2000 Mercedes-Benz Vision SLA Concept

The SLK/SLC Roadster is sorely missed from the Mercedes-Benz range, having been a part of the line-up since the R170 generation’s introduction in 1996. With that car being such an enormous hit at the time, Mercedes wondered how else it could use its two-seat roadster template.

Upfront Star Shot Mercedes-Benz Vision SLA Concept

During January 2000’s Detroit motor show, the manufacturer presented its Mercedes-Benz Vision SLA Concept. Based on the original A-Class, the sporty roadster measured just 3.77m long and carried design features such as a prominent nose on a forward opening bonnet that would eventually make production on the SLR McLaren, as well as the second-generation (R171) SLK.

Powering the 950kg SLA was a 1.9-litre, four-cylinder engine (M166) producing 123bhp, linked to a five-speed manual transmission with sexy open gate. The benchmark sprint to 62mph was completed in 7.9 seconds, and the SLA’s top speed was a claimed 130mph. The lightweight bodywork was made of aluminium and high-grade plastic, and inside were two carbon fibre bucket seats that also made production on the SLR.