Quote:
nberry said:
the their conclusion was quite a surprise. They went into the test believing the S will wipe the floor with the SLK. However after several test they determined that the SLK was better in every way. Clearly straight line performance was in favor of the SLK but when it came to handling and overalll road performance the SLK was the clear winner.
So surprised were the tester they took the S in for a check up and were told that the car was out of alignment and required a brake adjustment. They drove the S again after all the adjustments and still determined that the SLK was the better car.
Maybe MB is getting its act together. Sorry RC, you may want to reconsider your S purchase.
BTW the also tested the 997 Cab and loved it.
I drove both, the SLK 55 AMG and the Boxster S and although the SLK 55 AMG has a much better straight line performance, engine/exhaust sound is absolutely great and the automatic tranny is a treat, the SLK 55 AMG is even inferior to the SLK 32 AMG regarding handling capabilities. I really don't understand how these guys from SCI could claim something different. Or speaking about traction, the ESP came on all the time when driving hard, to be fast in the SLK 55 AMG you have to turn it off. And due to the heavy engine and the light rear, it is no fun at all. Unless you like heavy understeer followed by a sudden and nasty oversteer.
But I guess you drove them both too, so no need to tell you.
The Boxster S is the best choice for handling and fun on twisty roads. The traction is absolutely flawless.
The SLK 55 AMG is more of a "do-it-all" car, it provides a lot of fun but it can't really satisfy a very sporty driver because once the traction and the numb steering get in your way, you won't be satisfied.
The only thing I agree with is that the Boxster S hasn't enough power, a sin which Porsche will have to pay for sooner or later. They can't ignore the markets completely and most people, including some car magazine journalists, prefer brutal power over slick handling and traction.
And finally, the Boxster S has won almost all comparison tests so far, so I really don't care.
BTW: the Boxster S is my wife's car.