Race-bred 680bhp Mercedes SLR McLaren - Auto Trader UK - News and Reviews Hub

Race-bred 680bhp Mercedes SLR McLaren

Race-bred 680bhp Mercedes SLR McLaren - News image

29 October 2007

by Adrian Hearn

Hot on the heels of the ferocious Ferrari FXX is Mercedes’ latest track car – the Mercedes McLaren SLR 722 GT Edition.

Built by racing specialists RML Group, the Mercedes McLaren SLR 722 GT Edition gets a newly developed suspension, braking system, air filter and exhaust.

And the Merc’s power and pull has been boosted from 626bhp and 576lb/ft to a stratospheric 680bhp and 612lb/ft.

This enables acceleration from 0-62mph (100kph) in lightning-quick 3.3 seconds.

But the top speed has been reduced by 13mph to 195mph.

However, you won’t be able to drive the SLR 722 GT on the road – it’s strictly a car for the track.

And to improve its race pedigree, RML has fitted 18-inch alloys with one single lock to allow fast tyre changes.

The SLR 722 GT also gets an aerodynamic bodykit and an ironing board-like spoiler to increase downforce and provide monumental grip.

Inside the car is fitted with a roll cage, redesigned instrument panel and bucket seats with six-point seat belts.

Just 21 of the SLRs will be produced, with many of the orders expected to go to the exclusive SLR Club.

However, the McLaren’s immense power is a way off Ferrari’s most extreme model ever – the recently announced track-only FXX Evolution.

Powered by a 6.2-litre V12 engine, the Ferrari FXX Evolution produces a colossal 860bhp and was designed with support from Formula One legend Michael Schumacher.

But if you want an FXX, you should expect to write a cheque for about £1 million - £600,000 more than the McLaren.

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