We dissect the fastest version of Merc’s latest convertible, the Mercedes-Benz SLC 43 AMG

 

• The new SLK has replaced the old 7G-tronic gearbox with an all new 9-speed one. This, along with the extra turbos, helps fill up any power gaps between the SLC and its predecessor. It also spreads power out more evenly, allowing the car to cruise long distances better than before.

 

 

• Enthusiasts may lament the fact that the new SLC is down on power by 53 bhp when compared to the old SLK. The new car’s 367 bhp isn’t to be laughed at, though, especially when you take into account its 0-100 kph time of 4.7 seconds.

 

 

• Along with the new nomenclature, the new SLC gets a new engine, and a new numerical suffix. The ‘43’ here denotes the size of the engine, which isn’t the biggest in the AMG stable. However this is the quickest engine available in the SLC, which dispenses with the old, naturally-aspirated V8 and gets a bi-turbo V6.

 

 

• That’s 53 kgm of torque on a compact roadster, with a lighter kerb weight than a lot of contemporary supercars.

 

 

• Although the SLC makes plenty of power throughout the rev band, the claimed peak torque kicks in at about 5500-6000 rpm, edging close to its bottom end of an electronically limited 6500 rpm.

 

 

• The new SLC gets a 3-litre, 6-cylinder V6, which is essentially two more cylinders than the new Porsche Boxster. Given the global crackdown on emissions, this downsizing of engines is a norm we’re just going to have to get used to. Long live turbochargers.

 

 

• Rs 77.5 lakh is what you’ll have to dish out, if you’re in the market for a swanky little roadster. The BMW Z4 is a little old, and the rest of the competition might have downsized a bit too much for the enthusiast’s liking. The SLC is one of the most desirable roadsters out there, with a foldable hardtop, sub-400 bhp levels of power, and sporting Merc’s contemporary design cues. Not exactly a bad deal.