Mercedes SLK-55

SLK 55

It has the same capacity as the supercharged version found in the AMG-enhanced S-Class, E-Class, CL and SL, and now in the CLS, but the lack of forced aspiration sees power drop from 476bhp or so to 360. Torque dips too, from 516lb ft to 376.

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Should we feel short-changed? Not really; AMG couldn't let the SLK upstage the SL, and 360bhp is plenty for a compact sports car. So the notion of a 476bhp SLK will have to remain a rather violent dream for the moment. Maybe Brabus will do one, and trigger a worrying brand corruption among souped-up Benzes.

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The last AMG-tuned SLK had a supercharged 3.2-litre V6, but Euro IV emissions rules were against it. That's why the new one goes the big-bruiser route. The question is, does such a hefty lump of engine compromise what is a very sweet chassis, all the sweeter with a four-pot than with a V6? Piling in a V8 will surely tip the balance yet further away from the optimum.