The Mercedes-Benz SLK Class and its high-performance 55 AMG edition is a sparkling gem in the automaker's lineup that too often seems to be overlooked. First and foremost: like any Mercedes-Benz, it's not cheap. The SLK has a base price of almost $48,000 and the 55 AMG is closer to $70,000. For 2011, there hasn't been any mention of the 55 AMG in the lineup. Interesting, but not surprising considering its price. The standard SLK remains featuring the hard-top folding roof.

Even though it's about double the price of a Mazda Miata, owners will also get that Mercedes exclusivity they're after. It's really a shame about the AMG model and without any sort of confirmation coming from the automaker, it's fair to assume that its now discontinued. It never sold in extraordinarily high numbers, but it was a wonderfully built machine. There should be a redesign coming up in the near future, so let's not totally rule out the permanent retirement of the AMG. After all, BMW recently released its redesigned Z4 that may soon get the famed M treatment.