2005 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz SLK R171 review

Carlsson Mercedes-Benz SLK R171 review:

Carlsson, the Mercedes-Benz tuner from Merzig in the Southwest of Germany, presents a driving machine with unbridled power: the CM55 K based on the SLK 55. It is not only the 480 bhp but also the new design that gives the SLK such a powerful and muscular appearance compared to its predecessor.

Breathtaking increase in output to 480 bhp

Thanks to the Carlsson supercharger, the engine output of the base SLK 55 is boosted to a breathtaking 480 bhp / 353 kW and a maxim torque of 650 Nm at 2800 rpm. Top speed climbs to 315 km/h while acceleration from a standing start to 100 km/h takes but 4.1 seconds. Appropriate deceleration is ensured by a high-performance braking system with 6-piston light-alloy callipers and internally ventilated, composite discs measuring 380x32 mm at the front and 4-piston light-alloy callipers and internally ventilated discs measuring 340x22 mm at the back.

Lowering via a RS suspension system

A RS suspension system consisting of 4 sports shock absorbers and 4 Carlson sports springs lowers the car's centre of gravity and gives it an even more sporting look. The suspension system has an infinitely variable height adjustment and adjustable damping characteristics with nine settings.

High-grade aerodynamics set

The high-grade aerodynamics set for the CM55 K based on the SLK 55 consists of a front spoiler with supplementary xenon fog lamps and large brake-ventilation ducts plus aerodynamically optimised side mouldings with ventilation ducts for the rear brakes and a rear-wheel cover to reduce air resistance. The set also includes a rear apron with bottom wings, under-body panels and a rear spoiler to reduce lift. A sporting sound is guaranteed by the rear Carlsson sports silencer, which is made of stainless steel and boasts four oval tailpipes.

Luxurious leather interior

Thanks to the exclusive leather interior appointments from Carlsson, the passenger compartment exudes a luxurious atmosphere. Individual and ergonomically designed seats finished in the finest leather ensure perfect lateral support. The side panels, the shift grip and the ergonomic sports steering wheel are also covered with top-quality leather.

1/16 Ultra Light forged wheels

For the wheels, Carlsson has chosen 1/16 UL ultra-light forged wheels measuring 8.5 x 19" with 235/35 ZR 19 tyres for the front and 10 x 19" with Dunlop 265/30 ZR 19 tyres for the back.

Carlsson CK20 on the basis of the SLK 200

For the SLK 200, Carlsson offers the CK20 engine performance kit, which increases the engine output of the SLK 200 to 195 bhp / 144 kW with maximum torque of 270Nm at 3500 rpm. Top speed rises to 234 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.7 seconds.

1/16 Brilliant Edition aluminium wheels

For the front and rear axles of the SLK 200, Carlsson chose one-piece Brilliant Edition wheels measuring 8.5 x 18" with Dunlop 225/40 ZR 18 tyres. End of Carlsson Mercedes-Benz SLK R171 review.