Critical Knowledge:- First convertible version of the SLR McLaren
- Built with a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis
- Structural rigidity is unchanged from the coupe
- Seats are leather-clad carbon-fiber buckets
- Supercharged V8 engine is rated at 626 hp
- Mercedes-Benz claims a 0 to 62 time of about 3.8 seconds
- Top speed is an estimated 208 mph, the same as the coupe
- The rear spoiler doubles as an "airbrake" at speed
- North American sales start in 2008
IntroductionThe Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster is the result of a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and its Formula 1 partner, McLaren. Inspired by the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR of 1955, the first SLR was a coupe introduced as a 2005 model. Offering exotic looks, build materials, and powerplant (with a price to match), the SLR quickly vaulted to the top tier of the exotic sport/GT class. For 2008, the SLR's roof can be replaced with a folding convertible soft top"without any reported loss in structural rigidity"to create the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster.
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