Intro
Proudly presenting the Dark Star of our fleet, the 2009 Mercedes SLR McLaren Roadster in mint condition with just 709km (440 miles) from new! Yes, you read correctly an eleven year old car with 709 kilometres on the odometer. The perfection of this example cannot be understated. This vehicle gives the buyer a chance to step into a time machine and purchase a brand new Mercedes SLR McLaren in highly coveted condition. This “one owner”, meticulously maintained, low mileage example stands head and shoulders above any other SLR’s on the market.
History
The SLR was produced from 2003-2010 as a joint venture between Mercedes and McLaren, due to their F1 collaborations at the time. Although the car wears the silver star badge the SLR wasn’t made in Germany, but rather at McLaren’s factory in the UK. Designed by the legendary Gordon Murray (famous designer of the F1 McLaren and Formula One cars from 69-91) this machine serves as a beautiful homage to the infamous Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR. Driven by the formidable Sir Stirling Moss, the 300 SLR is known for averaging 100mph for 1000 miles, winning the Mille Miglia in 1955.
Mechanics
The SLR boasts a 3 valve, 5.5 litre supercharged V8 producing 617 horsepower and 580 lb/ft of torque. Coupled with an AMG Speedshift R 5 speed automatic transmission, the SLR is capable of 0-60mph in a blistering 3.3 seconds with a top speed of 208mph (334km/h), making it the fastest automatic in the world in 2009 and still has the ability to keep up with most modern cars. With just 709km (440 mi) this vehicle has been meticulously maintained and the engine still retains all the power it had eleven years ago and remains fully EPA DOT compliant (CA OBD II). As good as the car performs under 100mph Gordon Murray designed the car to really come into its element at 100mph plus. The handling, traction control and aerodynamics shine at high speed and many have described the feeling at max speed as “rock solid”.
Body and Styling
The body of the vehicle is constructed completely of carbon fibre. Upon further inspection one notices the immaculate build quality standards that both Mercedes and McLaren are famous for from the fitting of the panels to the stitching in the seats, perfection is the standard. Through the life of this vehicle, that perfection has remained intact, making this perhaps the best condition SLR available on the market today. One of the signature features of the SLR is the butterfly doors, spring loaded and easy to operate they make a bold statement upon entry and exit. The Crystal Cassiterite Black Metallic paint is immaculate and shines with a deep obsidian glow. Mint condition Silver Arrow Beige leather drapes the interior and the uniqueness of this car doesn’t stop there. Just starting the car is an experience in itself. Turn the key, then flip a gated latch atop the gear shifter to reveal a James Bond style push button ignition, then try to keep from grinning as the V8 roars to life with a signature muscle car-like rumble, gurgling out of the side mounted quad exhaust. As quick as the SLR is off the line, its carbon-ceramic brakes and active aerodynamic rear wing are shockingly effective at bringing the car to a stop.
Summary
Upon its unveiling, automotive journalists were quick to call the SLR a GT car, but with its mid-engine mounting and raw performance one could easily argue for this as a sports car. No matter which side you take, it doesn’t take long behind the wheel before you realize that this car is simply fantastic. This investment-grade example of the Mercedes SLR McLaren is a grippy, agile adrenaline rush. Seriously aggressive yet civilized. Ludicrous yet liveable.
