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: 32.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.8 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 70
Average Price: Around £15,000

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 received revised styling, updated equipment, and a new steering wheel. 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 down, 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 some body-roll and heavy steering that lacks feedback. Earlier 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. One standout feature is Airscarf, Mercedes-Benz's neck-level heating system, which blows warm air around your neck and shoulders when the roof is down. The SLC's infotainment system feels dated by modern standards, though later cars included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable used roadster with premium badge appeal, those who value the security and refinement of a folding metal hardtop, and drivers prioritising open-air motoring with coupe-like practicality.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting sharp handling and driver involvement, those requiring a modern infotainment system, buyers seeking maximum comfort over potholed roads, or drivers needing substantial boot space with the roof down.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the SLC if: You're seeking a stylish, comfortable used roadster with premium badge appeal, value the security and refinement of a folding metal hardtop, and prioritise open-air motoring with coupe-like practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You want sharp handling and driver involvement, require a modern infotainment system, seek maximum comfort over potholed roads, or need substantial boot space with the roof down.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016-2020) occupies a unique position in the compact roadster market. Whilst it lacks the sharp handling of a Porsche 718 Boxster or BMW Z4, and the modern interior of an Audi TT, the SLC's folding metal hardtop, glamorous styling, and Mercedes-Benz badge provide distinctive appeal. It's a more relaxed, comfortable cruiser than its rivals, making it ideal for those prioritising refinement and open-air elegance over outright performance. The SLC's compact size and relatively affordable used prices make it an attractive proposition for buyers seeking a stylish roadster without the premium costs of a Porsche or BMW.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz SLC Review

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