Only 75 units of the SLR Stirling Moss will be made. (Mercedes-Benz photo)
This is the Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss, a speedster version of the McLaren-Mercedes supercar without a roof or windshield that marks the end of the SLR’s six-year lifespan.
Costing €750,000 (or $1,05 million, twice the price of the standard car), this 75-model limited edition is meant as a tribute to Moss, who drove Benz 300 SLR racers to Mille Miglia and Targa Florio victories in the 1950s.
It also marks the end of the Anglo-German alliance that McLaren and Mercedes are about to conclude.
The Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss is powered by the same V8 as the standard SLR, with 640hp. It’s capable of 0-62mph in 3.5sec, and 217mph.
Only customers who have previously owned an SLR will be able to buy the Stirling Moss. It’s much lighter than the standard SLR, not just because there’s no roof, but also because the entire body is made from carbon-fiber.
Two air scoops behind the driver serve as anti-roll bars, while the only weather protection is provided by small wind deflectors at the front. Two tonneau covers are stowed in the trunk.
Mercedes has reworked the aerodynamics to ensure high levels of downforce and improved handling. The SLR’s airbrake is also retained; it rises during heavy braking at speeds above 75mph. The brake discs are carbon-ceramic.
Despite the outlandish looks, this Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss is designed for road use rather than as a pure track day tool. A lavish high-end interior is promised, with technology carried over from the regular SLR coupe.
Production of the Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss starts in June next year and will continue until December, so it will outlive the standard SLR, which will be discontinued in May.
