Upgrades in all the right places.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLK R172 has been dealership lots for just about a year and Väth, the German tuning company, has already introduced a new upgrade program for the convertible. The new R172 tuning program offers just the right amount of upgrades to make the SLK 350 even more exciting without taking away from the car’s drivability.
The R172 tuning program from Väth focuses on everything from the exterior to the interior of the SLK 350. The standard front bumper was fitted with a black carbon fiber spoiler and lip to reduce lift at higher speeds. A subtle carbon fiber trunk spoiler was installed at the rear to add a touch of downforce to the back axle.
The 3.5-liter V-6 that powers the SLK was given a slight tune and new exhaust system for a better driving experience. The R172 tuning program includes a V35 engine electronics tune and removal of the top speed limiter. A full exhaust system including stainless steel headers, double flow muffler, and dual 145 x 95 mm tips was installed by Väth. The result was an output of 330 horsepower and 288 lb-ft. of torque, and a top speed of 167 mph.
A new set of wheels and upgraded suspension help transfer the increased power to the pavement. The R172 tuning program offers new three-spoke Väth forged wheels in a 8.5 x 20 front and 9.5 x 20 rear fitment with 235/30 ZR20 front and 265/25 ZR20 rear performance tires. Behind the wheels sits an adjustable suspension and new shock absorbers with variable hardness. The entire car can be lowered by 20 and 65 mm for a better center of gravity. Väth also installed new stainless steel braided brake lines and Castrol SRF brake fluid for better braking response.
The finishing touch from Väth was applied to the interior of the SLK 350. New black carbon trim pieces were installed and add a sense of sport to the cockpit.
The new Väth SLK 350 R172 tuning program is currently available as an entire package for 25,192 Euros (+/- 33,000 USD). Pricing for individual upgrades has not been released.
Väth Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 R172 Tuning Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 3.5 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-6
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Maximum Horsepower: 330 (230 kW)
Maximum Torque: 287.61 lb-ft. (390 Nm)
-Stainless steel exhaust system
-V35 ECU tune
Performance:
Top Speed: 167.15 mph (269 km/h)
Wheels, Tires, Suspension, and Brakes:
Wheels: Väth three-piece forged
Front Wheels: 8.5 x 20
Rear Wheels: 9.5 x 20
Front Tires: 235/30 ZR20
Rear Tires: 265/25 ZR20
Suspension: Adjustable height and hardness with new shock absorbers; 20 to 65 mm lower
Brakes: Stainless steel braided lines and Castrol SRF fluid
Exterior:
-Front black carbon fiber spoiler and lip
-Rear black carbon fiber trunk spoiler
Interior:
-Black carbon fiber trim
Väth Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 R172 Tuning Gallery
[Source: Väth]
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