Mercedes’ SLC 300 Final Edition is the last batch of its popular roadster after 23 years and sales topping 710,000
THESE pages are usually about latest models – not the ones heading for the scrapheap. And there is something very final about a car with the words Final Edition in its name. That’s because the Mercedes SLC 300 Final Edition is the last batch of the popular roadster after 23 years and sales topping 710,000. […]
THESE pages are usually about latest models – not the ones heading for the scrapheap.
And there is something very final about a car with the words Final Edition in its name.
That’s because the Mercedes SLC 300 Final Edition is the last batch of the popular roadster after 23 years and sales topping 710,000.
Normally, cars that are being pensioned off look tired and outdated. But the SLC, previously the SLK until 2016, still looks cool.
You could argue that the British weather alone makes owning a roadster a waste of time. The fact it rained for five of the seven days I had the Merc seemed to back that up.
But on the days of fair weather and the heated seats and heated neck airscarf on full blast, I had a smile on my face with the roof down – and driving was the fun it should be. With the all-glass roof up, the SLC is almost as quiet as any hard-top and looks more stylish.
The SLC was never a serious performance roadster, even if you bought the 3-litre V6 AMG version. Its all about looking the part and cruising. The SLC is a bit like a German international footballer. Professional and polished, it may not be the very best in its position but it is consistent and always delivers.
Steering is precise and the performance from the 2-litre petrol is good for 0-62 mph in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. Fast enough for most. Economy is an acceptable 35-37mpg. And the Final Edition does get sports suspension tuned for improved handling and driving dynamics, which also lowers the car by 10mm.
A nine-speed automatic gearbox reminds you of the SLC’s more laid-back approach, but you can work the paddles on the steering wheel to switch up driver involvement.
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All of which makes the SLC a nice, intimate place to travel. In true Merc style, you are cocooned in Nappa leather and quality trim.
I liked the 7in colour screen for the infotainment system, a welcome change from the bulky iPad-sized versions. Everything about the SLC feels premium – it should at £46k.
It’s a fitting farewell for one of Merc’s most stylish models of the past two decades.
KEY FACTS: MERCEDES SLC 300 FINAL EDITION
Price: £46,161
Engine: 2-litre petrol
Power: 245hp
0-62mph: 5.8 secs
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