Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren: Difference between revisions

{{short description|Grand tourer jointly developed by Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive}}

{{about|the grand tourer|the 1950s sports racing car|Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}

{{Use British English|date=October 2017}}

{{Infobox automobile

| sp =uk

| name = Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

| image = Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (8615973055) (cropped).jpg

| manufacturer = {{ubl

|[[DaimlerChrysler]] (2003–2007)

|[[Daimler AG]] (2007–2010)

|[[McLaren Automotive]]

}}

| aka =

| production = 2003–2010<br>2,157 produced

| assembly = England: [[Surrey]], [[Woking]] ([[McLaren Technology Centre|McLaren Technology]])

| designer = [[Gordon Murray]]<ref name="Murray">{{cite web|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/sports-cars/gordon-murray-i-spent-six-months-flying-stuttgart-every-week|title=Gordon Murray: "I spent six months flying to Stuttgart every week"|date=31 July 2019}}</ref>

| class = [[Grand tourer]] ([[S-segment|S]])<!-- per [[WP:CARCLASS]], this should not be changed to "supercar or hypercar" -->

| body_style = 2-door [[coupé]]<br />2-door [[Roadster (automobile)|roadster]]<br />2-door [[speedster (automobile)|speedster]] (Stirling Moss)

| related =

| layout = [[Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout|Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive]]

| engine = {{convert|5439|cc|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} [[supercharged]] ''[[Mercedes-Benz M113 engine#M155 SLR|M155 SLR]]'' [[V8 engine|V8]]

| powerout = {{convert|626|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}<br>{{convert|780|Nm|0|abbr=on}};<br />

{{convert|650|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}<br>{{convert|820|Nm|0|abbr=on}} (722 Edition/722 S/Stirling Moss)

| transmission = 5-speed ''[[5G-Tronic]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]

| wheelbase = {{convert|2700|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| length = {{convert|4656|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| width = {{convert|1909|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| height = {{convert|1261|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br/> 2006–08: {{convert|1252|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| weight = {{convert|1743-1768|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://media.caranddriver.com/files/mercedes-benz-slr-mclarenmercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-specs.pdf|title=Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Road Test Car and Driver}}</ref><br />

{{convert|1791.5|kg|lb|abbr=on}} (SLR Roadster)<ref>

{{cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2008-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-roadster-first-drive-review|title=2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster First Drive Car and Driver|date=October 2007}}</ref>

| predecessor = [[Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR]] (spiritual)

| successor = [[Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG]]

| doors = [[Butterfly doors|Butterfly]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/news/eccentric-doors-your-guide-to-the-difference-between-butterfly-and-dihedral-113251.html|title=Eccentric Doors - Your Guide to The Difference Between Butterfly And Dihedral|date=28 November 2016}}</ref>

| model_years = 2004–2010

The '''Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren''' (C199 / R199 / Z199) is a [[grand tourer]] jointly developed by German automotive manufacturer [[Mercedes-Benz]] and British automobile manufacturer [[McLaren Automotive]] and sold from 2003 to 2010. When the car was developed, Mercedes-Benz owned 40 percent of the [[McLaren Group]] and the car was produced in conjunction between the two companies. The "SLR" name is an abbreviation for "Sport Leicht Rennsport" (Sport Light Racing), and was a homage to the [[Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR]] which served as the car's inspiration.<ref name=mcl>{{cite web|last=Chin |first=Wallace |title=Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Introduction |url=http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/cars/slr_introduction.htm |access-date=14 July 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080212010111/http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/cars/slr_introduction.htm |archive-date=12 February 2008 }}</ref> The car was offered in [[coupé]], [[roadster (automobile)|roadster]] and [[speedster (automobile)|speedster]] bodystyles, with the latter being a limited edition model.

==History==

At the 1999 [[North American International Auto Show]], Mercedes-Benz presented their Vision SLR concept, inspired both by the [[Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR]] ''[[Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR#Uhlenhaut Coupe & Racecar|Uhlenhaut Coupé]]'' of 1955,<ref name=mcl/> which was a modified Mercedes-Benz W196S race car, and the design of closed-wheel [[Formula One]] cars, a field in which they had prior experience from [[Mercedes-Benz in Formula One|Mercedes-Benz competing in Formula One]] in the past as constructor also winning back to back championships in their debut season [[1954 Formula One|1954]] then [[1955 Formula One|1955]]. Also during the jointly developed project of Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren in 2003 Mercedes-Benz acquiring 40 per cent ownership of McLaren Group competed in Formula One as partnership with the [[McLaren F1 Team|McLaren Formula One Team]], and were developing powertrains and electronics for McLaren's Formula One cars. The car was presented as ''"Tomorrow Silver Arrow"'' in a clear reference to the [[Silver Arrows]] of the golden age of Mercedes in competition during the fifties. Later that year, during the [[Frankfurt Motor Show]], a roadster version of the SLR concept was presented. The concept car was fitted with a 5.0-litre supercharged AMG V8 engine able to generate a power output of {{cvt|565|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} and {{cvt|720|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} of torque at 4,000 rpm, mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox with Touchshift control.

Wanting to bring the concept to production following its positive reception, Mercedes joined forces with their Formula One partner, McLaren, thus creating the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. Mercedes did the styling on the car while McLaren was fully responsible for everything else, from the design and the engineering to the manufacture and the testing of each car at the production line.<ref name="Murray"/> The production version of the car was unveiled to the general public on 17 November 2003 having some major design adjustments in respect of the initial design. In order to give the car the performance that Mercedes wanted, McLaren had to radically alter the concept for better weight distribution, including moving the engine almost a meter back and lowering the fuel tank.<ref name="Murray"/> Smaller adjustments included more complex vents on both sides of the car, a redesigned front with the three pointed star plunged in the nose and red tinted rear lights.

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren saw a production run of over six years. On 4 April 2008, Mercedes announced it would discontinue the SLR. The last of the coupés rolled off the production line at the end of 2010 and the roadster version was dropped in early 2009.

Due to the automatic gear box, [[front mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout|front mid-engine]] arrangement, and its driving characteristics, some automotive journalists classify the SLR McLaren as a [[grand tourer]].

When the car was still in prototype status, Mercedes used two bodies from [[TVR Cerbera]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.reddit.com/r/carporn/comments/k697dg/panorama_of_two_mercedes_slr_mclarens_alongside/ | title=Panorama of two Mercedes SLR McLarens alongside the two TVR Cerberas used as test mules during development | date=3 December 2020 }}</ref>

==Technical highlights==

===Brakes===

[[File:Mercedes-Benz, Techno-Classica 2018, Essen (IMG 9395).jpg|thumb|right|The carbon ceramic brakes used on the SLR]]

The SLR features [[Sensotronic Brake Control]], a type of [[brake-by-wire]] system.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autonews.com/article/20051205/SUB/51202036/m-b-cancels-by-wire-brake-system |title=M-B cancels by-wire brake system |publisher=Autonews.com |date=5 December 2005 |access-date=11 January 2015}}</ref> The [[disc brake|brake disc]]s are carbon-ceramic units and provide better stopping power and fade resistance than steel discs when operating under ideal working temperature. Mercedes-Benz claims these discs are fade resistant to {{convert|1200|°C|°F|sigfig=2}}. The front discs are internally vented and measure {{convert|370|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} in diameter; eight-piston [[Brake caliper|callipers]] are used. Rear discs are {{convert|360|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} in diameter with four-piston callipers. During wet conditions the callipers automatically skim the surface of the discs to keep them dry.

===Aerodynamics===

[[File:Mercedes SLR C199 2007 amk.jpg|thumb|The side profile of the SLR]]

The SLR features active aerodynamics; there is a spoiler mounted on the rear integral air brake flap. The spoiler increases downforce depending on its angle of elevation (angle of attack). At a set speed, the spoiler/brake automatically raises to 10&nbsp;degrees (15&nbsp;degrees in the 722 edition), when demanded via the driver's switch, the elevation can be increased to 30&nbsp;degrees (35&nbsp;degrees in the 722 edition) for increased rear downforce, at the cost of increased steady state drag. The car has a flat underbody and a rear diffuser for improved downforce. Due to this, there was no other place for the exhaust pipes to exit, other than the sides of the car, making it another unique feature of the SLR.

===Engine===

[[File:2005 Mercedes SLR engine 2.JPG|thumb|right|The SLR McLaren sports a hand-built 5.4-litre, supercharged all-aluminium V8 engine]]

The SLR has a {{convert|232|kg|lb|abbr=on}} hand-built {{convert|5439|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} [[supercharged]] all-[[aluminium alloy]], [[SOHC]] [[Multi-valve#Three-valve cylinder head|3 valves]] per cylinder 90° [[V8 engine]], with a [[Bore (engine)|bore]] and [[Stroke (engine)|stroke]] of {{convert|97x92|mm|2|abbr=on}} and with a [[compression ratio]] of 8.8:1. The engine is lubricated via a [[dry sump]] system. The [[Rotary screw compressor#Superchargers|Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger]] rotates at a maximum of 23,000&nbsp;rpm and produces {{convert|0.9|bar|psi|abbr=on}} of boost.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Pettitt|first1=Joe|title=Sport Compact Turbos & Blowers|date=2004|publisher=CarTech Inc|isbn=9781884089886|page=22|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WaxglIaVPh4C&q=mercedes+slr+mclaren+supercharger+rpm&pg=PA22|access-date=2 December 2017|language=en}}</ref> The compressed air is then cooled via two [[intercooler]]s. The engine generates a maximum power output of {{convert|626|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 6,500&nbsp;rpm and maximum torque of {{convert|780|Nm|0|abbr=on}} between 3,250 and 5,000&nbsp;rpm.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.slr-uk.com/range_performance.php?model=slr |title=Mercedes SLR McLaren - Model Range - Performance |publisher=Slr-uk.com |access-date=10 November 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716092244/http://www.slr-uk.com/range_performance.php?model=slr |archive-date=16 July 2011 }}</ref>

McLaren took the original concept car designed by Mercedes and moved the engine {{convert|1|m|in|1}} behind the front bumper, around {{convert|50|cm|in|1}} behind the front axle. They also optimised the design of the centre firewall.

===Transmission===

[[File:IAA 2003 056 - Flickr - Axel Schwenke.jpg|thumb|The SLR utilised the AMG SPEEDSHIFT R automatic transmission]]

The SLR uses the [[5G-TRONIC|AMG SPEEDSHIFT R]] five-speed automatic transmission with three manual modes. For durability, Mercedes selected a five-speed transmission rather than their seven-speed transmission which was more complex and used more parts.

===Performance===

The car uses [[carbon-fibre reinforced plastic]] (CFRP) construction in an attempt to keep the weight low. Despite CFRP materials, the total curb weight is {{convert|1750|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}. The SLR could attain a top speed of {{cvt|207|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on|order=}}.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Winfield|first=Barry|date=2004-02-01|title=First Drive: 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15133255/2005-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-first-drive-review|access-date=2021-12-12|website=Car and Driver|language=en-US}}</ref>

* ''[[Car and Driver]]'' achieved a 0 to {{convert|60|mph|0|abbr=on}} acceleration time of 3.4&nbsp;seconds, and a [[Dragstrip|{{convert|1/4|mi|m|0}}]] time of 11.2&nbsp;seconds at {{convert|130|mph|0|abbr=on}}. ''Car and Driver'' also achieved top gear acceleration {{convert|30|-|50|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on}} and {{convert|50|-|70|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on}} times of 1.7&nbsp;and 2.4&nbsp;seconds, which are the fastest ever recorded by the magazine in a production car. The SLR also pulled 0.97&nbsp;[[g-force|g]] on the skidpad. The magazine suggested that the times may be even lower if temperatures were lower.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/content/download/99780/1294937/version/1/file/CD01_SLR.pdf |publisher=Car and Driver |date=January 2005 |title=Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (road test summary) }}{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

* ''Motor Trend'' tested the SLR and achieved a 0-{{convert|60|mph|0|abbr=on|order=flip}} acceleration time of 3.3 seconds in April 2006.

[[Road & Track|''Road And Track'']] tested the car in their [http://arquivo.pt/wayback/20090721052726/http://www.roadandtrack.com/assets/download/0507_slr_data_panel.pdf July 2005 Road Test] and reached {{convert|60|mi/h|km/h|0|abbr=on|order=flip}} from a standstill in 3.5&nbsp;seconds. The 0 to {{convert|100|mph||0|abbr=on|order=flip}} sprint was achieved in 7.5&nbsp;seconds and a {{convert|1/4|mi|m|0}} run was completed in 11.5&nbsp;seconds at {{convert|126|mph|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}.

==Variants==

{{More citations needed section|date=November 2018}}

===722 Edition===

{{multiple image

| align =

| direction =

| width = 200

|image1= Mercedes-Benz SLR-McLaren 722.JPG

|image2= Mercedes-Benz SLR-McLaren 722 Coupé Rear-view.JPG

|caption2= Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition

|image3= Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition cockpit.jpg

|caption3= The 722 Edition had an Interior with carbon fibre trim

}}

A new version of the SLR was introduced in 2006, called the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition. The "722" refers to the victory by [[Stirling Moss]] and his co-driver [[Denis Jenkinson]] in a [[Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR]] with the starting number 722 (indicating a start time of 7:22&nbsp;a.m.) at the [[1955 Mille Miglia|Mille Miglia]] in 1955.

The "722 Edition" includes a modified version of the engine used in the SLR generating a power output of {{convert|650|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 6,500&nbsp;rpm and {{convert|820|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 4,000&nbsp;rpm. 19-inch light-alloy wheels were used to reduce unsprung mass, while modifications were also made to the suspension, with a stiffer [[shock absorber|damper]] setup and {{convert|10|mm|in|abbr=on}} lower ride height introduced for improved handling. Larger {{convert|390|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} diameter front brakes and a revised front air dam and rear diffuser were fitted.<ref name="autoblog">{{cite web |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/10/mercedes-benz-slr-722-boosts-performance-honors-past/ |title=Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 boosts performance, honors past |first=Alex |last=Nunez |date=10 July 2006 |access-date=10 July 2007 |publisher=Autoblog }}</ref>

Other exterior changes include red "722" badging, harking back to the original 722 racer, black tinted tail lights and headlamps. The interior has carbon fibre trim and black leather upholstery combined with [[Alcantara (material)|Alcantara]].

The SLR 722 can accelerate from 0 to {{convert|100|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} in 3.6&nbsp;seconds, 0 to {{convert|200|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} in 10.2&nbsp;seconds and {{convert|300|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} in 27.6&nbsp;seconds, and can attain a top speed of {{convert|337|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, faster than the standard Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. Production of the 722 Edition was limited to 150 units.

===Roadster===

[[File:Paris - Bonhams 2016 - Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster - 2005 - 003.jpg|thumb|Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster]]

A roadster version of the SLR went on sale in September 2007. It uses the same engine as its coupé sibling, generating a power output of {{convert|626|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}, to propel it to a top speed of {{convert|334|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} and a 0 to {{convert|100|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} acceleration time of 3.6&nbsp;seconds.

However, as a convertible, the roadster was burdened with extra weight, which affected performance and handling. The Roadster's roof is made from a "newly developed material" and does not take the form of a folding metal arrangement, as is common on many modern cars. Following a manual unlatching, it takes ten seconds to fold away electrically. According to an official Mercedes document, the cabin of the roadster is capable of allowing conversation between driver and passenger up to a speed of {{convert|200|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} with the roof retracted.<ref>{{Cite web |title=199 series SLR McLaren High Performance Sports Car, 2004 - 2009 |url=https://mercedes-benz-publicarchive.com/marsClassic/en/instance/ko/199-series-SLR-McLaren-High-Performance-Sports-Car-2004---2009.xhtml?oid=453313 |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=M@RS – The Digital Archives of Mercedes-Benz Classic |language=en}}</ref> The SLR Roadster was aimed to compete against other luxurious sports cars such as the [[Pagani Zonda]] F Roadster.<ref name="edmunds-roadster">{{cite web |url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=121333 |title=Goodwood Goodies: SLR McLaren Roadster |date=20 June 2007 |access-date=25 June 2007 |publisher=Edmunds }}</ref>

===Roadster 722 S (2009)===

[[File:Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 Roadster 1Y7A6042.jpg|left|thumb|Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S roadster]]

The Roadster variant of the 722 Edition was unveiled at the [[Frankfurt Motor Show#2007|2007 Frankfurt Motor Show]]. The roadster has the same engine and suspension setup as the coupé along with the folding roof mechanism shared with the standard SLR roadster. It can accelerate to {{convert|100|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} from standstill in 3.1&nbsp;seconds and has top speed of {{convert|334|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.

The model went on sale in January 2009 and production was limited to 150 units.<ref>{{cite web|last=Abuelsamid |first=Sam |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/29/mercedes-benz-reveals-slr-mclaren-roadster-722-s/ |title=Mercedes-Benz reveals SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=29 September 2008 |access-date=1 October 2010}}</ref>

{{clear}}

===722 GT (2007)===

[[File:Mercedes SLR 722 GT.jpg|thumb|right|The SLR 722 GT at the [[Goodwood Festival of Speed]]]]

The 722 GT is a racing version of the SLR 722 which was developed for a one-make racing series called the SLR Club. The cars were built by [[Ray Mallock Ltd.]] following requests from enthusiasts with approval from Mercedes-Benz. The car has new wider bodywork to accommodate {{convert|18|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} [[OZ Group|OZ]] racing wheels. The front grill vents are removed and larger, free flowing air extractors sit on the hood and flank the side of the car. The rear now has a fixed racing wing and diffuser.

Under the body, the car has shed {{convert|398|kg|lb|abbr=on}} of weight and reduced its dry weight to {{convert|1390|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}. The engine remains in relatively stock specification but now generates a power output of {{convert|680|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} and {{convert|830|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} of torque at 1.75&nbsp;bar (175&nbsp;kPa) of boost and is equipped with a new racing filter and exhaust system. The car has a modified Eibach racing suspension with a modified stabiliser at the front that improves handling. An adjustable wheel camber along with shock absorbers with variable compression and rebound settings allows the suspension setup to be configured for different race tracks. New 18-inch [[OZ Group|OZ]] racing wheels with central locking nuts allow for faster tyre changes while a pneumatic jack system aids further in the process. The stock carbon ceramic braking system has been replaced with an [[FIA]] approved racing brake system with steel brake discs having a modified cooling system and balance that ensure improved stopping power. The transmission from the standard car is retained but is now configured for race use.

Inside, the car is stripped out with only the essential functions being available, controlled from a carbon fibre binnacle. The stock steering wheel has been replaced with a racing steering wheel with paddle shifters and a gear change indicator, the heated leather seats have also been removed in favour of [[Recaro]] racing bucket seats with six-point racing harness and the gauges have been replaced with a digital racing display. New carbon fibre door panels, plexiglass windows and a full roll cage complete the transformation. Production was limited to just 21 units.

The 722 GT could accelerate from {{cvt|0-97|kph|mph|0|abbr=on}} in 3.3 seconds and could attain a top speed of {{cvt|315|kph|mph|0|abbr=on}}, which is less than the standard SLR due to added aerodynamic drag.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/mercedes/2008-mercedes-slr-722-gt-ar46315.html|title=2008 Mercedes SLR 722 GT|date=29 October 2007|access-date=25 June 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.motor1.com/news/89759/mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-722-gt/|title=Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 GT|date=9 May 2012|publisher=Motor1|access-date=11 January 2019}}</ref>

The SLR McLaren 722 GT was available to the North American market exclusively through their dealerships by [[Renntech]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Joseph |first=Noah |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/20/coming-to-america-mercedes-slr-mclaren-722-gt/ |title=Coming to America: Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 GT |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=20 December 2007 |access-date=1 October 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://jalopnik.com/336203/mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-722-gt-bound-for-us|title=Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 GT Bound For US|date=20 December 2007|first=Matt|last=Hardigree|publisher=[[Gizmodo Media Group|Jalopnik]]|access-date=11 January 2019}}</ref>

=== Crown Edition (2008) ===

The SLR "Crown Edition" was commissioned by the King of Bahrain as gifts for fellow Arab royals. This run of 10 cars was upgraded with 722-specification parts, including the uprated and modified engine, carbon fibre aerodynamic parts, stiffer dampers and 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Bonhams Cars : 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 'Crown Edition' Coupé Chassis no. WDD1993761M001671 |url=https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/29331/lot/163/2008-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-crown-edition-coupe-chassis-no-wdd1993761m001671/ |access-date=2024-04-15 |website=cars.bonhams.com |language=en}}</ref>

===Stirling Moss (2009)===

{{multiple image

| align =

| direction =

| width = 200

|image1= Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss McLaren.jpg

|image2= Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss - Flickr - Alexandre Prévot (cropped).jpg

|caption2= Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss

}}

Named after [[Stirling Moss|the British racing driver of the same name]], the SLR Stirling Moss is a limited edition variant unveiled at the [[North American International Auto Show#2009|2009 North American International Auto Show]],<ref>{{cite web|last=Abuelsamid |first=Sam |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/10/detroit-2009-mercedes-benz-unveils-mclaren-slr-stirling-moss-ea/ |title=Detroit 2009: Mercedes-Benz unveils McLaren SLR Stirling Moss early |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=10 January 2009 |access-date=1 October 2010}}</ref> which uses a speedster styling that does not include a roof or a windscreen. The car is designed by [[Koreans|Korean]] designer Yoon Il-hun and is inspired by the [[Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR|300 SLR]] race car. The interior was designed by Dutch designer Sarkis Benliyan. The SLR Stirling Moss was to be the last series of the McLaren SLR built under the partnership between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren, until McLaren announced their own [[#McLaren Edition (2011–2013)|final Edition]] of the SLR in late 2010.

The supercharged 5.4-litre SLR AMG V8 engine is rated at {{convert|650|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://media.daimler.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko/SLR-Stirling-Moss--design-and-technology-A-synthesis-of-the-traditional-and-the-modern--the-very-essence-of-the-automobile-and-high-class-passion.xhtml?oid=9274043|title = SLR Stirling Moss – design and technology: A synthesis of the traditional and the modern – the very essence of the automobile and high-class passion}}</ref> The SLR Stirling Moss could attain a top speed of {{convert|350|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} with acceleration from 0 to 100&nbsp;km/h (62&nbsp;mph) achieved in 3&nbsp;seconds. The car is approximately {{convert|200|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}} lighter than the regular model due to carbon fibre construction and speedster styling.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/news/auto_-_produkte/hxcms_article_513580_13987.hbs |title=Mercedes baut 75 SLR McLaren Speedster |publisher=Auto Motor & Sport |access-date=17 October 2008}}</ref>

The SLR Stirling Moss began production in June 2009, after the SLR Roadster was discontinued in May 2009. All 75 cars planned to be produced were completed by December 2009. The SLR Stirling Moss was available only to the existing SLR owners and each car cost in excess of US$1 million.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips |first=Drew |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/officially-official-mclaren-slr-stirling-moss-to-bow-in-detroit/ |title=Officially Official: McLaren SLR Stirling Moss to bow in Detroit |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=18 December 2008 |access-date=1 October 2010}}</ref>

===McLaren Edition (2011&ndash;2013)===

[[File:Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Edition MSO.jpg|alt=|thumb|Mercedes SLR McLaren Edition]]

In December 2011, more than a year after the SLR was officially discontinued, McLaren Special Operations (MSO) announced a bespoke program for the SLR. The McLaren Edition is based on all variants of the SLR with the exclusion of Stirling Moss and includes revised bodywork (front and rear bumper, grille, top shell, side grills, rear diffuser, wheels) and interior parts, along with upgraded steering and suspension components and a new titanium sports exhaust. The cars were modified exactly to the owner's specifications and due to this no two cars are exact. The personalisation cost £150,000 and was offered for only 25 cars.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.techautos.com/2010/12/05/mclaren-resurrects-mercedes-benz-slr-for-25-car-limited-edition/ |title=McLaren resurrects Mercedes-Benz SLR for 25-car limited edition |date=5 December 2010 |publisher=TechAutos |access-date=7 December 2010}}</ref>

=== SLR by MSO (2021) ===

The SLR by MSO was announced in 2021 by McLaren Special Operations. The project was said to be inspired by collectors, who often owned 3 or more SLR's, asking to send their cars back to MSO to receive upgrades or spec changes. In response to this, MSO launched the SLR by MSO program, allowing owners to upgrade their cars to the latest MSO technology, and to choose their own specs. The SLR by MSO upgrade cost £131,500 and features a unique front splitter that looks visually similar to the one found on the 722 edition. There is also a revised rear diffuser and floor pan that allows for a 2.5% reduction in drag. The SLR by MSO also features a unique, lighter 5 spoke wheel, improvements to the braking system, an exhaust system that is 30kg lighter, and improved suspension that has been lowered by 10mm. The upgrade also included the car being repainted and interior re-trimmed.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Barlow |first=Jason |date=1 November 2022 |title=Has MSO Reinvigorated the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren? |url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/big-reads/has-mso-reinvigorated-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren |access-date=15 April 2024 |website=Top Gear}}</ref>

=== HDK (2022) ===

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren HDK (High Downforce Kit) was announced in December 2021 by McLaren Special Operations as a bespoke car, built as a road-going version of the SLR 722 GT. Changes from the SLR 722 GT include an upgraded steering system, trimmed interior from a regular SLR, side grills, rear diffuser, louvers, single-exit exhausts and a modified variant of the M155 V8 producing 690 PS (507&nbsp;kW; 680&nbsp;hp).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kelshikar |first=Tushar |date=2022-06-19 |title=McLaren SLR HDK by MSO is an SLR 722 GT for the road |url=https://www.thesupercarblog.com/mclaren-slr-hdk-by-mso-is-an-slr-722-gt-for-the-road/ |access-date=2023-05-10 |website=The Supercar Blog |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Bell |first=Lucas |date=2022-08-05 |title=Modified SLR McLaren by MSO Brings Race Cred |url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a40783418/modified-slr-mclaren-by-mso-brings-race-cred/ |access-date=2023-05-11 |website=Road & Track |language=en-US}}</ref>

Reports suggest that 12 of these cars will be built with each one having unique touches catering to the owner's specifications, costing $350,000.<ref name=":0" />

==Sales==

{| class="wikitable"

|-

|-

| 2003 || ||<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2005/01/04/313903.html |title=2004 Highest Year on Record for Mercedes-Benz USA |publisher=Theautochannel.com |access-date=10 November 2009}}</ref>

|-

| 2004 || |

|-

| 2005 ||615<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datsc.com/blog/2013/08/02/mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren/|title=Mercedes SLR production figures|publisher=DATSC.com|access-date=9 November 2003|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109150352/http://www.datsc.com/blog/2013/08/02/mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren/|archive-date=9 November 2013}}</ref>||<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2007/01/03/032870.html |title=Mercedes-Benz Rings in the New Year with Record 2006 Sales |publisher=Theautochannel.com |access-date=10 November 2009}}</ref>

|-

| 2006 ||261 ||

|-

| 2007 ||275 ||<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Jan09/05_001548_Mercedes_Benz_USA_Sales_Drop_32_Percent_In_December_2008.html |title=Mercedes-Benz USA's Sales Drop 32.1 Percent In December 2008 &#124; eMercedesBenz - The Unofficial Mercedes-Benz Weblog |publisher=eMercedesBenz |date=5 January 2009 |access-date=10 November 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120731131626/http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Jan09/05_001548_Mercedes_Benz_USA_Sales_Drop_32_Percent_In_December_2008.html |archive-date=31 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

|-

| 2008 || |

|-

| 2009 || ||<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mercedes-benz-posts-highest-sales-month-for-the-year-with-20025-vehicles-sold-in-december-80710637.html |title=Mercedes-Benz Posts Highest Sales Month for the Year With 20,025 Vehicles Sold in December |publisher=Prnewswire.com |date=5 January 2010 |access-date=25 June 2010}}</ref>

|-

| 2010 || ||<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/highest-sales-month-for-the-year-at-21469-brings-mercedes-benz-to-an-18-percent-increase-for-2010-112881769.html |title=Highest Sales Month for the Year at 21,469 Brings Mercedes-Benz to an 18 Percent Increase for 2010 |publisher=Prnewswire.com |date=4 January 2011 |access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref>

|}

Total sales were 615 units in 2005, 261 units in 2006, and 275 units in 2007, falling well below Mercedes-McLaren's goal of selling 500 units annually.<ref name="worldcarfans.com">{{cite web |last=Masemola |first=Thami |date=2008-04-02 |title=Mercedes Ends SLR Production in 2009 |url=http://www.worldcarfans.com/9080402.010/mercedes-ends-slr-production-in-2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407050610/http://www.worldcarfans.com/9080402.010/mercedes-ends-slr-production-in-2009 |archive-date=2008-04-07 |access-date=10 November 2009 |publisher=Worldcarfans.com}}</ref>

When the SLR was first announced, Mercedes said total production would be limited to 3,500 units. 1,400 units had been sold by the end of 2007. The factory confirmed that production would halt at the end of 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2009-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-roadster-722-s-auto-shows|title=2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S - Auto Shows - News - Car and Driver|date=30 September 2008|publisher= Car and Driver}}</ref>

A total of 2,157 cars were produced.

<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.carscoops.com/2017/09/own-mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-join-club.html?m=1|title=Own A Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren? Join The Club - Carscoops|date=24 September 2017}}</ref>

==Motorsports==

[[Spencer Pumpelly]] entered an SLR McLaren in the [[Speed World Challenge]] GT class, driving for [[TRG Motorsports]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.world-challenge.com/drivers/ |title=SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge - Drivers |publisher=World-challenge.com |access-date=10 November 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090707184208/http://www.world-challenge.com/drivers/ |archive-date=7 July 2009 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==See also==

* [[Mercedes-Benz W196]]

* [[Mercedes-Benz 300SL]]

* [[Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR]]

* [[Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG]]

==References==

===Notes===

{{reflist|30em}}

=== Bibliography ===

<!-- last updated October 2021 -->

{{refbegin}}

* {{cite book |last1=Eckardt |first1=Emanuel |authorlink1=Emanuel Eckardt|last2=Feth |first2=Gerd-Gregor |last3=Maxeiner |first3=Dirk |authorlink3=:de:Dirk Maxeiner |title=Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren |date=2004 |publisher=Motorbuch Verlag |location=Stuttgart |isbn=3613024039 |language=de}}

* {{Pitt-MB-SL & SLR}}

* {{cite web |url=http://auto.howstuffworks.com/mercedes-slr.htm |title=Howstuffworks "How the Mercedes SLR Works" |first=Ed |last=Grabianowski |date=16 September 2005 |access-date=25 June 2007 }}

* {{cite web |url=http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/cars/slr.htm |title=McLaren Automotive: Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren |access-date=25 June 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070528022738/http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/cars/slr.htm |archive-date = 28 May 2007}}

{{refend}}

==External links==

{{Commons category|Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren}}

*[http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/innovation/amg Mercedes SLR AMG Overview]

*McLaren Mercedes-Benz SLR pages: [https://web.archive.org/web/20080202054024/http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/cars/slr.htm SLR coupé], [https://web.archive.org/web/20080204080403/http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/cars/slr_roadster_specifications.htm SLR Roadster], [https://web.archive.org/web/20080202054029/http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/cars/slr_722.htm SLR 722 coupé], [https://web.archive.org/web/20090821064327/http://www.mclarenautomotive.com/slr/slr-roadster-introduction.php Roadster 722 S]

{{McLaren Automotive|state=2003-2010}}

{{McLaren}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mercedes-Benz Slr Mclaren}}

[[Category:McLaren vehicles]]

[[Category:Roadsters]]

[[Category:Cars introduced in 2003]]

[[Category:Hardtop convertibles]]

[[Category:Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles]]

[[Category:Cars discontinued in 2010]]