For Sale at Auction: 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR in Las Vegas, Nevada

Chassis No. WDDAJ76F56M000833

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren debuted in 2004 as a modern Gran Turismo, combining Mercedes-Benz's refinement with McLaren's Formula One-bred engineering. Its design drew inspiration from the 1955 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, with a sweeping bonnet, compact tail, and aerodynamic detailing rooted in motorsport. Power came from a hand-built 5.4-liter supercharged V8 by Mercedes-AMG, producing 626 horsepower, enough for zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 208 mph. The lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque gave the SLR both strength and agility, marking the first road car to be assembled at the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC).

Although production ended in 2009, McLaren's involvement with the SLR continued through McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the brand's bespoke division, which is responsible for custom commissions and owner-focused upgrades. Initially, MSO developed the limited-run McLaren Edition SLR in 2010, followed by one-off projects and refinement packages. In 2021, in response to collector demand, MSO launched the SLR by MSO program. This allowed owners to send their cars back to MTC for extensive enhancements and personalization. Featuring a long list of possible improvements, owners could add a new front splitter visually similar to the 722 Edition, a revised rear diffuser and floor pan for a 2.5-percent reduction in drag, and unique lightweight five-spoke wheels. The braking system could be upgraded, the suspension could be lowered by 10 mm, and a redesigned exhaust could be fitted to further reduce weight. An extended color palette is offered to further personalize the cars, in addition to a fully retrimmed interior.

Finished in Crystal Laurit Silver Metallic with a Black leather interior, this super sports car was completed during its largely hand-built production at the McLaren Technology Centre in Surrey, England, before being shipped to the United States. It was equipped with "large" body-contoured seats for both the driver and passenger. The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report shows that Mercedes-Benz of Alexandria, Virginia, initially sold the car in late 2007. It continued with subsequent registrations in Arizona, Montana, and California before being purchased by the current owner and gentleman racer in November 2023.

Following their purchase, the car was flown to Woking, England, for McLaren Special Operations (MSO) to complete a comprehensive list of upgrades. These include a full interior retrim in unique MSO Blue leather with custom weave patterns on the seats, door cards, and carpets, featuring woven piping, bespoke badging, and matching luggage, at a cost of $54,895. Performance enhancements begin with the Low Temp Cooler upgrade ($34,151.10) and the Aero Plus Package ($29,271.50). Developed at the historic HORIBA MIRA wind tunnel, the aero suite comprises a front splitter, rear diffuser, ducktail spoiler, and fender louvers to match the downforce of an SLR 722 while also reducing drag. The Handling Package ($25,312.93) sharpens dynamics with a 20 mm lower ride height, revised springs, and dampers. Complementing this SLR is the Sports Exhaust system ($21,342.15), which saves 35 pounds, adds 40 horsepower, and offers cabin-adjustable sound, as well as lightweight 19-inch MSO wheels ($10,574.13). The process also included refinishing the car as originally specified to ensure it looked as good as it now performs. Before returning to the U.S., a new braking module, spark plugs, four new tires, upgraded power steering pump, paddle-shift steering wheel, and paint protection film were installed along with a Mercedes B service which brought the total of work rendered by MSO to $235,000.

MSO has kept the SLR spirit alive long after production, not only as a celebration of all things SLR, but it also demonstrates McLaren's continued commitment to supporting this pioneering super-GT. It transformed the car into a sharper, bespoke offering while preserving its grand touring character. The car is offered with just 4,765 miles at cataloging, MSO documentation, matching luggage, owner's manuals, battery tender, service history, and a clean CARFAX. More than just an enhanced super GT by the same team that built the car originally, this SLR is likely one of the most compelling, exceptionally presented, and comprehensively upgraded SLRs by MSO currently available making this an opportunity not to be missed. This modern rendition of the fabled 300 SL with its wonderful improvements would be the ideal addition to any collection looking for the ultimate super sports car.