Mercedes-Benz SLR

Pedigree

Every year since 2005, the SLR. CLUB has been represented in the field of starters for the Mille Miglia classic car race. Accorded to the SLR as the only contemporary automobile, this honour is owed to a very special link with the "most beautiful race in the world": Stirling Moss's legendary victory in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR racing car in the 1955 Mille Miglia.

Exactly 50 years on, Sir Stirling Moss and "his" vehicle made a triumphant return to the scene of their former glory. At the technical inspection at 2 p.m. on 19 May 2005, he signed the car on the top left-hand side of its bonnet: "We did it together, my thanks and affection.

Ciao, Stirling Moss." After a much-celebrated lap of honour through Brescia, he handed over the controls to ex-racing driver Jochen Mass, who piloted the 300 SLR "722" over the 1000 miles of its final outing before its well-earned retirement to the Mercedes-Benz Museum.

Inspired by this highly emotive event, a customer initiative led to the creation of a specially individualised version: the result was an even sportier SLR, the SLR 722 Edition, a tribute to an immortal racing icon, with production limited to just 150 units.

Design

Technical details emphasise the expressive temperament of the SLR 722 Edition. To begin with, the front end boasts a striking profile. The distinctively shaped air splitter in visible carbon fibre increases the downforce on the front axle, affording the vehicle even preciser handling at high speeds. A further design statement with a clear technical background is made by the striking, entirely functional look of the 19-inch forged aluminium wheels. Their low weight reduces the unsprung mass to improve the damping characteristics of the SLR 722 Edition.

The puristically styled wheel spider in palladium grey, paired with the silver-painted rim flange, dispels any doubts about the potential that resides in the SLR 722 Edition. The message from this super sports car is made clear by the "722" lettering on the sides. And that message is an unmistakable one: power is what counts.

Technology

The optimal traction of the SLR 722 Edition is guaranteed by its perfectly matched components. For example, the car is lowered by 10 mm for improved handling as well as to underscore its dynamic character. Yet more precision work on the aerodynamic detailing is apparent in the rear wheel arches of the SLR 722 Edition, where air turbulence is reduced by wheel spoilers of visible carbon fibre.

In combination with the new front-end air splitter, visible carbon fibre diffuser and downforce-optimised adjustment angle of the airbrake, these measures ensure improved cornering, increased lateral acceleration, greater driving stability and enhanced braking power.

Dynamics

With its characteristic styling and abundance of power, the SLR 722 Edition is a logical follow-on to its iconic predecessor. Exploiting the technological possibilities of the 21st century, it delivers a contemporary reinterpretation of its illustrious ancestor. The SLR 722 Edition is a vehicle with a strong heart and soul, its high-performance powerplant lending it an unmistakable athleticism.

Thanks to its increased output of 478 kW/650 hp with modified intercooler and new electronic engine management, the SLR 722 Edition soon leaves the everyday in its wake. The weight of the vehicle has been reduced by 44 kg, while the use of visible carbon fibre, such as in the centre console, on the doors, in the footwell and on the rear wheel arches, creates an enhanced racing feel.

Specification

With its progressive elegance and ample refinement in the choice of materials, the SLR 722 Edition sets new standards of interior design. For example, the seats are upholstered in black semi-aniline leather and Alcantara. A striking contrast is created by intentionally prominent seams in 300 SL red, "722" embossing on the head restraints and similarly red seat belts. A further detail is a badge with "722 Edition" lettering underneath the gear lever.

Conversely, key items of equipment with regard to vehicle operation have been refined with a further type of high-grade leather: gear lever, gear-lever and handbrake-lever gaiters, handbrake handle and inside door handles on the SLR 722 Edition are covered in high-grip, moisture-absorbent suede. With its uncompromisingly individualistic styling, the SLR 722 Edition represents a trendsetting reaffirmation of Sir Stirling Moss's iconic 300 SLR.

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