A wave of the AMG wand adds two cylinders, nearly two liters of piston displacement, and 87 hp to Mercedes-Benz's new SLK sports car. That's enough to give the seven-ratio "speed shift" manu-matic transmission an excellent workout. Associated chassis upfits include firmer springs and dampers, larger brakes, and eighteen-inch wheels and tires. Naturally, the full alphabet soup of electronic helpers is standard equipment. To enhance their cornering grip, the AMG-stitched bucket seats have Alcantara inserts in the shoulder-support area.
On sale: Fall 2004
Price: $60,000 (est.)
Engine: 355-hp, 5.4-liter V-8
Bottom line: Spreading the AMG gospel throughout the Mercedes lineup.