2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Registration no. LF05 VDJ
Chassis no. WDD1993761M000210

Manufactured between 2003 and 2010, their new supercar allowed Mercedes-Benz and its then Formula 1 partner, McLaren, to showcase their collective experience in the development, construction, and production of high-performance sports cars and, just like its legendary 300 SLR predecessor of 1955, it incorporated technological developments that were ahead of their time. Yet the term 'supercar' does not do full justice to the SLR, which, its peerless performance notwithstanding, is a luxurious and finely engineered Gran Turismo in the best traditions of Mercedes-Benz.

The heart of any car is its engine, and that of the SLR McLaren is truly outstanding. Produced at Mercedes-Benz's AMG performance division, it is a 5.5-litre, 24-valve, supercharged V8 producing 617bhp, making it one of the most powerful engines ever found in a series-produced road-going sports car. Impressive though this peak horsepower figure is, it is the torque produced by this state-of-the-art 'blown' motor that is its most remarkable feature. The torque curve is almost flat: there is already 440lb/ft by 1,500 rpm and well over 500lb/ft between 3,000 and 5,000 revs.

Needless to say, the SLR McLaren delivers performance figures that are still among the best in its class. Taking just 3.8 seconds to sprint from 0-100km/h (62mph), it passes the 200km/h (125mph) mark after 10.6 seconds and from a standing start takes just 28.8 seconds to reach 300km/h (186mph). The two-seater has a top speed of 334km/h (207 mph). The five-speed automatic transmission was specially optimised for very high torque and also offered the driver the option of choosing between different shift characteristics using the Speedshift system.

Reflecting the long-term technological collaboration that Mercedes-Benz and McLaren enjoyed in Formula 1, the SLR's carbon fibre composite monocoque body/chassis structure was produced in the latter's then all-new facility in Woking, England. Topping off this technological tour de force is the electronically controlled rear spoiler, which rises to an angle of 65 degrees when the driver brakes heavily, boosting the braking effect by increasing aerodynamic drag and lending the SLR outstanding stability when braking from high speeds.
This particular example is finished in stunning Crystal Laurite Silver with a Silver Arrow 300 SL red leather interior featuring carbon fibre seat backrests. The options on this SLR include a BOSE sound system, multifunction steering wheel, and Turbine alloy wheels. Originally supplied by SLR Centre in Brooklands, Surrey, who have maintained it from new, this pristine car has covered only some 31,000 miles and is presented in commensurately excellent condition. Accompanying documentation consists of sundry bills, current MoT, and a V5C document.