Does the SLK55 r172 command the same 'bulletproof' status?

[AlexNJ89]

Hey guys,

I'm interested in both models and I was drawn to the r171 because it was AMG fun and drama but without the potential big repair bills.

I'm also considering the r172 and was wondering if it was another complicated AMG engine or if it is just as maintainable as the r171?

Thanks!

[elanfan]

The R172 is fugly by comparison. Can’t answer the rest sorry.

[WJNB]

elanfan said:

The R172 is fugly by comparison. Can’t answer the rest sorry.

Only ugly in YOUR eyes so your statement is one of a personal view not a fact.
Suspect the OP has his own personal view.

[elanfan]

Correct well worked out.

[clarki]

Mine is 4 in a couple of months and its been fine. Wearing its miles and age well too. No creases on the seats, no rattles and the paintwork has resisted roadrash reasonably well. Have it serviced at an indie, merc is just a rip off, and its usually £400/£600 depending on what's required.

Love it and it feels like a special car. Replaced a 981 Boxster S that was deffo a better car, but just no excitement, that didn't last long. No idea what i'd replace the merc with, could be a keeper tbh.

Like the rarity also. Both models (171 and 172) seem to get nice attention. I'd agree the 171 is a better looking car, but the interior/spec of the 172 is a fair step up.

[WJNB]

clarki said:

Both models (171 and 172) seem to get nice attention. I'd agree the 171 is a better looking car, but the interior/spec of the 172 is a fair step up.

Again it's a personal thing but I'm glad I spent time in a friends R171 because I found the cabin a bit of a squeeze with minimal (passenger) legroom, very very plasticy & an uncomfortable neck draught even with the mesh deflector in place. It was the auto 200 model & thus gutless. To my eyes somebody gave up designing it when they got to the rear of the cabin area the B post & quickly gave up & foreshortened the backside.
Bought a R172 the interior of which is more spacious & made of nicer materials. I like it & not bothered what others think.
Alloys are crap though & within 40k miles Mercedes were decent enough to replace all 4, 2 at half -price two at less 30%. 10k miles later they are all showing signs of decay. Will powder coat them in one colour & NO WAY faff about with diamond cutting/lacquer etc.