Mercedes Attempts to Boost SLR Sales With More Power, Revised Looks

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Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes Attempts to Boost SLR Sales With More Power, Revised Looks
By Lindsay Holloway; photos courtesy Mercedes Benz USA
Nov 12, 2006, 23:43 PST

A Need for Speed

Mercedes-Benz’s SLR 722 Edition

The U.S. anticipates an upgraded version of a Mercedes-Benz supercar: the SLR 722 Edition. Aside from some superficial modifications, Mercedes’ attempt to boost sales of its SLR brings a refined vehicle packed with power.

Nineteen-inch alloy wheels, a 0.4-inch lower body and a sporty interior—complete with bucket sports seats, racing steering wheel, carbon trim and leather-and-Alcantara upholstery—are just a few image boosters for the thoroughbred racing car. The real difference is underneath the hood: a supercharged V8 engine with 650 hp—a notable increase from 617 hp. With the increase of horsepower comes a slightly higher top speed of 209 mph (up from 208 mph) and a quicker acceleration, taking only 3.6 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standstill. A modified rear diffuser and front spoiler with an air splitter improve stability, aerodynamics and contact pressure at high speeds, keeping the vehicle close to the ground. Larger brake disks (390 millimeters) and a stiffer suspension contribute to stability, improving both handling and braking performance.

The 722 Edition, which released in Europe on July 11, is an homage to the infamous victory by Great Britain’s Sir Stirling Moss and his co-driver journalist Denis Jenkinson at the Mille Miglia in 1955. Moss drove a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR with the starting number 722, indicating a start time of 7:22 a.m. They crossed the finish line a record 10 hours and 8 minutes later—almost half an hour ahead of the second place car.

Although the 722 Edition is currently available in Europe for a base price of 646,840 Euros, a 2007 U.S. release date and price tag have not been confirmed.