Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren: The Technology
Published: 25th August 2003
Top-class technology for 21st-century Gran Turismo
- High-torque V8 compressor engine with 460 kW/626 hp output
- 0 to 62.5 mph in 3.8 seconds
- World's first series-produced car to have carbon fibre front crash structure
- High-performance brake discs made from fibre-reinforced ceramic
Mercedes-Benz and McLaren have successfully imbued the new Mercedes-Benz
SLR McLaren (due to make its debut in autumn 2003) with the same
charismatic qualities. Just like its legendary predecessor of 1955,
this SLR incorporates new technological developments which are ahead
of their time.
For evidence, simply take a glance under the bonnet at the Mercedes-AMG
V8 powerplant. With its 5.5-litre displacement and screw-type compressor,
the engine develops a peak output of 460 kW/626 hp and delivers
its maximum torque of 780 Nm from 3250 rpm - a figure which remains
constant across a broad engine speed range of up to 5000 rpm. With
this kind of power under the bonnet, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
delivers performance figures which are among the best in its class:
this high-performance sports car takes just 3.8 seconds to sprint
from 0 to 62.5 mph, it passes the 124 mph mark after 10.6 seconds,
and from a standing start it takes just 28.8 seconds to reach 186
mph. The two-seater has a top speed of 208 mph (334 km/h) (provisional
figure).
