2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster Roadster

The SLR Supercar (SLR for Sport Leicht Rennsport) was introduced in 2005 and fitted with technological developments that were ahead of their time. It was the work of Mercedes-Benz and its then Formula 1 partner McLaren, and produced at Mercedes-Benz's AMG performance division. Each example was the responsibility of one engineer who carried out the entire assembly process. The 5.5-liter, all-alloy, 24-valve, supercharged V8 engine produced 617 horsepower, making it among the most powerful engines to be found in a series-produced road-going sports car.

In the interest of optimum weight distribution, handling dynamics and braking stability, the engine was mounted at the front. The dry-sump lubrication system, which is more commonly found in competition cars, enabled the engine to be mounted lower in the chassis. The five-speed automatic transmission offered drivers the option of choosing between different shift characteristics using the Speedshift system. The SLR's carbon fiber composite monocoque body/chassis structure was produced in McLaren's all-new facility in Woking, England. The material was low weight, rigid, corrosion resistant, and offered significantly higher energy absorption than traditional material. The pioneering use of composite technology was also extended to the brake discs, which are manufactured from a fiber-reinforced ceramic material. The electronically controlled rear spoiler rose to an angle of 65 degrees when the driver brakes heavily, boosting the braking effect by increasing aerodynamic drag.

This particular SLR Roadster was built at the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren production facility in the United Kingdom during the Summer of 2008. It was given a Crystal Digenit Blue Metallic with a black soft top and a Beige leather interior. It was specially ordered with an XXL-sized driver seat and an XL-sized passenger seat. The 19-inch turbine wheels house a set of red brake calipers clamping down on carbon ceramic brake rotors.

This SLR Roadster is one of 106 examples produced during the 2008 model year. Upon completion, it was sent to the United States, where a New Jersey-based enthusiast took delivery to become its first owner. It is believed that the car remained in New Jersey until 2010 when it was sold with just over 4,000 miles. The current owner purchased the vehicle in 2022. Service work was performed in August 2023, totaling over $56,000. Currently, this SLR Roadster has just over 12,000 miles on the odometer.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2024