The Mercedes-Benz SLR represents a renaissance in the high-performance sports car class, whilst celebrating its roots in the 1950s SLR racecars. The new SLR McLaren is an amalgamation of class-leading performance and power, and the classic features of Mercedes-Benz design. Constructed with carbon fibre unibody, crash structures and panels, the SLR houses a 617 bhp, 5.5-litre, super-charged V8 engine. It achieves 60 mph from standstill in less than 3.8 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of over 200 mph.
The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren in producing the SLR showcases the collective expertise, experience and design capabilities of the two marques. This is demonstrated not only in the outstanding performance of the SLR, but also in the exceptional levels of practicality and safety with which the super car is equipped. Formula 1 technology is in evidence in the strength and durability of the carbon fibre body, achieving a level of rigidity unheard of in road vehicles.
Driver and passenger safety is enhanced by the SLR’s unique carbon fibre front crash structure, designed to absorb four to five times more energy on impact than similar steel structures.
V8 super-charged engine
Every V8 engine is super-charged, features intercoolers, and is manufactured by hand at Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance AMG facility in Affalterbach, Germany. The front mid-engine setup sees the engine mounted just behind the SLR’s front wheels. The need for an oil pan is eliminated by the inclusion of dry-sump lubrication, which allows the engine to be mounted as low in the vehicle’s frame as possible. This result is improved aerodynamics and an extremely low centre of gravity, enhancing handling. Another benefit of the dry-sump system is the eradication of the issue of oil starvation around tight corners.
Stopping power
The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is one of very few production models to employ ceramic braking technology. Its brake discs are manufactured from a revolutionary fibre-reinforced ceramic composite, providing exceptional braking power, high resistance to heat, peerless structural rigidity and a long lifespan. Weighing in a less than half the load of conventional brakes, the SLR’s ceramic composites are fitted with 8-piston callipers at the front and 4-piston callipers at the rear.
Alone, this braking system is capable of decelerating the SLR at forces of up to 1.3 G, the equivalent of around 2000 bhp. Its effectiveness if further enhanced by a rear spoiler which acts as an innovative air brake, increasing downforce and vehicle stability. When heavy braking is applied at speeds of over 59 mph, the spoiler rises to a 65-degree angle, allowing the SLR to come to a complete stop from 62 mph in a remarkable 114 ft.
The new SLR is the flagship model in the diverse Mercedes-Benz range – a manufacturer with a larger portfolio of products than any industry competitor.
