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Mercedes-Benz - SLK (1997)
Looking for the perfect blend of luxury and performance? The Mercedes‑Benz SLK delivers just that, especially the classic 1997 Mercedes‑Benz SLK. From its sleek, retractable hardtop to its well‑tuned chassis, this model has earned a dedicated following among collectors and daily drivers alike. Curious about the Mercedes‑Benz SLK price today? Let’s break down everything you need to know—from spec sheets to the market’s depreciation curve—to help you gauge what a 1997 Mercedes‑Benz SLK is worth in 2024.
Below you’ll find a comprehensive overview of the key specs and a detailed look at how the SLK’s value evolves over time. Whether you’re a first‑time buyer, an enthusiast hunting for a specific year, or a broker advising clients, this guide is designed to fit neatly into searchers’ intent and thrive in featured snippets.
- Engine – 2.3L or 2.5L inline‑4 (depending on trim)
- Horsepower – 183‑238 hp
- Torque – 170‑207 lb‑ft
- Transmission – 5‑speed manual (classic) or 4‑speed automatic (later models)
- Fuel Type – Premium gasoline
- Drive Layout – Front‑wheel drive
- Body Style – 2‑door coupe with retractable hardtop
- Dimensions (mm)
- Length – 4,236
- Width – 1,766
- Height – 1,194
- Wheelbase – 2,581
- Seating Capacity – 2
- Braking System – Dual‑disc brakes front, single‑disc rear
- Weight – 1,386 kg (approx.)
- Insurance Class – Category 3 (medium‑risk for luxury sports cars)
- Warranty – 5‑year / 60,000 miles standard (after‑market options available)
Depreciation Insights
The SLK’s depreciation curve is a key factor for anyone reviewing the used Mercedes‑Benz SLK price. In its first year, the car typically loses 15 %–20 % of its value—common for luxury models that experience rapid adoption of newer technology. Over the next four years, depreciation slows but remains significant due to the sport‑car niche, averaging around 8 % per year. By year 5–6, most 1997 SLK units have depreciated roughly 30 %–40 % from their original price. For comparison, the average depreciation for luxury coupes in the same era sits close to 35 % by the sixth year, confirming the SLK’s resilience within this segment.
So, what a 1997 Mercedes‑Benz SLK is worth today? While we avoid making claims about specific figures, the general market trend indicates a price range that reflects the car’s condition, mileage, and location. High‑mileage, under‑maintained examples tend to fetch lower values; rare, low‑mileage models remain in the more prized brackets. Always check local listings or a reputable valuation tool for an estimate tailored to your vehicle’s unique history.
Comparison Context
When you’re reviewing a price for a Mercedes‑Benz SLK 1997 price, it helps to benchmark against similar period sports coupes:
- BMW Z4 E34 (1999‑2002) – 2.5‑3.2L engine, front‑wheel drive, similar 183‑250 hp.
- Audi TT (3L, 1998‑2002) – 0‑62 mph around 4.6–5.0 seconds, S line trims echo the SLK’s styling cues.
- Mini Cooper S (1999‑2003) – 1.6‑2.0L, lightweight (~1,000 kg), offering a more extreme spirited feel.
Compared to these competitors, the SLK keeps a distinctive top‑down experience thanks to its fixed hardtop, while still offering the refined dynamics typical of Mercedes’ engineering. Even though competition prices can vary, the SLK typically appears mid‑to‑high in the used sports‑coupé market, reflecting its brand prestige.
Market Position Statement
The Mercedes‑Benz SLK has carved out a niche as a “classic luxury roadster” in the premium sport‑coupe segment.
Last 20 car trackeds
| Last tracked date | Status | Price | Price rank | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 years ago | used | £4,995.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £5,499.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £2,990.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £5,499.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £5,499.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £3,990.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £2,995.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £2,490.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,950.00 | Unlock all links |