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Originally Posted by Dolebludger  I don't want to deate any issue, but a 280 equipped with the seven speed auto is (IMO) going to have an easier time on steep grades than one with a manual. In addition to the fact that the auto has one more gear to help it out, I've never seen an automatic transmission that is so responsive to demands placed on it. It is also efficient, as fuel efficiency numbers and performance numbers published by MB are he same for it and the manual. It is, to say the least, not your usual slush box. Though it does cost more, I do recommend the auto transmission in ANY SLK. |
I'm afraid we'll have to agree to disagree on this one. Had the SLK only been available with the 7G transmission, I would have passed. I found the 7G noticeably less responsive than for example VW's dual clutch DSG system. I can see how those delays could be a problem on steep mountain roads, especially if the transmission is left in automatic mode. By the time the transmission has figured out that it may be better to go to the next lower gear at a steep incline, you'll have already lost some of that valuable momentum. To compensate for that, the 350's extra torque will definitely be helpful.