2007 Mercedes SLR MCLAREN Review

Specifications

New Super SLR Inspired by 1955 Mille Miglia Win

Mercedes Benzs SLR-McLaren is already an incredible machine. Outfitted for autobahn combat with a supercharged 5.5L V8 producing 626 horsepower, its gained quite the reputation as one of the best Gran Turismo cars the world has ever seen, thanks to its combination of a plush interior and explosive performance.

In a world dominated by high strung flywheel-less Carrera GTs and Enzos with raw carbon door panels, however, the big, powerful, and comfy uber-GT appears as something of an anomaly; a powerful Mercedes badged sledgehammer among a field of supercar scalpels.

And with the introduction of the new SLR 722 Edition, that sledgehammer just got heavier. Built to celebrate Mercedes victory at the 1955 Mille Miglia, the 722 Edition gets its name from the starting number of the Mercedes Benz 300 SLR piloted to victory that year by Stirling Moss and co-driver Denis Jenkinson. Indicating a start time of 7:22 am, Stirling Moss famous silver SLR was powered by a race-bred 3.0L straight-eight motor that developed a then-stunning 310 horsepower.

This new SLR, wearing the same number on its trunk develops a now-stunning 650; 24 more than the standard SLR and 340 more than Moss SLR. With the same supercharged 5.5L V8 as the standard SLR, the new 722s added power means the car sprints to 62 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds, two tenths of a second faster than the standard SLR; an impressive feat given the relatively minor horsepower difference between the two. Additionally, the 722 Editions top speed is increased to 209 mph, besting the standard SLRs by 2.5 miles per hour.

Underneath, the 722 distinguishes itself from its slower brother by virtue of a more aggressive suspension setup. Firmer dampers mean the 722s ride is sufficiently sporting, and a ride height that is lowered by 0.39 inches means a lower centre of gravity and thus less body roll, but dont even try to take it up a steep driveway. Lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels unique to the 722 attempt to reduce the unsprung weight at each corner, while larger 15.3 inch disc brakes try their hardest to bring the unsprung weight right back up. While they work to counteract the benefit of the lighter wheels, expect those larger brakes to do something to diminish the standard SLRs horribly modulated brakes; one of the cars only weak points.

Of course, there are the obligatory styling changes as well; the 722 is privy to a modified front spoiler that receives an air splitter, as well as a different diffuser out back. Both changes are aerodynamic improvements; in keeping with the 722s more sporting aspirations.

Inside, bucket seats upholstered in leather and alcantara grip both driver and passenger, while the grippier racing steering wheel is lined with hunting leather. Combine with the added power output from the breathed-on V8, and the 722 is most definitely a force to be reckoned with; just like its 1955 namesake.