2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Key Points: UK Example, Paint Protection Film (PPF) Applied To Whole Car, Full Service History with Major Service Completed in 2024, 19" Asymetric Turbine Alloy Wheels (£7,000 From New).
The Mercedes-Benz SLR (Sport Leicht Rennsport) McLaren is a potent modern classic grand tourer, developed jointly by Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive as a homage to the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR of the 1950s. Built around a lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced monocoque, the car was offered in coupé, roadster and speedster body styles, with the latter being a limited-edition model.
It features a supercharged, hand-built 5.4-litre AMG V8 positioned behind the front axle to improve weight distribution, producing 617hp and 575lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed ‘AMG SPEEDSHIFT R’ automatic transmission with paddle shift.
The SLR’s design combines Mercedes-Benz styling with Formula 1-inspired engineering from McLaren. The car uses carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) construction for its chassis, monocoque passenger cell, doors, and bonnet, which helps keep the car lightweight.
It also features Sensotronic Brake Control, a type of brake-by-wire system with carbon ceramic discs for better stopping power and fade resistance than steel items. The 370mm front discs are internally vented and assisted by eight-piston callipers, while the 360mm rear discs use four-piston callipers. Under wet conditions, the callipers automatically skim the surface of the discs to keep them dry.
The specification includes active aerodynamics, including an adjustable rear spoiler/air brake which automatically raises to 10 degrees at 59mph, or to 30 degrees when controlled via a switch in the cabin. The car has a flat underbody and a rear diffuser to further aid downforce.
