2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR Mclaren

Top speed 207 mph. 0-60 in under 3.8 seconds. The SLR McLaren is a milestone automotive achievement, as much for its staggering power and performance as its Formula 1 inspired engineering and design.

DaimlerChrysler has entered into an agreement for the design and production of the Mercedes-Benz SLR with McLaren Cars Ltd. The two companies will invest a total of approx. EUR 200 million in this project.

The vehicle will reflect the heritage, philosophies and styling of Mercedes-Benz and will be produced utilizing the latest state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques at the new TAG McLaren facilities currently under construction in Woking, England. The market launch of this super sports car is scheduled for 2003.

Through the concept of the Mercedes-Benz SLR, DaimlerChrysler and McLaren intend to ensure the transfer of technology and image from their successful Formula 1 partner-ship to series production, while at the same time reviving the myth of the Silver Arrows with this super sports car.

In the opinion of experts, the segment of top-class sports cars - at which the Mercedes-Benz SLR is aimed - will almost double during the next five years and reach an annual volume of about 2,500 units. DaimlerChrysler expects to be able to meet up to 20 percent of the demand in this segment. The major markets for the Mercedes-Benz SLR will be the USA, Europe, Japan and the Middle East.

Bodywork made of high-performance materials
With the decision in favor of series production of the Mercedes-Benz SLR, the Stuttgart-based brand returns to the segment of the legendary Gran Turismo. The two-seater will continue the tradition of the legendary Silver Arrows from Mercedes-Benz, with ground-breaking technical innovations adopted from Formula 1.

Like the current McLaren Mercedes racing car which carries the three-pointed star, the super sports car will have a bodywork made of an intelligent combination of carbon fibre and other high-performance materials which ensure maximum rigidity and occupant protection at a weight that will set the standards in this category. Exemplary handling stability and safety will be provided by features such as optimum aerodynamics, advanced electronic control systems and fibre-reinforced ceramic brakes.

Top-class values in terms of torque and road speed
The Mercedes-Benz SLR will be powered by a V8 engine with an output of more than 400 kW/544 HP. The car has a target weight of 1,400 kilograms (3,080 pounds), which will permit top-class acceleration and speed. Equipped with a supercharger and a special water-based charge air cooler, the engine will develop a maximum torque of more than 700 Newton meters upwards of 4000/min.

Source - Mercedes Benz