► Exploring the family tree of Merc’s new SLC roadster
► Replaces SLK, which was Merc’s first metal drop top
► No entry-level 1.6-litre turbo for UK; AMG V6 instead
What’s my name again?
Mercedes SLC (2016)
Sadly the UK doesn’t get the new entry-level 1.6-litre turbo version of this born-again SLK, but we do get the new 362bhp AMG V6. Dynamic Select driving modes, optional handling package and sports exhaust promise extra thrills, new name aligns refreshed model with C-class. On sale April.
Heavy metal hardtop
Mercedes SLK (1996-2004)
The new SLC’s most direct progenitor is the original SLK. Launched 20 years ago, this was also the first Mercedes to feature a folding metal hardtop. Built to be Sporty, Light and Kurz (short), we guess two out of three ain’t bad – with it’s old-school recirculating ball steering it was never great to drive.
Oi, grandad!
Mercedes SL(C) (1971-1989)
The premier owner of the Mercedes SLC moniker was actually the coupe version of the R107 SL convertible. On sale for a decade, this slightly awkward-looking four-seater fixed-head had an unlikely side-line as a rally car, while its drop-top version remains Merc’s longest-lived model after the G-class.
Downsizing is nothing new
Mercedes 190 SL (1955-1963)
A blatant effort to cash in on the period cachet of the superstar 300 SL, the more affordable 190 SL had similar looks but ditched the spaceframe chassis for a cut-down saloon platform. Merc also lopped a couple of cylinders off the 300’s 3.0-litre straight-six to create the 190’s 1.9-litre four.