Detroit Motor Show in January, inspires imagination especially with its sportier looks and the promise of an even more emotional driving experience. The most important changes in the vehicle’s appearance include redesigned front and back views, as well as a carefully modified interior, featuring a new combination instrument panel and a three-spoke steering wheel. Three enhanced engines underscore the two-seater’s dynamic character. Engineers have devoted particular attention to the V6 sports engine. Despite a considerable increase in power in some instances, all the engines use significantly less fuel. For example, the SLK 350 with manual transmission consumes 1.1 liters per 100 kilometers less than its predecessor, despite an added 33 horsepower, for a new total of 305 horsepower.

If desired, the SLK is also available with the newly developed direct-steer system and new-generation audio and telematics features. Like its predecessor, the latest SLK is manufactured in the Mercedes-Benz Bremen plant, the brand’s center of excellence for its open-top vehicles.

Below we focus our discussion on the SLK AMG and provide excerpts of the SL Market Letter article (published in quotes below with John Olson’s permission).

2002 SLK32 AMG

Introduced during 2001, the 2002 SLK32 AMG was the first SLK to wear the “AMG” badge. Originally priced at $55k, it features a supercharged and inter-cooled V6 engine that produces 332 lb-ft of torque.

2002: Enter the SLK32 AMG with a whopping 349 HP (0-60 in 4.8 seconds). Three engine choices: 1) 192 HP four valve, supercharged 4 cylinder, 2) 215 HP V6 and 3) the AMG V6. The SLK32 AMG’s engine has twin spark plugs per cylinder for maximum combustion. A newly engineered five-gear “SpeedShift” boasts 35% quicker automatic shifts. The SLK32 AMG uses lower (numeric) transmission gears and a 3.07:1 rear axle for an electronically limited top-speed of 155 mph….

The AMG supecharger is the Lysholm-type (screw type), which provides boost virtually from idle speed. The AMG variant has reinforced suspension and newly designed wheels for better brake cooling. Brakes became 13.15″ diameter vs. 11.8″ standard. Revised air dams/spoilers minimize and balance aerodynamic lift front-to-rear and top speed. A small lip spoiler at the trailing edge of the trunk lid reduces rear airlift by more than 50%. AMG interiors introduce more bolstered seats, unique two-tone leather and dark birds-eye maple wood. AMG instruments are finished in silver. The warranty included free adjustments and regularly scheduled maintenance for the full four years or 50,000 miles. [warranty ended in 2006].

The anti-lock brakes include Mercedes’ Electronic Brake Assist, traction control, and Electronic Stability Program (ESP). Drivers can switch the ESP off to more thoroughly enjoy track events and autocross competitions.

Note: The SL Market Letter has re-published the SLK article on their website as an example article from the SL Market Letter (newsletter). You can subscribe to the SL Market Letter here.
*Excerpts of the article are published here with the publisher’s permission.