This unique Mercedes has been given a second lease of life and is now going up for auction.
The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is a unique car in many respects. It was created during the time when Mercedes was a shareholder in the McLaren group and the engine supplier for its Formula 1 cars. Gordon Murray himself, the creator of the best sports car in history, the McLaren F1, was responsible for its engineering. The name (SLR for "Sport Leich Rennsport") was inherited from the 1950s car in which Sir Sterling Moss won, among other events, the Italian Mille Miglia. Now, a unique example of a modern SLR, restored and modified by McLaren Special Operations, will be auctioned in Las Vegas.
Under the hood sits a powerful supercharged V8 engine , originally rated at 626 hp. A five-speed AMG SpeedShift R automatic transmission transfers power to the wheels, delivering top-of-the-line performance (for the 2000s). The icing on the cake is a new, superb-sounding exhaust system, with its tips positioned on the sides of the car just behind the front wheels. This new system is nearly 16 kg lighter than the original and unlocks an additional 40 hp. Rigidity is provided by a carbon-aluminum monocoque structure , while the body, with new aerodynamic elements, now generates significantly less drag. The car features new MSO-branded wheels, which are also lighter than the originals and contribute further to the overall weight reduction of 80 kg.
Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren coupe 2006 / press materialsThe interior has been completely transformed by specialists from Woking and is decorated in navy blue. The carbon fiber bucket seats are trimmed in leather with thickly woven fabric on the seat and back. In the trunk, you'll find two touring bags made from the same materials and in the same style. The stereo system delivers sound from a BOSE Premium system , and a comfortable temperature is maintained by dual-zone, enhanced-performance air conditioning.
Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren coupe 2006 / press materialsThis unique Mercedes model, whose design evokes the classic Silver Arrow models, has only traveled 7,677 km to date. The trip to the UK and the modifications described here weren't cheap, as the bill to the previous owner totals $280,000. The car will now be auctioned in Las Vegas by Broad Arrow Auctions , with an estimated final price of $600,000 to $700,000.
Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren coupe 2006 / press materials
