I think the thread is a little confusing in that we seem to be talking about cars over two generations.
Roberto: I didn't realize you were comparing the SLK230/320 with the 986/s. In this comparison I'd agree that there is nothing sporting about the older SLK but woud agree with
myeboxsters that the AMG engine in the older car certainly improves the acceleration. However it's the handling and braking that makes the older SLK a dog.
Shellbmb: If you're talking about the Z3M, I can't comment from personal experience but did review the Z4M here, and some folks with Z3M experience commented:
http://986forum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5598
TVC15: Although different than the Z4, I don't think the styling of the new SLK is any less controversial and you love it or hate it. IMHO it looks great from the front, phenomenal from the back and not so much from the side. My primary beef with the interior styling is the orange creamsicle lighting scheme, with the white LEDs ala the 987 combined with orange backlit buttons, like a BMW.
Perfectlap: The Porsche gets more compliments, but raising and lowering the hard-top of the Merc always draws a crowd due to the intricate 475 step process executed with German precision. However, I get more "hmm...this is a nice ride you have" comments from passengers in the Merc. I think people who haven't driven in a Porsche before are expecting more of a luxury car environment than the brutal assault on the senses that driving in the Box can be, or maybe they're just too scared to get a word out.