Just bought a 2005 Firemist red SLK roadster. 6 speed manual, 270 HP, 3100 lbs. Runs 0-60 in 5.3.
The build quality is excellent. My wife has had a 2000 SLK since it was new, only repair was a new battery after 4 years.

 

Congrats, I enjoyed a drive in SLK350 last year in a preproduction car. It's a solid ride like all MB and is more reliable than the competition. Did you consider a 987S? That would have been the only other car I'd consider in the price range. Personally, I like the folding hardtop but prefer the 987S looks. I'm curious about your comparion.