THE first mass production car to have a folding metal roof was the first Mercedes SLK back in 1996 and I remember how much I enjoyed driving it on Spanish mountain roads.
That first model lasted until 2004 when it was replaced by a much sleeker, sharper-nosed design.
The only drawback with all of them is that the roof folds down into the boot, and drastically cuts luggage space - but it’s true of all such cars.
Originally, only a rather rough 2.3-litre supercharged four with 190bhp was available, but later 2.0-litre 163bhp and 3.2 V6 218bhp units were added. After 2004 came supercharged 1.8 and normally aspirated 3.5 and 5.4-litre engines.
Power goes to the rear wheels through a five or six speed automatic gearbox, and performance is effortless.
Never buy without the proper service history - always very important with any prestige car.
Handling balance is excellent, road-holding always safe and sure and ride superb. And of course, that metal roof means that its as quiet as a saloon and just as secure.
Interior
The roof is quick up and down, and most models have added equipment on top of the standard spec.
Expect leather, cruise control, aircon, traction control, front and side airbags, and even electric seats and parking sensors.
FAST FACTS
Mercedes SLK
Price: Pay around £13,200 for an ’05 05-reg auto, or £20,000 for an ’07 07-reg Sport auto.
Mechanical: 163bhp, 1,798cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving the rear wheels via a 5-speed automatic gearbox
Max speed: 147mph
0-62mph: 7.6 seconds
Combined mpg: 36
Insurance group: 16
CO2 emissions: 211g/km
BIK rating: 28%
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: BMW Z3/Z4, Audi TT