Mercedes-Benz SLK230 (R170)(1:87, Herpa)
- Mercedes-Benz SLK230 (R170) (from 1996)
- Herpa
- 1:87
- Showcase model / No engine
- plastic
- white
- 012188-003
- Not specified
- Not specified
- Not for sale
Compact roadster with folding roof: classification and historical context
This model is based on the Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 (R170), the first SLK of its line. This generation is known in the literature as the R170, 1st generation and was built from 1996–2004. There wasn't a direct predecessor; thematically the Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 (R170) ties back to earlier compact Mercedes roadsters like the 190 SL, but it was clearly positioned under the big SL. The styling came together in the era of design chief Bruno Sacco; publications around that time also mention designers like Michael Mauer in connection with roadster projects. To place the model year 1996 in time: the Summer Olympics were in Atlanta, the Nintendo 64 hit Japan, and the Spice Girls released “Wannabe.” I’m just throwing those in to give you a feel for the era. The Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 (R170) landed right when people were craving compact, reasonably usable roadsters again.
Technical specs and highlights of the original
Key feature of the Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 (R170) was the “Vario-roof,” an electro-hydraulically operated folding hardtop that turned the car from coupe to open roadster in about 25 seconds. The SLK 230 used a supercharged inline-four engine (M111) with 2.3 liters (140.4 in³) displacement. Output was around 142 kW (190.4 hp; 193 PS) and about 280 Nm (206.6 lb-ft) of torque, mated either to a 5-speed automatic or, later, a 6-speed manual. Top speed was roughly 240 km/h (149.1 mph), and the 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) sprint happened in well under eight seconds. The suspension used MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear axle; there were disc brakes all around. Electronic stability programs, ABS and multiple airbags were standard or optional depending on the build year. Dimensions: length approx. 3.99 m (13 ft 1 in), width about 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in), wheelbase around 2.40 m (7 ft 10.5 in). A facelift in 2000 brought updated bumpers, lights and interior tweaks. The R171 replaced it in 2004. The Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 (R170) is thus a late‑90s technical representative, and its folding steel roof made a big mark in the roadster segment.
The 1/87 Herpa model: visible details
The pictured model is a 1/87 scale Herpa piece from Modelly member “modelmax.” The miniature is made of plastic; body and fittings are neatly injection-molded and deburred. The photos show a white paintjob with no stripes. The front mimics the SLK’s slightly arrow-shaped contour; clear-look headlights and red-tinted taillights recreate the lighting graphics in a simplified way. The proportions — short overhangs, a pronounced shoulder line, a low-sweeping rear — are faithfully captured. Notably, the right door is open in the photos, revealing a black interior: two bucket seats, a textured dash and a suggested steering wheel show it’s a two-seater. The roof is in the coupe position, consistent with the original’s steel hardtop. The wheels are silver printed and resemble multi-spoke factory rims; no specific wheel maker can be identified at this scale. Bumpers have subtle seams, the grille is darkened; the Mercedes star is only suggested, which is expected at this size. Overall the miniature shows the shape and size of the real car well and offers convincing detail for a 1/87 representation.
Collector perspective, scale and context
For collectors it’s important that this is a 1/87 Herpa model, the common H0 scale that integrates nicely into model railway layouts. Plastic construction keeps the model light and robust while allowing fine surface detail on doors, hoods and bumpers. In Modelly member “modelmax”’s collection this model stands out thanks to the light body color that highlights the SLK’s lines. The open door in the photos gives a peek into the interior, showing that the maker didn’t just focus on the outside but also suggested key cockpit elements. The body is one piece with fitted glazing; transparent windows let you see seats, the center tunnel and steering wheel. The tires have a slight tread, and the rims are neatly printed. There are no license plates or specific decals visible, which makes the model handy as a neutral roadster in a city scene. Paint and plastic have an even sheen; panel gaps are clean. All in all it’s a sober, very recognizable small-scale take on the compact roadster and a practical addition for collectors who want the Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 (R170) in that size.
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- Write a first comment about this model now!Any comment can be discussed by all members. It's like a chat.Mention other Modelly members by using @ in your message. They will then be informed automatically.