Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class (1996 - 2004)

Beautifully engineered electrically folding hard-top. High build quality. Galvanised body had 30-year Mobilo warranty (but don't bank on it). 4,014mm (13' 2") long x 1,712mm (5' 7") wide.

Revised for 2000 with three engine options: 1,995cc 165HP 200K, 2,295cc 195HP 230K and 3,199cc 220HP 320 V6, and either a six-speed manual or five-speed autobox on 200K and 320K. 230K remained auto only.

The 5-speed manual made it a much better, sportier car than the original UK 230K auto, with 200K more reasonably priced, from £26,390. 320 six-speed manual goes like a real sports car at last and gets up to 120 mph quite quickly.