Mercedes-Benz, SLR McLaren, Generation 1 Overview

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Generation 1 was a grand tourer produced by Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz) and McLaren Cars. It was designed as a limited-edition car to celebrate the merger between McLaren and Mercedes-Benz in 1998.

Design and Features:

• The SLR McLaren was the brainchild of Gordon Murray, the principal designer at McLaren Cars.
• Its design drew inspiration from the McLaren F1 supercar, with a sleek and aerodynamic body.
• It featured a removable hardtop, gull-wing doors that swung upwards for easy access, and a distinctive shape with a short rear deck and long front hood.
• The interior was designed by Pininfarina, featuring premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and advanced infotainment systems.

Specifications:

• Engine: 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (M113) producing 617 horsepower at 6,900 rpm and 493 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm.
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual.
• Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive.
• Chassis: Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) monocoque with aluminum subframes.
• Suspension: Double-wishbone suspension with coil springs and shock absorbers.

Performance:

• Acceleration from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds.
• Top speed electronically limited to 200 mph (electronically governed, but capable of reaching higher speeds).
• Quarter-mile time around 11.5 seconds.

Safety Features:

• Airbags for driver and passenger.
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS).
• Electronic stability control (ESC) with traction control system (TCS).

Production and Sales:

• Production began in 2003, with a planned production run of 2,000 units over three years.
• The car was sold through select Mercedes-Benz dealerships worldwide.
• Pricing started at around $495,000 for the base model.

Notable Variants and Limited Editions:

• SLR McLaren Roadster (convertible) variant produced in limited numbers.
• Limited-edition models such as the SLR 722 Edition, celebrating Michael Schumacher's record-breaking achievements.
• Other special editions with unique color schemes and interior trim.