MERCEDES BENZ SLK 55 AMG (R172) 2012-2016 Photos, engines & full specs

The German carmaker introduced the most powerful version of the third-generation SLK in 2012, fitted with a mighty 5.5-liter V8 under the hood, but that wasn't all!

The SLK began as a sporty-looking roadster with a retractable hard-top that could completely disappear in a mere 20 seconds behind the cabin, but it was powered by low-powered engines. Meanwhile, the smallest roadster in Mercedes-Benz's lineup evolved. Apart from other AMG-treated versions, the 2012 version shined at its best when it appeared on the market.

Mercedes-Benz managed to hide the humble appearance of the SLK's first generation. Instead, with the AMG-tuned version, the 2012 version came very boldly. Its front fascia sported a reversed trapezoidal grille crossed by a chromed horizontal slat. Underneath, in the lower bumper, the A-shaped grille was flanked on the sides by two scoops that cooled the front brakes and hosted the LED daytime running lights as well. From its profile, the multi-spoke AMG alloy wheels and the functional exhaust vent on the front fenders confirmed the car's sports-oriented character. At the back, a quad exhaust system flanked the rear diffuser placed under the bumper.

The cabin was fit for two occupants hosted in high-bolstered seats separated by a tall center console. In front of them, the dashboard featured four round vents, an infotainment screen above the center stack, and two individual clusters for the dials.

Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz installed a 5.5-liter, naturally aspirated V8 provided by AMG. It was paired as standard with a seven-speed automatic transmission that sent the power to the rear wheels.