Originally built as a 722 S Roadster, this 750-horsepower machine was later reworked by McLaren Special Operations into one of the most exclusive SLR variants ever made.
Born Special
When the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren debuted in 2003, it was a groundbreaking collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren, bringing together the best qualities of both manufacturers in a supercar that would go on to achieve legendary status. Its styling and concept referenced the legendary 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR, the race car that claimed victory in that year’s Mille Miglia with Stirling Moss and navigator Denis Jenkinson.
Source: Mecum
722 Tribute
As SLR production neared its end, Mercedes-Benz released the 722 S series as a tribute to Moss’s famous Mille Miglia win. The “722” designation referenced the 7:22 a.m. start time of Moss’s car in the race. Only 150 examples of the 722 S were built, making it one of the rarest factory SLR variants.
Rarest Roadster
This particular car began life as a U.S.-specification 722 S Roadster, already an uncommon machine. It later became something far more exclusive. Out of just 25 McLaren Edition SLRs produced, only six were Roadsters, and this is believed to be the only U.S.-specification example among them. That alone places it in an exceptionally small production category.
Woking Conversion
Rather than being modified by an outside tuner, the car was shipped to McLaren’s headquarters in Woking, Surrey, England. There, McLaren Special Operations (MSO) transformed it into a bespoke McLaren Edition Roadster. This gives the car a unique provenance, as the changes were carried out by the same organization tied directly to the SLR’s original development.
One-Off Finish
Its most visible distinction is the custom two-tone paintwork combining McLaren Orange and black. The bright finish immediately separates it from standard SLR models. Carbon-fiber upgrades were also added throughout the body, including revised front fenders, door sills, mirrors, hood vents, front spoiler, and a redesigned rear decklid with an adjustable wing. An upgraded rear diffuser completed the aerodynamic revisions.
750 Horsepower
Under the long hood sits Mercedes-AMG’s supercharged 5.4-liter M155 V8. In this configuration, output was rated at 750 horsepower. Power came courtesy of the engine’s Lysholm twin-screw supercharger and dry-sump lubrication system, but this example also received unique upgrades such as revised engine management software, larger intercoolers, and a McLaren sports exhaust not fitted to the other McLaren Edition Roadsters.
Track-Tuned Hardware
The engine was paired with AMG’s Speedshift five-speed automatic transmission, designed to handle the V8’s substantial torque. Larger carbon-ceramic brakes from the 722 S package were retained, along with McLaren Orange-painted calipers featuring eight pistons in front and four in the rear. Suspension changes included stiffer springs, revised dampers, and a lower ride height for sharper handling.
Luxury Cabin
Despite its performance focus, the cabin remained luxurious. Black Nappa leather upholstery was combined with microfiber inserts, orange contrast stitching, matching orange seatbelts, trim accents, and embroidered McLaren logos. Dual-zone climate control, Xenon headlights, and the SLR’s signature side-exit exhaust system reminded occupants that this was still a high-end grand tourer.
Collector Status
The SLR McLaren has become increasingly appreciated as a product of a brief but fascinating partnership between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren. A one-of-one U.S.-spec 722 S McLaren Edition Roadster adds several extra layers of rarity: limited production, factory-backed customization, and bespoke specification.
This rare machine, now headed to auction at Mecum's upcoming Indy event taking place May 8th to 16th, is estimated to fetch upward of $1.1 million. Stay tuned to find out the sale results.
