With huge thanks to Collecting Cars, I get the chance to check out an insanely rare version of the iconic Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren... 1 of just 25 McLaren Editions.
This Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Edition Roadster is an exceptionally rare open-top supercar, boasting a completely unique specification, and remarkably low mileage. It has been cherished by just one private owner from new. Under the bonnet is a 5.4-litre supercharged V8, coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission with Touchshift control.
It is understood that just 25 examples of the SLR McLaren were converted by MSO to ‘Edition’ specification, and only six of those are believed to have been the Roadster model. Alongside the obvious aerodynamic bodywork modifications, eye-catching side-exhaust exhausts and revised interior, McLaren Special Operations (MSO) also fitted upgraded suspension, applied a custom engine tune, and modified the steering setup. This original UK-market car was originally delivered in Crystal Laurite Silver paintwork, with ‘Silver Arrow 300 SL’ red leather, and was handed over to its owner in September 2007 at the SLR Centre of Excellence at Mercedes-Benz Brooklands.
The car returned to McLaren in January 2009, when an agreement was signed to convert the car to the latest ‘McLaren Edition’ specification. This included a full repaint in Alabaster White, red enamel badges on both sides and the boot lid, red ‘tick’ wheel centres, the 722 Edition aerodynamic package, 722 tinted lights, and the 722S model alloy wheels. Inside, raised seat fronts were installed, a bespoke ‘McLaren Edition’ badge was applied to the radio cover, and carbon kick plates were fitted. Finally, a louder sports exhaust was installed, and the revised suspension settings were also requested.
In 2010, further upgrades were installed by MSO, which included the front wheel arch vents, carbon-fibre door mirrors, and repainted brake callipers in a vibrant red hue. The seats were re-trimmed to McLaren’s latest specifications, and a carbon-fibre steering wheel was also fitted. In total, the ‘McLaren Edition’ conversion works to this car came to £106,831. More recently, the car has been repainted once again, this time to lustrous grey hue. In the sunlight, this colour reflects specks of gold and reds, representing McLaren’s chosen colour for this Edition. A plaque mounted behind the gear lever denotes that this is ‘001’ of the limited run of just 25 SLRs converted by MSO.
