Top 5 Reasons I Love My SLK350 : Between The Wheels - Episode 10

Автокөліктер мен көлік құралдары

The top 5 reasons I plan to keep my Mercedes Benz SLK 350.
Episode 10 of a series exploring the decisions made by a car nut as he attempts to decide which cars will fit his needs on the road and the track.
Exploring my ongoing track driving education journey, I've taken my 2005 Mercedes SLK350 to the track a couple of times and found it to be very capable. After a few months of ownership, I'm falling for the car and realizing it's got everything I wanted in a fun, performance, track oriented car. And, it's a great sunny day cruiser as well.
I'll explore my top five reasons for keeping my SLK350, including:
1) The naturally aspirated engine and smooth power output
2) A great 6 speed manual gearbox
3) Styling that is classic, sporty and unique
4) Good build quality, condition and dependability
5) The versatility of a hardtop convertible for on and off the track
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All material copyright 2017, Oblivious Flight Pictures, unless otherwise noted.

Пікірлер: 172

  • @410kane
    @410kane5 жыл бұрын

    I was hoping no one else would catch on to these cars😂 I've had mine for years and won't get rid of it. You just have to make sure you keep the drain clear near the battery tray or it will fill with water and damage electronics

  • @jacopovalentino
    @jacopovalentino2 жыл бұрын

    Very well spoken. I own a silver 2005 manual box as a daily driver. What a joy to drive. Agree: dual personality, and both well performed.

  • @paulward4268
    @paulward42683 жыл бұрын

    Bought mine here in the UK 2 years ago. Only.a 2009 200 Kompressor, but it's been well.looked after. Drives beautifully and is comfortable. The garage I use for servicing says I'll. Never need another car if I look after it. :) :)

  • @curtisfieldsjr4211
    @curtisfieldsjr42113 жыл бұрын

    I’ve been driving a 06 SLK280 since 2014. Reliable and still gets comments, “nice car.”

  • @crosisofborg5524
    @crosisofborg55244 жыл бұрын

    I had an r171 slk280. Awesome ride and top quality craftsmanship. The aftermatket was big when the r171 was still being made.

  • @migit6foot4
    @migit6foot46 ай бұрын

    I just bought 1 three months ago. 2005 Mercedes Benz slk350...silver. I love driving it. And yes I get compliments everytime I drive it in 2024. Awesome car

  • @Max-Bliss
    @Max-Bliss5 жыл бұрын

    So well made, nice one - your work ... oh and the car.

  • @JRGarage
    @JRGarage2 жыл бұрын

    Great video!

  • @maverick7200
    @maverick72006 жыл бұрын

    I too just recently (1.3 Year ago) purchased a 2006 SLK350 MT. So far so good, just some work that needs to be done from neglect from the previous owners. I too am going to keep this car for a while! Good video, subscribed and hope to see more!

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Thanks very much Maverick! I'm quickly coming to the belief that the SLK may be an under-appreciated gem so congrats on your purchase!

  • @1satisfiedmind
    @1satisfiedmind3 жыл бұрын

    I smile every time I get into my '90 300zx, which I've enjoyed for 13 years now...but, like you, I have a wandering eye...which led me here.

  • @philbiker3
    @philbiker33 жыл бұрын

    Very cool. I just picked up a used 2014 6-speed SLK250 and I agree that the manual transmission feels just right. (despite some automotive journalists not liking it much)

  • @majornerd
    @majornerd6 жыл бұрын

    This is the first of your videos that I have watched, I am researching the SLK350 as a fun car to replace my MINI and Miata. So a journey that seems similar to yours. I subscribed. I wanted to say, I subscribed mainly because of your speaking ability. You are one of the best speakers on KZread. The pacing and tone you use is top notch and I look forward to seeing the rest of your videos.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Thanks very much for the compliment, Howard. And thank you for subscribing! Good luck in your car search - that’s tough competition to beat a MINI or Miata in terms of the enjoyment factor, but it will be fun trying!

  • @LeftyS7

    @LeftyS7

    5 жыл бұрын

    Having owned both a MINI and Miatas and, now, a 2010 SLK350, I have to say that both the Miata and MIN were much more fun to drive, more responsive. I autocrossed the Miatas and the MINI (not so good the MINI) and tracked the Miatas. But I'm now 75 and for a daily driver the SLK350 is fine for me. Also depends on how well you fit the car. The MINI had amazing room, I had friends who were college linemen fit comfortably, but the SLK electric seats are almost infinitely adjustable.

  • @thecellm8tube
    @thecellm8tube5 жыл бұрын

    great video sir! i just recently bought an Slk 200 without knowing much about the car, i fell for the design but now i love the concept and i definitely will keep the car.

  • @randomdyfbrn

    @randomdyfbrn

    3 жыл бұрын

    hey ! is it realiable ?

  • @chrissturgess4323
    @chrissturgess43234 жыл бұрын

    Bought one 3months ago.. best car I have ever owned.. great looks awesome performance.. best bang for your buck/ pound 👍

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    Congrats !

  • @Jwdude123

    @Jwdude123

    3 жыл бұрын

    Gey

  • @chrissturgess4323

    @chrissturgess4323

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@Jwdude123 you can’t even spell 😂😂😂😂

  • @paulward4268

    @paulward4268

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@chrissturgess4323 Hahaha probably can't write either. :)

  • @allanritchsr.4792
    @allanritchsr.47922 ай бұрын

    Love my SLK as well.

  • @pappyodanial
    @pappyodanial4 жыл бұрын

    Nice production value.

  • @Subtlesyb
    @Subtlesyb4 жыл бұрын

    I have a 2005 and I love it!

  • @giannagiavelli5098

    @giannagiavelli5098

    4 жыл бұрын

    i just got a 2005 manual! Cant wait for it to get here!

  • @philbalmet5521
    @philbalmet55214 жыл бұрын

    I have a 2015 SLK 350 and I love it.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    Enjoy it! It’s a great car.

  • @wjames2000
    @wjames20004 жыл бұрын

    I got my 05 SLK350 9 months ago and love it. Then I got a 911 cab recently and I still drive the SLK more because it is a fun little car comparing to the 911. The 911 feels like too much of car sometimes and I am still learning to drive it.

  • @Watch-Crazy
    @Watch-Crazy Жыл бұрын

    The SLK is highly underrated, and currently it's an incredible proposition, what other two seater hard top convertible mercedes sports cars are there for under 10k and many still with low mileage. Given it's no supercar, it's terrible to drive round corners in the wet and forget about trying to drive it in snow and ice, but all that said it's simply stunning, definitely a future classic! Pleased you're planning to keep it! Love mine!

  • @adamwivell8300
    @adamwivell83006 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for this video. Your stoic and honest review of this car is refreshing. It's a wonderful looking thing, though I struggle with the interior. But overall, it's great that you enjoy it for what it means for you, rather than what some hypothetical 'guy' would think of a rear wheel drive almost 300hp car. For disclosure, I don't, nor have ever, owned this type of car. Good luck to you fella

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Thanks, Adam. Cars are one of those things which we all have strong biases about, no doubt. I think it's fun to challenge what we think about a car or what owning a certain one says about the driver. It's been a blast getting to know (and like) my SLK. Thanks for watching!

  • @meisterlymanu5214
    @meisterlymanu52146 жыл бұрын

    i bought a 2005 SLK 200 silver a year ago, and it was my first really nice car, and im in my 40s. I live in Spain so the top is almost always down, and i have a 15 min commute through mostly empty country lanes, so i guess im lucky. I love it, and it does look great top up or down. I can drive top down at 2am and still be warm in summer. Watch the steering column which can damage going over bumps, and the chrome wheels get rusty after a while, but i havent had a serious technical problem yet. Good vid.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching! I’m jealous that you get many more months of top down weather than we do. Enjoy your SLK!

  • @AnnIsherwood
    @AnnIsherwood5 жыл бұрын

    I love my Mercedes 350 SLK AMG - nothing to prove driving this beautiful car. Every day is a good day driving this car.

  • @nevittwoods1730

    @nevittwoods1730

    4 жыл бұрын

    beware of expensive imitations

  • @giannagiavelli5098

    @giannagiavelli5098

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@nevittwoods1730 hahhaa. mr z4 comes to mind

  • @Smog420skoosh

    @Smog420skoosh

    4 жыл бұрын

    The 55 is the amg slk the 350 is benz

  • @shaneX213

    @shaneX213

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@Smog420skoosh not necessarily, the 350 can still have the AMG package, SL 55 is the true amg still otherwise

  • @H.S.H.M.

    @H.S.H.M.

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@shaneX213 It has a AMG "appearance package", but its not a real AMG. Its still a 350 at the end of the day

  • @AmericanConstellation
    @AmericanConstellation4 жыл бұрын

    I have the same car. It just turned 40,000 miles. I just put new headlight housings on it. The thing looks brand new. I really enjoy driving the car. I get a lot of compliments. I think the car is a classic and will become a collectable.

  • @bladieblaat23

    @bladieblaat23

    2 жыл бұрын

    this model is probably the last one ever to become a collectable

  • @davemartinez6317
    @davemartinez63176 жыл бұрын

    I own a 280 & love it. I’m in love with my BENZO! 💯

  • @alderete74
    @alderete746 жыл бұрын

    great video getting mine today

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! Congrats!!

  • @rrpostalagain
    @rrpostalagain6 жыл бұрын

    I’m tracking mine once in a while, too. It’s a totally different experience than my fiesta ST.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Glad you’re taking it to the track! It’s a fun rear wheel drive toy.

  • @Fernandwinnie
    @Fernandwinnie3 жыл бұрын

    Lovely car

  • @1Skeptik1
    @1Skeptik14 жыл бұрын

    I have an 06 SLK 350. Facts: I am a seasoned citizen (68) and owned several 60's era muscle cars back in the day and my little Benz with a top end of 160 mph and 14.0 quarter mile would outrun them all. (GTOs., Mustangs, Impalas, Chargers even my C-3 Vetts) and I can give the kids in their 5.0 Mustangs heartburn today. It's a beautiful car!

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    I agree. This car is quite the unsung hero.

  • @RoyVibe01
    @RoyVibe016 жыл бұрын

    Great video & I also subscribed, would love to see some more

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Thanks, Roy. Welcome to the channel, more to come!

  • @sophiestanley8682
    @sophiestanley86826 жыл бұрын

    I just bought and SLK350 and I love it. It's a all-around car it's fast the sound of it is just perfect it's not too loud. I think the handling the ride it is to me as good as the SL. I wish you all the best with your new car. You know the old saying is the best or nothin.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    +Sophie Stanley , I agree - it’s a great car. I’ve been a bit surprised since my purchase with how much the performance, aesthetics and solid build quality have won me over. Kudos on your new ride!

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    5 жыл бұрын

    (Knocks on wood) I’ve been stunned how trouble free my SLK350 has been. Other than the HVAC repair I documented in a recent episode, I have had zero issues. Solid.

  • @TheReelDealwithTomKonkle
    @TheReelDealwithTomKonkle Жыл бұрын

    I absolutely love mine

  • @THEbenmortimer
    @THEbenmortimer2 ай бұрын

    I pick one of these up on Monday in the same colour and wheels as this. It's only done 44k miles. I've had two manual r170 320's previously too. But it'll be nice to have the newer variant with the 7speed auto and obviously more power 👌

  • @stephanelaroche955
    @stephanelaroche9556 жыл бұрын

    thank 4 this video....

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Stéphane Laroche thanks for watching!

  • @scottw1174
    @scottw11744 жыл бұрын

    They are a beautiful car , i had a 2009 i bought new,mine never stayed out of the dealer, after 4 years of ownership and only 4200, i traded if off, i hope you have better luck with yours

  • @CarlsGarage1
    @CarlsGarage14 жыл бұрын

    Just got one, I love the SLR looking at the front

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    Congrats!

  • @giannagiavelli5098

    @giannagiavelli5098

    4 жыл бұрын

    yah thats what kept me going for the older manual rather than the newer 350s which look like mustangs. that slc43 though... does compell me .. but maybe in a few years when their price has come down.

  • @MrOmgfreak
    @MrOmgfreak6 жыл бұрын

    hmmm im thinkin i might have to try and find one of these

  • @ricandogg619jasonreyes8
    @ricandogg619jasonreyes82 жыл бұрын

    I'm looking at one in L.A. tommarrow. Hope its nice, going to be driving from San Diego. Wish me luck World.

  • @miavonni
    @miavonni4 жыл бұрын

    Well done my man, This will be my next Benz I’m enthralled.

  • @Zedonhia
    @Zedonhia4 жыл бұрын

    I have a 04 slk 350 and It's the best car I've ever owned!

  • @giannagiavelli5098

    @giannagiavelli5098

    4 жыл бұрын

    I have a 97 del sol vtec but I'm getting too old to put the top on. the manual 350 slk should be a tiny smidge faster.

  • @frogfoot6218
    @frogfoot62186 жыл бұрын

    Great vid :-)

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    +Peter Heidstra thanks for watching!

  • @StreakingTiger
    @StreakingTiger6 жыл бұрын

    I bought my 2006 SLK350 in 2009 with 20K miles on it. It is the same color as your car, but has the AMG package and automatic trans plus the Premium package with wood/leather steering wheel and wood-grain dash. It's awesome IMO. I've only put 61K miles on it in 9 years, so I almost never drive it. I did add a rear-view monitor that works perfectly. The '06 did not have the option to pair my iPhone, so that is the only drawback that I have found. I don't like the GPS even though I have updated maps, so I use a Garmin GPS that works perfectly, and it pairs my phone, so it solved both problems. I am considering moving to the S550, but if I do, I might regret it forever.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Sounds like you’ve had some good time in your SLK. Having sold a few of my former ‘fun’ cars and then living to regret it, I plan on keeping my SLK so I have something when we are all forces to go electric in 20 years!

  • @jonscoupe
    @jonscoupe6 жыл бұрын

    Great video. I too have just bought a 350 SLK over here in the UK. I have owned a number of Mercedes cars in the past and currently own a C180 kompressor sport, but wanted a fun car for the weekend. After several months of looking at various options such as Boxsters, 350Zs, Z4s I decided to stick to a Merc and settled for the 350 SLK. I just love the looks, power and build quality of these cars and they are extremely quick. Looking forward to your next videos of your 350 SLK ownership.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    jonscoupe thanks for watching and congrats on the new ride!

  • @rscosworthfan

    @rscosworthfan

    6 жыл бұрын

    i may be soon getting the 350 slk whats the ride quality like and what do you think of it overall im getting around a 2008-2009 r171 model we currently have a cls 350 petrol which we are keeping that car is ace.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    The ride in my SLK (a 2005) isn’t supple. It’s not as GT car soft as my Z4 35is which has a similar platform and size. That said, I’m comparing it to a daily driver which is pretty comfy (the current C class Mercedes) and my bushings could be a bit brittle since the car is 13 years old.

  • @Blaster1995.
    @Blaster1995.5 жыл бұрын

    Im about to get a slk 350 automatic transmission for my first car, im so exited.

  • @bak2mb

    @bak2mb

    5 жыл бұрын

    how do u like the 350? im planning to get one thanks

  • @amiatroll6347

    @amiatroll6347

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@bak2mb The 2005 SLK 350 is a joy to drive.

  • @allanritchsr.4792
    @allanritchsr.47922 ай бұрын

    WoW, Thinking I may have been a Slk 350 lover by myself, but not at all, my 2014 350 is a special convertable that's really turned head's, and reliable for sure, after having my 350 for 7 years now it's amazing how really great it is to own a sporty convertable, with a retired income, but the expense isn't any more than owning an average priced sedan from one of the big three, so get the exspence over, after you get those four new Michelin super sport tires, as that's likely your last major expense. Treat her well. Al

  • @burakcaliskanman9316
    @burakcaliskanman93164 жыл бұрын

    Great video. I would like to buy that one. I wonder it has driving modes like Eco, Sport ? Thanks

  • @tjaartjacobs5546
    @tjaartjacobs55462 жыл бұрын

    Great vid Sir, unfortunately in South Africa the R171's where never available in manual. The seven speed auto isn't bad though. Especially on long journeys. I owned one. And made a big mistake by selling it. Looking to get one soon again💪💪💪💪💪

  • @Fernandwinnie

    @Fernandwinnie

    Жыл бұрын

    I prefer the auto

  • @oscoe
    @oscoe9 ай бұрын

    I always thought they were hairdressers cars. Even when I bought one I kind of did so through gritted teeth. Now after 2 years I KNOW these are great cars. And I’ve had Boxster, M cars and loads of others.

  • @pierreneron9903
    @pierreneron99036 жыл бұрын

    I bought the same car three years ago (same color, red seats, amg package, and pristine). Love this "bijou" named Emmanuelle because she (like yours) is manual. I had some nice sports cars since 1968... but Emmanuelle is by far "the best in the west and the north for sure"!

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Thanks, Pierre. I love red interiors - had red leather on my BMW Z4. I haven't named my SLK yet... I'll have to think about that :)

  • @dougantelman2369
    @dougantelman23696 жыл бұрын

    I bought a 2006 SLK350 with a manual trans. I love the 6 speed gearbox, it’s the best manual gearbox I’ve ever driven. The car has a fair amount of body roll for a sports car and the exhaust is relatively tame. I do like the luxury features that the SLK has vs. a cheaper car like a Miata. And the V6 has tons of low end torque unlike the S2000. Not sure if the SLK will become collectible.. they made a lot of them.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Agreed on the gearbox, Doug. Somehow, lurking in a world of other cars known for their shifters was this sleeper car which feels like a celebration of the manual.

  • @dougantelman2369

    @dougantelman2369

    6 жыл бұрын

    One big dislike: the cup holders! I never use them.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    5 жыл бұрын

    True. Ingenious design but a pain to use.

  • @dougantelman2369

    @dougantelman2369

    5 жыл бұрын

    I have the COMAND unit in the dash, if anything spills it can ruin your control unit. Cold drinks have condensation that drips onto the stereo.

  • @allanritchsr.4792

    @allanritchsr.4792

    2 ай бұрын

    They also made alot of Camero's as well, with their starting price for the big block V8 with manual 4 speed on the floor, their price wasn't but a few bucks north of $ 2000.00 two grand, and if you found a 67 or 68 today, you'd have to layout $ 40 plus grand ?? Yeah ! I would say , I wish I could have those years back, as I'd buy a dozen VW bugs as well.. $ 1,600. Each, can you imagine how quick you'd sell them at $ 10,000 each while doing the buyer a favor. All the best.

  • @RedPillVegan
    @RedPillVegan6 жыл бұрын

    Subbed. I'm not a track guy, but you and I share a lot of similar thoughts on non turbo, manual. I see it. I like the way this video was framed, delivered, and edited. You need more subs. Brian G Johnson TV is a channel that can help you with that info, helped me. I am going to scroll through your videos and see if you ever got that update with performance upgrades published. And if you haven't, definitely looking forward to more about this car from you.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Red, much appreciated! It’s been a busy spring and early summer so I’m behind on my episode production but I’ll get back up to speed soon. Thanks for watching and subbing!

  • @dougantelman2369
    @dougantelman23695 жыл бұрын

    The best upgrade you can make to an SLK is the smart top. No more sitting there for 22 seconds

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    5 жыл бұрын

    Good point. I liked being able to raise and lower the top on the roll with my Z4.

  • @spodface12
    @spodface12 Жыл бұрын

    Heya chap. love your car and so sorry about the video you posted about your crash. just glad your ok, may i ask though i love the alloys you have on this, have any idea what they are called

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching. Yes, I miss the car. The wheels were factory original. Here’s a link: www.redlineautoparts.com/mercedes-benz/2005-2011-slk-r171/2005-2011-mercedes-benz-slk-r171-oem-17-wheels-rims-set-of-4-sk210/?network=g&device=m&keyword=&campaign=1717427966&adgroup=pla-478216210257&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KursbXA_gIVpcbjBx3y7wGrEAQYGSABEgKiHvD_BwE

  • @allanritchsr.4792
    @allanritchsr.47922 ай бұрын

    Sorry for the skip, my dog was calling me so he could pee.. TO BE BUYING YOUR SLK, WOW, It's been 7 year's since I bought mine a 2014 350 convertable black on black and so fine, do yourself a favor and have new Michelin super sport tires put on and relax as that's likely your last major exspence, wish I could buy all on todays market, they'll be a classic to own within 5 year's, enjoy your ride, I'm 82 and still love the breeze in my face. Semper Fi. Mercedes guy. Enjoy your Slk, like my wife and I do..

  • @mattward540
    @mattward5406 жыл бұрын

    Not a lot of after market because if you really want performance you’d go with the 55. But then you can’t have a manual gearbox. That being said I think that 350 is a great car.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Hey Matt, I love the extra power and snarl of the 55 but, yes, I had to have a manual. I’d have enjoyed the 55 on the highway but would have felt a little bummed on the track.

  • @rrpostalagain

    @rrpostalagain

    6 жыл бұрын

    The price difference is insane between the two. There are many 350s to choose from and find a well cared for example. Whereas I found two 55s that would’ve run me so much money, I would have been into a completely different class of cars I’d be comparing it to. Today’s cheap hp is leaving some really competent cars behind. For the record, my previous car was an Audi s4 that had a supercharger and a little under 500 at the wheels. A different type of fun, for sure.

  • @rscosworthfan
    @rscosworthfan6 жыл бұрын

    these are best in auto form

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Hmm, if you mean automatic transmission, I'd say I love a powerful car with a fantastic DCT, but for this driving experience I had to have manual.

  • @rscosworthfan

    @rscosworthfan

    6 жыл бұрын

    i like manuals too but mercedes manuals aint that good they are very notchy ive had 3 mercedes manuals i dont rate them however my latest one with 7 speed auto is silky smooth and shifting

  • @410kane

    @410kane

    5 жыл бұрын

    rscosworthfan I like my automatic slk350. Pretty easy to work on. Hardest thing to change on most Mercedes including this is the starter

  • @treeskier802
    @treeskier802Ай бұрын

    How would you compare the handling of the slk350 to a Miata? I like the added power the Mercedes has. Would it be a good canyon carver?

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    Ай бұрын

    I’m sad to admit I’ve never driven a Miata and have only ridden in a caged out track-only MX5 at triple digit speeds. So, while I can’t compare them, I loved the smooth non turbo 6 cylinder power of the SLK and how much fun it was to drive. Can’t go wrong.

  • @cesarbojorquez7418
    @cesarbojorquez74184 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the video. I just got a 06 slk 350. Do you have any concerns about drive shaft problem? Any advice you could share about reliability would be great. Thanks

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    I read up on the drive shaft issue after I purchased this car - having missed the fault in my research prior to buying (to my dismay!!). There are methods for removal of the fan cowling and visually inspecting the top dead center position of the shaft through an eyelet so you can see if your alignment is correct. I must admit I haven’t checked mine and I’ve simply operated under the ‘service it well, drive it with joy, deal with issues as they arise’ motto. (Just made that motto up.) Bottom line is I hope to be outside of the 6% or so that we’re supposed to be impacted by the fault. As for reliability, other than a recharge and service of my HVAC which I covered in an episode, the car has been perfect.

  • @cesarbojorquez7418

    @cesarbojorquez7418

    4 жыл бұрын

    Between The Wheels I have 85k miles on mine and it runs great so far. I would recommend joining the slk world forum. There are tons of info on how to fix issues like the cabin rattles.

  • @mitkomitkov8192
    @mitkomitkov81924 жыл бұрын

    I see you replace original CD radio with after market one with bluetooth..can you say what is this model and where I can found one please 😊

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    I replaced it with a JVC model but I wouldn’t recommend it. The one I purchased was better than stock but really not visible in a convertible and had no navigation. Sony and Alpine have very nice units that work on the SLK and have Apple Carplay and/or Android Auto.

  • @rodchamp7510
    @rodchamp75105 жыл бұрын

    I have the 2012 Merc 350slk - I'm guessing I'll have it a long long long time as it takes a lot of beating - only the 991 Porsche is tempting and that car has crappy storage on no folding hard top - slk 350 is faster than a lot of porsches - blows any Audi TT for speed , I'm annoyed how much I like mine as any other car I get won't live up to it

  • @ianjnelson
    @ianjnelson3 жыл бұрын

    Just bought one, beautiful triple black. I live in Brisbane Australia and most of the year you can leave the top down, yeeeehhaa. Don't they "haul arce"

  • @RoyVibe01
    @RoyVibe016 жыл бұрын

    What year is your 350? I have a 2009 SLK 350 & I love it! I’m right at 100,000 miles and have owned this one for 4 years with no real problems. I plan on keeping this one but I do wish it sounded more like the 2013 model, there a little more load & open sounding & I would love to add some carbon fiber to the dash or at least replace some of the buttons on the command center they are loosing some of the black skin or whatever it’s called. If anyone has some suggestions I would love to hear about it. My car is Diamond Silver and all black interior with the navigation system and some of the buttons are even sticky so I have to do a lot of detail cleaning. Thanks Roy

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Mine is a 2005, first year they built the R171. I agree that the sound could be more aggressive, I haven’t heard an aftermarket exhaust I love yet. Maybe I’ll find one.

  • @UnderMyThumb

    @UnderMyThumb

    6 жыл бұрын

    Check out Piechas exhaust. Sounds awesome!

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    I’ve heard sound clips and I agree!

  • @allanritchsr.4792

    @allanritchsr.4792

    2 ай бұрын

    Find an affordable detailer and upholstery guy that will do his magic on your cockpit, I assume your speaking of, plus new floor Matt's, keep your tires in great shape, your likely running 18" wheels possibly Michelin super sport tires. All so worth the cost, and don't forget your two air filters in the cabin, a touch of fragerance and there's no regrets. Good luck..

  • @allans7281
    @allans72813 жыл бұрын

    Other than the front end I’ve got issues with the whole car

  • @bretnielsen5502
    @bretnielsen55022 жыл бұрын

    Love mine... Just like yours................

  • @petebrown6356
    @petebrown63563 жыл бұрын

    I have a 2005 SLK 350, best car I've ever owned - over 8 years later. Still looks great, still get compliments. People think I'm driving a $60k car.

  • @juann1950

    @juann1950

    2 жыл бұрын

    do u have any mods

  • @petebrown6356

    @petebrown6356

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@juann1950 it isn't a great car to mod...plenty of fun stock.

  • @loganreaktenwalt3852

    @loganreaktenwalt3852

    2 жыл бұрын

    How reliable has it been in your 8 years of ownership?

  • @petebrown6356

    @petebrown6356

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@loganreaktenwalt3852 bullet proof. Roof, engine, trans, body, electronics...best car I've ever owned.

  • @crxdelsolsir
    @crxdelsolsir5 жыл бұрын

    Get a Honda Del Sol. Same compact, 2 door, open top car with near identical dimensions. Has tons of aftermarket parts that can grow with you as much as you like. From 1.3, 1.4, 1.5 engines to popular 1.6 Single Cam (no Vtec), 1.6 Dual Cam (No Vtec), 1.6 Single Cam (Vtec), 1.6 Dual Cam (Vtec) to 1.8 Dual Cam (No Vtec), to 1.8 Dual Cam (Vtec) to 2.0 Dual Cam (Non Vtec), 2.0 Dual Cam (Vtec). D series motors, B series motors, H series motors to current K series motors. Turbo of each mentioned engine... etc... etc..

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    5 жыл бұрын

    Had one, it was my very first new car. Loved it. I wanted rear (or all) wheel drive in this case.

  • @Void-wm5hh
    @Void-wm5hh5 жыл бұрын

    Great car, I’m thinking of getting one for myself as a daily commute. However, since you put a huge emphasis on track, why not look into Nissan 350z/370z? I’ve owned a 350z and with some quality coilovers, it will handle great, it will run great and it looks nice and aggressive - not feminine to any degree (not to say that SLK does but haters might throw that and it’s tough to counter because it does kinda look unisex)

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    5 жыл бұрын

    I have owned two old Z cars back in the day and the 350/370 was on my shortlist. Bottom line was a bit of timing (I didn’t find one in the condition I wanted it within my time frame) and a bit of preference for wanting something that felt and was lighter and more nimble than what the Z has become (kind of a baby GT car).

  • @Void-wm5hh

    @Void-wm5hh

    5 жыл бұрын

    Between The Wheels fair enough, so long as you did try it out hah

  • @giannagiavelli5098
    @giannagiavelli50984 жыл бұрын

    I just bought a manual 350. oh god i'm nervous. you were a large part of that. so while yours is gone.. another driver begins

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    Enjoy it! It’s a great car and you can continue the tradition!

  • @giannagiavelli5098

    @giannagiavelli5098

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BetweenTheWheels I will strive to be worthy! videos to come! It's a pinch not fast enough so thats my first thing after a new radio. I'm looking at a Kenwood DNR476S about $700 installed but its full modern. Yah not the wheel cover, those round buttons for volume. My car has a worn out one and I'm scratchin my head...spraypaint?

  • @duncanidaho7494
    @duncanidaho74943 жыл бұрын

    Mercedes Benz SLK 350 2009 with the facelift and automatic transmission. Reliability wise it has been amazing. 11 years and had one single issue which was less than 700$ at the dealer. The engine/exhaust is a lot louder than the prefacelifted version which it makes it feel quiet sporty. The downsides are the steering, automatic transmission and the interior quality which are quiet ordinary. The BMW E90 scored a lot higher in these departments.

  • @VolvoGirl1987
    @VolvoGirl19875 жыл бұрын

    Are you a member of the Mercedes SLK R171 Owners Club International on Facebook? It's the biggest group of its kind and would love for you to come and say hello and share more of your SLK with us.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    5 жыл бұрын

    No, I’m not but I’ll check it out! Thanks!

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    5 жыл бұрын

    Donna Ludlow I just checked out the FB group and asked to join. Thanks for suggesting it!

  • @VolvoGirl1987

    @VolvoGirl1987

    5 жыл бұрын

    Feel free to introduce yourself if you haven't already :-)

  • @sonnyvito504
    @sonnyvito504 Жыл бұрын

    You seem kinda tall how is the ride comfort I'm 5'9 250

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    Жыл бұрын

    I’m 6’ and had plenty of room for street driving. With a helmet on I was pinned to the roof.

  • @robbiekim6921
    @robbiekim69214 жыл бұрын

    Are the slk models reliable? Looking to buy one

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    I had mine for over two years and only one issue, replaced an AC component myself and all was good. Very solid car if well maintained.

  • @robbiekim6921

    @robbiekim6921

    4 жыл бұрын

    Also, how much was a full tank of gas to fill up?

  • @robbiekim6921

    @robbiekim6921

    4 жыл бұрын

    If you dont remember its all good. Im just buying one after this corona virus is calmed down

  • @jagcheema3934
    @jagcheema39343 жыл бұрын

    “Hey uhh who brought the hair dressers car “

  • @j0nt2
    @j0nt24 жыл бұрын

    Still own it mr?

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    Sadly, no. See kzread.info/dash/bejne/lYqfwcSbacLdfrw.html

  • @mitkomitkov8192
    @mitkomitkov81924 жыл бұрын

    I love my 350 ..but I burn the clutch last day...and its happens very easily. Do you have experience with that clutch

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    It was always an area I worried about with how hard I drove the car, but I never had a single issue, even after over 50K miles.

  • @mitkomitkov8192

    @mitkomitkov8192

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BetweenTheWheels after 2nd try to set fast acceleration thime clutch blows kzread.info/dash/bejne/ZXqN17typJjWcbA.html

  • @PETERNESS
    @PETERNESS4 жыл бұрын

    tip top review,why havent you got a television deal so more people can have a decent automotive show?

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the kind words. Maybe someday :).

  • @thecellm8tube
    @thecellm8tube4 жыл бұрын

    lower the passenger seat, let them sink init:)

  • @tsnaha
    @tsnahaАй бұрын

    Trade it for a 55

  • @johnmeagher9537
    @johnmeagher95375 жыл бұрын

    V

  • @joea3508
    @joea35086 жыл бұрын

    SLKs are great autos... if you own one, you know what I mean. Miatas are for kids.

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    6 жыл бұрын

    Ha, maybe so, Joe :). Some days I wish I’d gone with a Miata as my track car since parts and upgrades would be easier but the SLK is such a great, solid car that I’m happy with it.

  • @LeftyS7

    @LeftyS7

    5 жыл бұрын

    Have you actually driven a Miata? I sold a M Roadster because it didn't handle as well and was less fun to drive than my Wife's Mazdaspeed Miata and my 2010 SLK350 is less fun to drive than my Wife's current ND Miata. On a twisty mountain highway there is no comparison. On a racetrack maybe the SLK is better. Miatas are raced more than any other car in the U.S. I'm not a kid, I'm 75 and had a Caterham Super 7 for ten years that I ran in the Virginia City Hillclimb for 8 years. The SLK is a very comfortable daily driver and I'm very happy with it

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    5 жыл бұрын

    Yes, I have, and I agree. There’s a reason the Miata is the legend it is. Pure drivers car.

  • @shaunsnyman5107
    @shaunsnyman5107 Жыл бұрын

    Yes its a hairdresser cars

  • @fuffoon
    @fuffoon5 ай бұрын

    Men do hair also. Many are hetero too so no complex necessary.

  • @thesilentgametestr
    @thesilentgametestr Жыл бұрын

    people are idiots when it comes to the hair dresser car comment. lots of men/women who arent hairdressers drive these cars, also hair dressers drive any car.. hell some drive range rovers or bmw x5 stuff. one thing you will probably find is that these so called hairdressers folks speak of dont drive convertibles with the top down. ive never been inside or driven and slk or even anything like a Z4, but i am currently looking to get one as i miss having a convertible. plus they are cool sporty roadsters. On another note im surprised you like the manual as they get bad reviews. infact auto seems to be the best option for any merc.

  • @canneddinners6059
    @canneddinners60593 жыл бұрын

    Isn't this a money pit?

  • @BetweenTheWheels

    @BetweenTheWheels

    3 жыл бұрын

    Mine was no more expensive to maintain than a modern day Toyota.

  • @creativeslink
    @creativeslink5 жыл бұрын

    Homophobic displays in the car world is so boring. They are probably just mad cuz they got bad hair.

  • @bobrogers7004
    @bobrogers70044 ай бұрын

    Spent £4k on an engine rebuild due to soft balancer sprockets for it to burst into flames 3 months later. Awful seats, cheap interior, choppy handling , modern Mercedes lousy quality. At speed you need to keep a firm hold with both hands.Replaced with a 635d which was better in every way ...even the roof was unreliable and misdiagnosed by the useless Mercedes Star diagnostics. Would never buy another Mercedes.These SLK lovers must have been driving Fords or something equally crap to rate these 😂

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