If you want technology 20 years ahead of all other cars on the road, you buy a McLaren. That is just as true now as it was a decade ago when they partnered with Daimler-Chrysler to build an answer to the Enzo: the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.
Mercedes was in need of a new flagship to launch a myriad of new technology that wouldn’t seem appropriate to debut on the S or even SL models. Paying careful attention to their advances in carbon fiber manufacture, Mercedes focused on the drivetrain while leaving the body mostly to McLaren. What emerged is a one piece carbon tub for the cockpit bonded to a light aluminum front subframe.
(See also: Pristine 2003 Ferrari Enzo for Sale)
Not to be outclassed by the high tech body, Mercedes supplied a hand built supercharged V8 with dual air-to-water intercoolers. Pumping 617 hp from only 5.4 liters is an astonishing task, and is probably why these cars have held their value so well.
A roadster version was developed in 2007, and for a last hurrah they were able to push the engine to 640 hp. This version was named the 722 Edition in homage to the famous 300 SLR driven by Sir Stirling Moss. In total, only 1150 cars were built, comprised of coupes, roadsters and the 722.
If you can find one for sale, jump on it. You will probably never have the opportunity again.
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