Used Mercedes-Benz SLC for sale nearSouthend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 38.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 50
Average Price: Around £15,600

Mercedes-Benz SLC Mk1 (2016-2020) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Folding metal roof adds security	Boot space shrinks with the roof down
Glamorous looks	Dated and cramped interior
Compact and easy to live with	Neither sporty nor especially comfortable

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016-2020) is a compact two-seat roadster with a folding metal hardtop, rear-wheel drive, and a more relaxed character than sharper rivals. Renamed from the SLK in 2016, it offers a slice of Mercedes glamour at a more accessible price point. The folding metal roof provides coupe-like refinement and security when raised, whilst allowing proper open-air motoring when lowered. With the roof closed, boot capacity is 335 litres; with it open, this reduces to 225 litres. The SLC is reasonably practical for a compact roadster, though taller drivers may find the cabin tight.

The SLC is more of a relaxed cruiser than a sharp sports car, with a refined ride at speed but potential jitteriness on poor roads. Early versions offered a wider engine range, including the SLC 180 and SLC 250d diesel, whilst later Final Edition models were limited to the SLC 200, SLC 300, and Mercedes-AMG SLC 43. The SLC 200 achieves around 40.4mpg with the manual gearbox, whilst real-world driving typically yields around 30mpg. The Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 offers serious performance with its 3.0-litre V6 but remains more of a compact GT than a true sports car. Airscarf, Mercedes' neck-level heating system, is a standout feature for open-top driving in cooler weather.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable roadster with the Mercedes badge, those valuing the practicality of a folding metal hardtop, and drivers prioritising refinement over sharp handling.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting sharp driving dynamics comparable to a Porsche 718 Boxster or BMW Z4, those requiring a spacious interior, or buyers seeking the latest infotainment technology.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the SLC if: You're seeking a stylish, comfortable roadster with the Mercedes badge, value the practicality of a folding metal hardtop, and prioritise refinement over sharp handling.

Consider alternatives if: You want sharp driving dynamics comparable to a Porsche 718 Boxster or BMW Z4, require a spacious interior, or seek the latest infotainment technology.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016-2020) occupies a unique position in the compact roadster market. Whilst it lacks the sharp handling of the Porsche 718 Boxster and the driver engagement of the BMW Z4, it offers distinctive charm through its folding metal hardtop and glamorous styling. The dated interior and infotainment system are notable drawbacks compared to rivals, and it's neither as sporty nor as comfortable as some competitors. However, as a stylish, refined used roadster with the prestige Mercedes-Benz badge and practical folding roof, the SLC remains an appealing choice for those prioritising comfort and elegance over outright performance. Values have softened, making it an increasingly attractive proposition for buyers seeking open-top motoring with a touch of luxury.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz SLC Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.