Mercedes-Benz R171

Mercedes-Benz R171

R171 represents the second generation of Mercedes-Benz SLK and is slightly larger than its predecessor the R170. The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a luxury roadster built by the German manufacturer Mercedes-Benz since 1997. The name was chosen to reflect the company's intentions for the car - that it be Sportlich (sporty), Leicht (light), and Kurz (short). It was in production from 2004 until 2011 when it was replaced by the R172.

Like its predecessor, the R171 featured a retractable hardtop. By the time the R171 was released, this had become an increasingly common feature in almost every newly introduced convertible, especially in Europe. The SLK was updated in 2004 with a new Formula One-inspired appearance; the new model also took design cues from the Mercedes-Benz Vision SLA concept car, presented in 2000. The vehicle was unveiled in 74th Geneva International Motor Show. Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class went on sale in Europe in 2004-03-27.