mercedes slk and nissan z370
mercedes slk and nissan z370
The Mercedes SLK Class luxury roadster is available in SLK300, SLK350 and SLK55 AMG trims. The SLK300 features a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 228 horsepower while the SLK350's 3.5-liter V6 produces 300 hp. The SLK300 can be matched with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission, while the SLK350 gets only the auto. The SLK55 AMG boasts a beefy 355-hp 5.4-liter V8 that comes only with a seven-speed automatic.
When retracted the hardtop takes up space in the trunk, but there's still 6.5 cubic feet left for luggage. The cabin is attractive and features the expected soft-touch dash materials, but the COMAND interface can be frustrating. The seats look simple but provide good support even after several hours of driving. Keep the windows up while the top is down and there's minimal wind buffeting. If that's not enough, consider the optional Airscarf system that channels warm air to your neck and shoulders via dedicated registers in the headrests. It actually works quite well, teaming up with the seat heaters to make the Mercedes SLK one of the most useful all-weather convertibles on the market.
The Nissan 370Z is available in two body styles, a hatchback coupe and a roadster (convertible). There are three trims for the coupe: base, Touring and Nismo. The roadster comes in base and Touring. Each comes with the most powerful Z-car engine ever, a 3.7-liter V6 that cranks out 332 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic.
The high-winding Nissan 370z V6 is gutsy, though you'll know when you're getting close to the 7,500 rpm redline, as the engine sounds and feels rather coarse. In terms of handling, this latest Z is the best yet, boasting tenacious grip and sharp reflexes. Its ride quality is also more civilized than the previous car's, making the 370Z a better choice for commutes and long drives.