A choice of 13 exclusive paint colours is available, for example. These hues can either display the rich tone of the monochrome “Pure” paint or the deep, textured effect of the “Crystal” paints. Special metal particles in these water-soluble, environmentally friendly metallic paints produce a surface structure with a particularly intense effect characterised by captivating depth and fascinating brilliance. Because the proportion of metal varies from colour to colour, the characteristic carbon-fibre structure of the body surface can be visible depending on the vehicle colour — especially at high temperatures or high humidity. This attractive effect is inherent in the technology and concept.

Ten-spoke or turbine look

The standard equipment for the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren includes striking 18-inch light-alloy wheels with ten spokes. The wheels are fitted with different size tyres at the front and rear. Large 19-inch wheels with an asymmetrical turbine look that strongly emphasises the dynamic character of the Gran Turismo are available as optional equipment. With these wheels, the easily visible brake callipers could be painted either red or gold, for a striking focal point.

A stylish combination of practicality and luxury

The interior of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is a unique combination of exquisite luxury and pure sports car surroundings that creates an incomparable, captivating atmosphere. Aluminium and carbon stand for practicality and in the vehicle’s two-colour interior concept, they form a stimulating contrast with the high-quality leather upholstery in semi-aniline, rich Alcantara and fine pearl velour.

As an alternative to the standard equipment package, Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren customers can opt for the untreated, Silver Arrow leather exclusively developed for the SLR, with its unique quality and availability in a wide range of colours. In addition to having a fascinating structure, this untreated leather is inviting to touch, remarkably soft and breathable, and resistant to slipping. It lends the interior the sensual, tactile quality and fragrance of the finest leather, ensuring a very special ambience. A total of 15 leather colours are available. All together, this means customers can choose from a wide variety of possible combinations of paints and colours.

The exquisite equipment, which combines the highest levels of practicality and luxury, harmonises beautifully with the modern sports car technology of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. In the interest of achieving superlative handling dynamics and high braking stability, the high-performance vehicle was conceived as a front-mid-engined sports car. The powerful V8 engine mounted on a sturdy aluminium frame is set low to provide a low centre of gravity and enhance the agility of the car.

Developed by Mercedes-AMG, the car’s supercharged V8 engine generates 460 kW/626 hp from 5.5 litres of displacement and powers the sports car from zero to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. The maximum speed is 334 km/h. A water/charge-air cooling system, dry-sump lubrication and four metal catalytic converters are also among the highlight features of this powerful engine.

Like the Formula 1 racing car produced by McLaren-Mercedes, the new SLR also has a body made of lightweight carbon-fibre materials with an outstanding degree of energy absorption, thus providing maximum safety to the driver and passenger. The SLR is the world’s first series-production car with a front crash structure that consists entirely of carbon fibre. The ESP® Electronic Stability Program, adaptive airbags, newly developed knee and head/thorax airbags, seat belt tensioners, high-performance ceramic brake discs and an automatically activated air brake on the boot lid round off the safety equipment of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, which sets new standards in this class.