Introduced in 2005, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren was more than just a supercar; it was a statement of intent. Born from a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and their Formula 1 partner McLaren, the SLR (Sport Leicht Rennsport – Sport Light Racing) was designed to showcase the pinnacle of automotive engineering and technology, echoing the spirit of the legendary 300SLR of the 1950s while pushing the boundaries of modern performance.
At the heart of this automotive marvel lies a hand-built engine from Mercedes-AMG, the performance division synonymous with power and precision. Each 5.5-liter, supercharged V8 was meticulously assembled by a single AMG master technician, a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship poured into every SLR McLaren. This all-alloy, 24-valve powerhouse delivers a staggering 617bhp at 6,500rpm, placing it amongst the most potent engines ever fitted to a production road car. However, the raw horsepower figure only tells part of the story. The true marvel of this engine is its immense torque. From a mere 1,500 rpm, the engine unleashes 440lb/ft of torque, surging to over 500lb/ft between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm. This near-flat torque curve translates to breathtaking acceleration and responsiveness across the rev range, making the 2005 Mercedes Benz Slr Mclaren a force to be reckoned with both on the track and the open road.
Image alt text: Close-up view of the hand-assembled 5.5-liter supercharged V8 engine of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, highlighting AMG craftsmanship.
The engineers opted for a front-engine layout in the 2005 Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren, a decision driven by the pursuit of optimal weight distribution, superior handling dynamics, and enhanced braking stability. Employing a dry-sump lubrication system, a feature typically reserved for racing cars, allowed for a lower engine mounting position, further contributing to the car’s balanced and agile nature. The five-speed automatic transmission, an AMG Speedshift R unit, was specifically calibrated to manage the engine’s prodigious torque output. This advanced transmission system offers drivers a range of shift characteristics, allowing for seamless transitions in automatic mode or rapid gear changes in manual mode, adapting to various driving styles and conditions.
Image alt text: Illustration of the carbon fiber monocoque chassis construction of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, showcasing the advanced materials and engineering.
The collaboration with McLaren extended beyond shared Formula 1 expertise. The 2005 Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren features a carbon fiber composite monocoque body and chassis structure, manufactured at McLaren’s state-of-the-art facility in Woking, England. Carbon fiber, long utilized in aerospace and Formula 1, provides exceptional rigidity and strength while minimizing weight. Mercedes-Benz and McLaren pioneered innovative, patented processes to bring a degree of automation to carbon fiber production, making this advanced material viable for a production road car. The benefits are numerous: reduced weight, exceptional torsional stiffness, enhanced safety due to superior energy absorption in impacts, and resistance to corrosion.
Further pushing technological boundaries, the 2005 Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with carbon-ceramic brake discs. These advanced brakes are engineered from a fiber-reinforced ceramic material capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, providing unparalleled fade resistance and braking performance, far exceeding conventional materials. Complementing this braking prowess is an electronically controlled rear spoiler. Under heavy braking, this spoiler automatically deploys to a 65-degree angle, dramatically increasing aerodynamic drag and contributing to exceptional stability during high-speed deceleration.
The Offered 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
This particular Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Coupe, bearing chassis number 428 and production number 496, rolled off the factory line in January 2005. It is presented in the striking Crystal Laurite Silver Metallic, echoing the iconic “Silver Arrows” racing heritage, paired with a sophisticated black Semi-Aniline leather interior. Delivered new by Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan to its first owner, Mr. Joffrey A. Robert, on March 14, 2005, this SLR quickly relocated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Image alt text: Front three-quarter view of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren in Crystal Laurite Silver Metallic, highlighting its distinctive styling and aerodynamic profile.
Having covered fewer than 5,000 miles from new, this 2005 Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren remains in excellent condition. It boasts desirable carbon fiber seats, configured with a Large size on the right and Extra Large on the left, accommodating a wide range of occupants. The car retains its original 19-inch Turbine wheels and is accompanied by its two keys, service booklet, warranty card, and complete owner’s manuals housed in the original SLR pouch. Maintained by Mercedes-Benz Merbag in Luxembourg, with recent service completed in November 2022, this low-mileage, US-delivery 2005 Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren represents a rare opportunity for discerning supercar enthusiasts and Mercedes-Benz collectors alike to acquire a true automotive icon.
Image alt text: Rear view of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren with the electronically controlled rear spoiler subtly raised, emphasizing its aerodynamic functionality.
