2009 Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR 722 S Roadster

The SLR McLaren was developed in collaboration with the McLaren Technology Centre and introduced in November 2003 as Mercedes-Benz's entry into the world of the supercar. The goal was to build a car that accommodate two adults and reach speeds of 200 mph, all done in comfort and style.

In a nod to Stirling Moss' 300 SLR, which wore #722 and won the 1955 Mille Miglia in record time, McLaren released the 722 edition, which was introduced in 2008 as an upgraded version of the model. Horsepower had risen to 650, and zero-to-sixty mph took just 3.6 seconds. Larger carbon-ceramic disc brakes were fitted with lighter 19-inch wheels, and the nose received an all-new diffuser and air splitter to improve downforce, as well as a modified front spoiler. Inside, the SLR 722 edition remained largely unchanged, save for some trim changes and new bucket seats and a steering wheel, which were both upholstered in leather and Alcantara. A year after its release, the chassis was lowered by 10 mm, adding special 19-inch wheels, and applying a special Crystal Antimony Grey paint color. Both coupe and roadster versions of the SLR 722 and 722 S were produced.

Just six examples of the SLR McLaren 722 S McLaren Edition roadsters were constructed. They wore a different body kit, one that was inspired by the race-ready 722 GT, weighed nearly 50 kg less than the standard body, and provided increased downforce, as well as an upgraded suspension over the 'standard' SLR McLarens. All of the cars were painted grey.

This particular example was shipped to McLaren's headquarters in Woking, Surrey, for its transformation into a McLaren Edition. However, this car is the only example featuring a number of mechanical and cosmetic improvements completed by McLaren itself, including a one-off, two-tone McLaren Orange and black paint scheme. The engine was given 100 extra horsepower, thanks to upgraded engine management software, upgraded intercoolers, and a McLaren sports exhaust. As a result, this was the only McLaren Edition car to receive those engine upgrades, and it is estimated to reach 60 mph from a standstill in 2.9 seconds, which is 0.7 seconds faster than the standard car!

It was given numerous carbon fiber parts, including new front fenders, a deck lid with an adjustable wing, side-view mirrors, a front spoiler, hood slats, new front fenders, and an underbody with an upgraded rear diffuser. The brake calipers were painted matching McLaren Orange and the tailpipes were painted black. The interior received several updates as well, including carbon fiber doorsills, headrests embroidered with McLaren logos, reupholstered seats and door panels in diamond-patterned black Alcantara, McLaren Orange-painted seat frames and some interior trim, new McLaren Orange seat belts, and orange stitching.

150 SLR 722 S Roadsters were made, only 25 were destined for the U.S. From those cars, only six McLaren Editions were produced and five would remain in Europe, leaving this the sole U.S.-specification SLR 722 McLaren Edition Roadster.

Over $1 million was invested into this car when new.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2019