The new Mercedes-Benz SLK: Passion meets efficiency - Daimler

The "small" roadsters from Mercedes-BenzPage 50Evolution of sheer driving pleasure – from the190 SL to the SLKThe new Mercedes-Benz SLK features a new, exciting design,exceptionally high levels of comfort for a roadster, as well as exquisitetechnology and no shortage of open-air driving pleasure. As such, theagile sports car already in its third generation looks set to continue asuccess story which started back in 1994, with a show car. Strictlyspeaking, however, the pedigree of the SLK stretches back even further –to the 190 SL, a vehicle which automotive enthusiasts were alreadydreaming about in 1955 as the economic upturn was starting in theFederal Republic of Germany.When the SLK appeared as a series-produced car in 1996, it not only caused astir on the road but also established a new market segment which has sincegrown by leaps and bounds. With the steel vario-roof, which transforms theroadster into an all-weather coupé within a matter of seconds, the roadster hasbeen and still is the role model for many open-top cars. The success of the SLKhas exceeded all expectations: to date, well over half a million owners havebeen delighted with their purchase of an SLK Roadster.The 190 SL – a new star in the automotive firmament in 1955With the SLK, Mercedes-Benz continued its roadster tradition which stretchesback a long way. Its direct ancestor is considered to be the 190 SL, which owesits existence primarily to the perseverance of Maximilian Edwin Hoffman. Theenterprising American with Austrian roots was importing European cars intothe USA as early as 1946, and in doing so demonstrated infallible instinct andtremendous flair. In 1953 he urged the executive board of Daimler-Benz tobuild a more affordable sports car, in addition to the 300 SL, for the Americanmarket. As an elegant sports car from a well-known company featuring anexciting design at a low price, the 190 SL was designed to charm theAmericans.Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/GermanyMercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand