Everyone knows that Mercedes builds luxury sedans that are the standard of the world. Few, however, know that Mercedes-Benz is a major player in the international racing scene and that perhaps the most formidable and sought after sports car in the world today is Mercedes' SLR McLaren, with a zero to 60 time of under 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 207 mph. Of course, trying to buy one is another story since the entire production run has been pre-sold at a price substantially above its $452,000 base price.

Imagine my surprise when a new Orion blue Mercedes-Benz SLK350 showed up in my driveway, bearing a strong resemblance to the SLR.

The SLK was first introduced in 1997 to compete head to head with the Porsche Boxster and BMW Z3. Its most unique feature was the retractable hardtop roof, which at the touch of a button became a convertible in about 30 seconds.

I never much cared for the look of the original boxy SLK and its performance was ho-hum at best, with the exception of the expensive 349-horsepower AMG version.

Completely redesigned for 2005, the roadster's new look is a huge improvement over the old model's frumpy appearance. Sleek lines and smooth curves have been worked to resemble the SLR, with a sloping hood that angles all the way down to reach the recognizable Mercedes' three-point star splitting two large grill slits on either side. The short rear deck is now rounded, including new dual-exhaust features, making the SLK drop-dead gorgeous from any angle. Few cars have such complete styling. Like the original SLK roadster, the '05 model features a retractable hardtop that now takes up less trunk space than before.

Equally attractive is the SLK's interior. My test model featured black leather seats with silver trim elements. Up to five different interior color combinations, including red and blue, are available to complement no less than fifteen exterior color choices with only black, white or red not costing extra. The sculpted dashboard blends into the door panels for a well-finished cockpit appearance.

The two-seat cockpit exudes the luxury appointments expected from the Mercedes brand. All materials, fit and finish are upscale and exceptional. The leather-wrapped steering wheel features numerous buttons for functional operations. On the left side are computer buttons that allow the driver to scroll through various functions, with readouts on the dash for mileage, distances, temperatures and numerous others. Buttons on the right side control the phone and radio volume. While Mercedes has backed off on the complexity of its electronics, the radio functions continue to be more complicated than necessary. There are no less than eight buttons to adjust the sound, select radio bands or CD. Its still way too complicated and can be distracting while driving.

One clever and innovative touch on our test SLK is what Mercedes calls Airscarf (a $950 option). With a small vent located on each headrest it blows warm air against your neck when the top is down and the weather is cool. Coupled with instant heated seats, it's perfect here this time of year in Arizona.

On the downside, while there is a bit more room the cockpit remains a very cozy place. I'm considerably taller than most drivers but I never found a comfortable driving position even with the power seat and power tilt-telescoping steering wheel adjusted to the max. And, don't expect to pack a lot stuff in the trunk either. There's just 9.8 cubic feet with the top up and 6.5 with the top down. You'll need to ship golf clubs and luggage ahead if you plan to take a drive vacation.

The SLK is offered two ways: the SLK350 ($46,220) features the new 3.5-liter all-aluminum, 268-horsepower V-6 mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or an optional first ever seven-speed automatic transmission for an additional $1,390. The SLK55 AMG version with a base price of $61,220 features a 5.5-liter 355-horsepower V-8. The AMG is only available with the seven-speed automatic transmission.

Available options include a premium package ($1,430) with items like speed-sensitive steering, dual climate zone, smartkey with remote operation for the top and rain-sensing wipers. The comfort package ($1,125) includes power seats and power tilt-telescoping steering wheel. Other options include wood interior trim, Bi-xenon headlamps, run-flat tires and upgraded audio systems.

Driving the SLK is a most pleasurable experience. While it feels heavy (and it is at formidable 3,280 lbs.) compared to other sports cars, you won't experience the pounding ride of models like the Nissan 350Z, BMW Z4 or Honda S2000. The brakes are fantastic, steering is sharp and cornering is flat and surefooted. It's not in the same performance class as a Corvette, Boxster or Dodge Viper, but it isn't meant to be. Think of the SLK as having a bias towards grand touring rather than a road course racer. Still, with 0-60 times of just 5.5 seconds the SLK is no slouch either.

Standard safety features are also impressive. They include antilock brakes, electronic stability program (ESP, clever), and dual integrated rollbars behind each seat and brake assist, which helps with panic stops. Passive safety features include two-stage front air bags, knee bags and seat-mounted side-impact head-thorax air bags.

The new SLK350 is everything and more the first generation SLK should have been. It's significantly improved in every way from safety, performance and just plain fun to drive. For those who can afford it the SLK is an expensive indulgence that won't disappoint and won't cost you the nearly the half-million dollar price tag of the SLR McLaren.

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