Segment:
Compact Luxury Sports Roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking in-depth technical knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Key Competitors:
BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster (early models), Audi TT (later models)
Unique Selling Points:
Vario-roof retractable hardtop, compact sporty dimensions, Mercedes-Benz build quality.
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, turbocharging system (for Kompressor models)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels, tires, chassis and frame
Electrical:
Engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power seats, convertible top operation, audio system, security system, starter, alternator
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, convertible roof mechanism, body sealing, paint
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension replacement, electrical component repair
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for engine, transmission, axles, suspension components, body panels, and interior.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic scheduled maintenance to complete vehicle overhaul and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Supercharged Inline-4 (Kompressor)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2295 cc)
Horsepower:
194 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
200 lb-ft (273 Nm) @ 2500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic M5.9 ECU
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Automatic (with TouchShift)
Gear Ratios Manual Approx:
1st: 3.46, 2nd: 2.21, 3rd: 1.42, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.83, Reverse: 3.17
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
MB 236.10 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated (vehicle predates extensive NHTSA ratings)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional)
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll-over protection bars behind seats.
Audio System:
Becker audio systems (various models), optional CD changer.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC).
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control.
Headlights:
Halogen or optional Xenon headlights with automatic leveling.
Telematics:
N/A (No integrated telematics systems like Uconnect or MBUX in this generation).
Oil Change Interval Approx:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement Interval Approx:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Approx:
Every 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil meeting MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 specifications.
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, blue color) Antifreeze/Coolant
Engine Oil Capacity Approx:
5.3 quarts (5.0 liters) with filter change.
Common Problems:
Hydraulic cylinder leaks for Vario-roof, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, front SAM unit corrosion, ignition coil failures, early model serpentine belt tensioner concerns.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its engineering excellence, luxury, and safety innovations dating back to the late 19th century.
Generation:
First Generation (R170)
Introduction Year:
1996 (Europe), 1997 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
Model Years Covered By Manual:
Primarily 1998, but covers the R170 platform which includes 1997-2004 models with minor variations.
Ward Auto Ten Best Engines:
The M111 engine (in various forms) was recognized by Ward's AutoWorld as a 'Ten Best Engine' in previous years for its innovation and performance.
Design Awards:
The SLK-Class design, particularly its compact proportions and Vario-roof, was well-received and contributed to its sporty appeal.
