1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK - SLK 230 Kompressor

Rare and spectacular color combination

Never road registered until recently

Original 1,992 kilometers

Chassis no.: WDB1704471F056682

Engine no.: 111.973-10-009742

Paint: 279 Vivianite Green Metallic

Interior: 227 Leather two-tone (red)

Provenance: Without

Factory options:

292 Sidebag in front left and right

533 Front and rear speakers – without radio

580 Air conditioner/Tempmatic

630 ECE-warning triangle

669 Spare wheel

726 Provision for roof rack system

826 Vehicles for France, additional parts

984 Elimination of ownership certificate but with COC papers

Documents:

German registration papers (2026)

About the model line:

W 170

With the introduction of the SLK in 1996, Mercedes-Benz opened an entirely new chapter in its roadster history. For the first time since the 190 SL, the company once again offered an open two-seater below the flagship SL. Yet the R170 was never intended to be merely a smaller SL. Its mission was to combine the charm of a classic roadster with the everyday practicality of a coupé.

The solution was as simple as it was ingenious. Instead of a roof, Mercedes- Benz developed a two-piece folding steel hardtop that disappeared completely into the boot in just 25 seconds. At the touch of a button, the Coupé became a roadster—and back again. Known as the Vario-Roof, the system effectively gave owners two cars in one and quickly became the defining feature of the model. Before long, numerous manufacturers would follow Mercedes-Benz’s lead.

Stylistically, the SLK followed its own path. Chief Designer Bruno Sacco drew inspiration from the larger SL, interpreting its design language in a far more compact and athletic form. Short overhangs, a long bonnet and a cockpit positioned well to the rear created the classic proportions of a traditional roadster, while the broad front end and distinctive grille gave the smallest Mercedes sports car a confident presence of its own.

Initially, the engine range consisted of supercharged four-cylinder units and refined V6 engines. The greatest attention, however, centred on the SLK 230 Kompressor. Its mechanically driven supercharger delivered performance previously associated with much larger engines. A comprehensive facelift in 2000 brought updated styling, revised engines and numerous technical refinements.

Customers embraced the concept with remarkable enthusiasm. The SLK captured the spirit of its time and quickly became one of the world’s most successful roadsters. By the end of production in 2004, well over 300,000 examples had been built. Mercedes-Benz had demonstrated that driving pleasure, comfort and everyday usability could coexist beneath a folding steel roof. The R 170 was never simply a smaller SL—it established an entirely new model family of its own.