A McLaren coupe on the way
In the final installment of Mercedes-Benz and McLaren collaboration comes the Coupe and 722 Edition of the SLR. Automotive critics describe it as another technological wonder and say that it shares the same carbon-fiber-reinforced-plastic bones and 617-horsepower and a 5.5-liter supercharged V-8 engine. The significant difference is the Roadster’s semi-automatic cloth top that opens up to a far more pleasurable driving experience of the two-seater.
One critic also said that since the SLR tub is so stiff, no structures were added to match the Coupe’s torsional rigidity. Most alterations were made above the beltline like the new windshield frame, rear fenders, trunklid, doors and A-pillars integrating steel tubes as part of a safety system. Other safety features include two non-retractable hoops, six airbags and sophisticated traction control.
In a recent review of the vehicle, the critic said that under the ideal conditions, the Roadster reaches 206 mph. At U.S cruising speeds, the open cabin was quiet enough to enjoy the Bose stereo. The 575 pound-feet of torque was very powerful and gave a pleasing result. According to the critic, the Roadster felt just like an SLR-bloody fast and remarkably comfortable.
The ultratech components may be impressive but according to some critics that particular materials which put McLaren and Mercedes-Benz at the pinnacle of motorsport may be too much for public roads. Some complaints were the steering’s operation at slow speed was heavy and numb when it’s needed.