Having taken the fight to the likes of Porsche and Ferrari with the SLR McLaren, Mercedes-Benz was looking to celebrate Stirling Moss’ exceptional win at the 1955 Mille Miglia in a 300 SLR, wearing racing number 722. However, this would not be merely a cosmetic upgrade, and engineers to this opportunity to add even more power to the SLR. Introduced in 2008, the SLR McLaren 722 increased power output to 650 bhp, allowing for a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. Larger carbon-ceramic disc brakes were fitted with lighter 19-inch wheels, and the nose received an all-new diffuser and air splitter to improve downforce, as well as a modified front spoiler. Inside, the SLR 722 edition remained largely unchanged, save for some trim changes and new bucket seats and a steering wheel, which were both upholstered in leather and Alcantara.

One year later, the SLR 722 S was released, further increasing the intensity of the most powerful SLR produced by lowering the chassis by 10 millimeters, adding special 19-inch wheels, and applying a special Crystal Antimony Grey paint color. Mercedes-Benz produced both coupe and roadster versions of the SLR 722 and 722 S, providing owners with the choice of the security of a closed coupe or thrill of open-air motoring. The model presented here, the 722 S Roadster, was arguably the most desirable and only 150 examples would be produced, making it a truly rare automobile.

Finished in Crystal Antimony Grey over a Semi-Aniline leather interior in Black, this particular SLR 722 S Roadster is offered from its first and only owner in Belgium who bought the car new in Germany. Driven just 15,000 km from new, the car has always been properly maintained and accompanied by various service invoices evidencing its routine service history. The car’s most recent service was carried out by Mercedes-Benz Brussels at a cost of €10,784.78 in February 2020 and invoices for this work are on file.

Taking the already excellent SLR Roadster platform and adding even more performance, this is undoubtedly one of the most significant and exciting vehicles of the 21st century to wear the Mercedes-Benz or McLaren badge. Even with its incredible performance, the 722 S Roadster is versatile enough to be both driven in anger on special occasions and used on a regular basis as a warm-weather grand-tourer. A truly incredible automobile in all regards, this SLR 722 S is in excellent condition, having been well cared for by just one owner from new, and would be an excellent addition to any collection for the enthusiast looking for a rare, comfortable, convertible to enjoy at high speeds over long distances.