Reinventing a legend

Set to premiere this fall at the Frankfurt Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren super sports GT celebrates the SLR race cars of the 1950s.
July 10, 2003

A sneak peak at the Mercedes-Benz SLR super sports GT takes cues from the 300SLR roadster and Uhlenhaut Coupe in the background.

Claimed to be a futuristic interpretation of styling elements of the original 300SLR and the latest Formula 1 Silver Arrow race cars, the SLR McLaren will hit U.S. shores mid-2004.

The hot rod features a carbon-fiber composite monocoque and body panels, and fiber-reinforced ceramic brake discs. According to Mercedes-Benz, the specially designed carbon-fiber crash structure pushes the sports car to new levels in energy absorption. The heart of the SLR is a supercharged V8 that provides over 550 hp. Pricing has not been set in stone, but expect the mid-$300,000 range.

About the Author

Sign up for Machine Design eNewsletters
Get the latest news and updates.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!