Hi Craig,

We’re assuming from this that you’re predominantly looking at the smaller and more affordable SLK, rather than the much-grander SL. However, if you go for either of them, the key thing when buying used is to check the intricate roof-folding mechanism works. Both the SLK and the SL have fully automatic roofs, which can only be lowered from stationary (except on the very newest SLK models, which have been rebranded as SLC), and you need to watch for any sign of problems with the way the roofs retracts; it’s a process that should take around 22-25 seconds for the SLK, and around 16-18 seconds for the bigger SL.

The SL is a much older model line than the SLK/SLC, with a history dating back to 1954, but it didn’t gain a folding metal roof until 2001’s fifth-generation car, codenamed ‘R230’. Both the R230 and its successor, the R231 (the current model SL, still in production) are fitted with powerful V6, V8 and V12 petrol engines, so they’re not cheap to own and run – but they do give a feelgood-factor that few convertibles can match.

The SLK is much more attainable and comes in three different generations with the earliest cars launching in 1996. With the exception of some rare AMG models that had V8s, the SLK is predominantly powered by four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines; there’s also a diesel model, if you’re on a budget, which will either be badged SLK 250 CDI, SLK 250 d or SLC 250 d. The name-change from SLK to SLC took place in 2016. SLKs/SLCs are not the greatest things to drive in their class, but they are enjoyable year-round convertibles nevertheless.

Neither SLK/SLC nor SL are known for being terribly unreliable, so buy a good one with plenty of provenance (service history and/or receipts for maintenance) and low mileage, and you’ll be very happy with it.