In 1996, Mercedes-Benz introduced their new roadster, the SLK. This new compact roadster featured a folding hardtop roof throughout the course of its production. The SLK was produced in three distinct generations, the R170 (1997-2004), the R171 (2005-2010), and the R172 (2011-2015). Available with a range of inline-4, V6, and V8 engines during the course of its life, the SLK could range from a relaxed daily driver to a roaring performance car. In 2015, Mercedes changed the name of the SLK to the SLC-Class.