Among the compelling class supercars that emerged following the turn of the millennium, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster is uniquely intriguing. Its basis was the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, which debuted in 2003; developed jointly by Mercedes-Benz and its then-Formula 1 partner McLaren, the car clearly drew from the former manufacturer’s contemporary design language and world-class engineering, yet it was assembled at the latter’s facility in Woking, England.

This car was a true exotic, with massive power and a 200-plus mph top speed—and, yes, eye-catching “butterfly” doors. Unlike ostensible competitors such as the Porsche Carrera GT, however, the SLR McLaren featured a front-mid-engine chassis configuration and boasted everyday usability more typical of a traditional grand tourer. Notably, it was also McLaren’s first foray into roadgoing automobiles after the legendary McLaren F1’s production run concluded.

The 722 Edition, launched as a coupe in 2006 and a Roadster in 2009, took the already impressive model to the next level: Its supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 engine, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, was reworked to produce 641 horsepower and 605 pound-feet of torque. Zero-to-62 mph acceleration took just 3.1 seconds, and top speed was a screaming 208 mph. Further enhancements included a lower, stiffer suspension and lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels. New bucket seats and a steering wheel, both upholstered in semi-aniline leather and Alcantara, were found in the cabin.

The model’s name and subtle “722” badging was highly significant, referencing the starting number of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Stirling Moss and co-driver Denis Jenkinson piloted to victory in the 1955 Mille Miglia. What could be a more fitting tribute to this legendary moment in motorsport history, in which British drivers achieved triumph in a German racing machine, than a limited-edition German-British supercar?

With just 150 SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster examples produced, the model was destined from the start to be exclusive. This Canada-delivery example, finished in Crystal Laurite Silver over black interior accented by red seat belts and stitching, was desirably equipped with the larger braking system; red calipers are visible behind its 19-inch black wheels.

This particular car is further distinguished by its excellent state of preservation and history of use, having been driven fewer than 15,200 km (~9,450 mi) at time of cataloguing. Invoices on file indicate a service and the fitment of two new rear tires performed in May 2016 by Crown Eurocars of St. Petersburg, Florida. An inspection and oil change were performed by Mercedes-Benz of Sarasota, Florida, March 2020.

Now offered from the Fox Collection, this 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster is a nod to Mercedes-Benz’s illustrious racing past, and a celebration of its Formula 1 partnership with McLaren. Blending the best attributes of two of the world’s top-tier automakers—each with a rich history of motorsports success—like no other car before or since, it offers its next owner a truly distinctive combination or rarity, luxury, and ultimate performance.