Did somebody say Frankfurt Motor Show? Why else would Mercedes-Benz rush out two new SLKs in quick succession? The diesel SLK 250 CDI is interesting, but we're more excited about the dark goings on at Affalterbach that created this SLK 55 AMG.
The new SLK 55 AMG gets a 5.5-litre V8 engine to match its badge, the normally aspirated unit developing 420hp and 440Nm of torque. AMG's chassis people have been as busy as those shoehorning the V8 under the bonnet, with sports suspension, torque vectoring brakes and AMG Direct Steer all featured. There's the option of a Handling Pack too, if you want a stiffer ride combined with a limited slip differential, composite front brakes and AMG's Performance steering wheel. It all looks like a mini SL 63 AMG too, which is no bad thing.
Covering the 0-100km/ht in just 4.6 seconds and limited to 250km/h it's plenty quick, the twin flaps in the exhaust also certain to ensure it sounds great. Mercedes is pushing the AMG's economy, but really, we couldn't care less about its cylinder de-activation and stop-start systems. Nope, it's the 420hp we're interested in, especially as, in the old car, its 360hp felt fairly ample. Oh, and the roof goes up and down at the touch of a button...