Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class/SLC-Class
The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a compact premium roadster that's notable for its innovative 'Vario-Roof,' an automated folding hardtop. This feature offered coupe-like security and year-round usability, giving it a key advantage over its soft-top competitors.
Find one with Spotter →Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class/SLC-Class sold for a median of $10,050 over the last 12 months, based on 134 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $6,600 and $15,988. 2,279 currently for sale.
Listings
Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class/SLC-Class Submodels
The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class debuted in 1996, revitalizing the compact premium roadster market. Its defining feature was the 'Vario-Roof', an automated folding hardtop that offered the security of a coupe with the fun of a convertible. This innovation set it apart from rivals like the Porsche Boxster and BMW Z3, establishing a new standard for year-round usability in a small sports car.
Spanning three generations (R170, R171, and R172), the SLK evolved with styling cues from its larger siblings, like the SLR and SLS. Collector interest is strongest for the AMG models. The supercharged V6 SLK 32 AMG and the V8-powered SLK 55 AMG are particularly sought after, with the R171 SLK 55 AMG being one of the smallest cars ever fitted with a production V8. The final generation was renamed the SLC-Class in 2016 for its mid-cycle refresh.
With an average sale price around $15,620, the SLK/SLC is an affordable entry point for a modern Mercedes roadster. The market is broad, with early, high-mileage examples available for very little, while pristine, low-mileage AMG variants and special editions like the SLK 55 AMG Black Series command significant premiums. Early AMG models, especially the R171, are showing signs of appreciation.
Buying Tips
- The Vario-Roof is the car's most complex feature. Test its operation multiple times, checking for smooth movement and any hydraulic fluid leaks around the pump and cylinders.
- First-generation R170 models are susceptible to rust, especially around the wheel arches, door bottoms, and front spring perches. Inspect these areas carefully.
- On R171 models, the 'Airscarf' neck-level heating system can fail. Ensure both sides blow warm air when activated, as repairs can be costly.
- For SLK 55 AMG models, check for oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, a common issue on the M113 V8 engine.
Prices range from under $600 for project cars to over $317,000 for rare, top-spec AMG models.
5,194 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class/SLC-Class vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 2279 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class/SLC-Class cost?
Over the last 12 months, Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class/SLC-Class sold for a median of $10,050 across 134 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $6,600 and $15,988. There are 2,279 currently for sale.
How many Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class/SLC-Class listings are for sale right now?
There are 2,279 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class/SLC-Class listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.