In the 2000, Mercedes-Benz decided to do a facelift for its small coupe-cabriolet SLK.
In the same time, it throw on the market the SLK 32 AMG version, which was a different kind of roadster. Compared to it other siblings, it looked just like a trim level. It had 17” light-alloy wheels fitted as standard, oval pipes in the rear and bigger front and rear bumper. On top of that, it added a small lip on top of the trunk lid. But the differences were higher than that.
Inside the cabin there were two bucket seats and a new instrument cluster. Some interior decorations could have suggest that is just a trim level.

The rear changes were underneath the vehicle. In front, there was a 3.2-liter V6 engine supercharged by a Japanese IHI helical unit, unlike his other siblings that had a Root type. The new unit only operated when the driver hit the gas. It is barely noticeable when it pumped in or not. The broad engine torque which was between 2200 rpm and 6100 rpm means that it could pull hard and long.

The 5-GTronic gearbox was recalibrated and tuned for the SLK 32 AMG and it was the only gearbox available. It also had a manual changing program, but enhanced by the AMG. A different final drive ratio was available from special AMG option list, tuned for high speed. The standard model was better for daily use, on speeds up to 250 kph (155 mph).