1999 Mercedes-Benz Vision SLR

This Vision SLR is the begining of a joint project between DaimlerChrysler and McLaren Cars Ltd. The two companies have invested over 200 million Euros to make a supercar that will rival the McLaren F1. The SLR will reflect the heritage, philosophies and styling of Mercedes-Benz and will be produced utilising the latest state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques at the new TAG McLaren facilities currently under construction in Woking, England.

Through the concept of the Mercedes-Benz SLR, DaimlerChrysler and McLaren intend to ensure the transfer of technology and image from their successful Formula 1 partnership to series production, while at the same time reviving the myth of the Silver Arrows with this super sports car.

Prof. Jürgen Hubbert, the DaimlerChrysler board member responsible for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars: By designing and producing the Mercedes-Benz SLR, we will once again underline our globally leading position in the field of technical innovations. The Mercedes-Benz SLR is an incomparable combination of the brand’s characteristic design, future-oriented innovation and unparalleled safety, quality and performance – in this way, it will become the benchmark for 21st Century sports cars. McLaren is the ideal partner for us to develop and produce the Mercedes-Benz SLR in close cooperation.

The fascinating bodywork design, clearly identifying the super sports car as a Mercedes-Benz, is characterised by the balanced integration of traditional and modern styling elements. The front section – with Mercedes’ characteristic four-eye face-, arrow-shaped front and distinctive double wings at the lower tip of the front end – reflects the fascination of the current McLaren Mercedes Silver Arrow design.

Story by Daimler Chrysler, edited by Supercars.net

In Detail

submitted by	Richard Owen
type	Concept / Prototype Car
built at	Germany
engine	Supercharged V8
valvetrain	SOHC 3 Valves / Cyl.
displacement	5439 cc / 331.9 in³
power	415.4 kw / 557.1 bhp @ 6500 rpm
specific output	102.43 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	397.93 bhp per tonne
torque	720.0 nm / 531.0 ft lbs @ 4000 rpm
driven wheels	Front Engine / RWD
front tires	245/35/ZR-19
rear tires	285/30ZR-20
front wheels	F 48.3 x 21.6 cm / 19.0 x 8.5 in
rear wheels	R 50.8 x 25.4 cm / 20.0 x 10.0 in
steering	Rack & Pinion w/Power Assist
curb weight	1400 kg / 3086 lbs
wheelbase	2660 mm / 104.7 in
front track	1546 mm / 60.9 in
rear track	1600 mm / 63.0 in
length	4564 mm / 179.7 in
width	1878 mm / 73.9 in
height	1242 mm / 48.9 in
transmission	5-Speed Auto
top speed	~318.7 kph / 198.0 mph
0 – 60 mph	~4.2 seconds