Prior to launching the mid-engine MP4-12C of 2011, newly established McLaren Automotive set to work enhancing the previous road car to feature its “Speed Mark” badge. Based on feedback from customers of the Mercedes-Benz SLR, McLaren Special Operations devised an exclusive upgrade package to improve the handling and ride of the super GT in addition to aggressive revised styling.

The headline results were a reduced kerb weight while downforce increased by 15 per cent over the already more sporting 722 Edition of the SLR. This was achieved by a new carbon-Kevlar front floor, 722 GT race car-style front wheel arch vents, a new rear diffuser, larger air brake, plus a lighter ceramic-coated exhaust system to improve the thunderous sound from the supercharged 5.4-litre V-8 engine.

Furthermore, new springs and dampers were equipped, plus the ride height lowered by 10 millimetres. In a final flourish, restyled intakes for the carbon fibre front bumper were shaped to resemble the McLaren logo. The upshot of these changes, finetuned by putting the car on a seven-post Formula 1 test rig, was far better road manners. Just 25 examples gained ‘McLaren Edition’ improvements, making the model rarer than the barchetta-style Stirling Moss, of which 75 were produced.

The car offered here started life as a conventional SLR finished in Crystal Galaxite Black Metallic over Black and Anthracite Exclusive Leather for the interior. Delivered new to the UK and registered on 7 December 2006, it was transformed by McLaren Special Operations at the end of 2011. In addition to the installation of the ‘McLaren Edition’ package, the car was specified with a carbon front splitter, mirrors, and kickplates.

McLaren also worked with the owner to devise the current Fire Black hue—this is the only SLR finished in the bespoke shade. To complement the aesthetic, it was fitted with black- wheels from the 722 S roadster model. The retail price for the ‘McLaren Edition’ upgrades totalled £162,496 on top of the SLR’s original purchase price.

Since June 2008, this car has been exclusively serviced by Mercedes-Benz of Brooklands, with the most recent completed in February 2024 at a cost of £4,378. Recorded with a full service history supported by a stamped service book, this car is offered with “The Owners’ Edition” coffee table book for the SLR, of which only 3,500 copies were printed.

Boasting single ownership from new and showing 23,746 miles at the time of cataloguing, this incredibly rare and enhanced take on the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren would make for a menacing addition to any collection.