duPont REGISTRY Live presents this 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster, a low-mileage example showing just 2,695 miles and finished in Crystal Galaxite Black over a black Silver Arrow leather interior. Developed as a joint program between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive in the 2000s, and assembled at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, England, the SLR represents a distinct chapter in modern supercar development. Powered by a hand-built supercharged 5.4-liter V8 and constructed around a carbon fiber monocoque, this Roadster combines grand touring usability with Formula 1-derived engineering. With a clean multi-state history and no reported accidents, this open-top supercar presents as a well-preserved example of one of the most unique collaborations of its era.

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster stands apart from its contemporaries, shaped by engineering principles influenced in part by Gordon Murray, with a clear emphasis on weight distribution, aerodynamics, and structural integrity. Developed during the peak of the Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Formula 1 partnership, the SLR blends motorsport-derived construction with long-distance touring capability.

 

At its core sits the M155 5.4-liter supercharged V8 brought to life via a fighter-jet style flip-up push button starter.  It puts out 617 horsepower and 575 pound-feet of torque. Featuring all-aluminum construction, dry-sump lubrication, and a Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger, the engine delivers immediate response and sustained high-speed performance. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 5-speed AMG Speedshift R automatic transmission, allowing for a 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.7 seconds and a top speed matched with the SLR coupe's 207 mph.

 

The SLR’s carbon fiber monocoque chassis and crash structures were advanced for the time, particularly in a convertible configuration. The long front-mid-engine layout and rear-mounted transaxle contribute to balanced weight distribution (49:51), while the adaptive rear air brake deploys under braking to enhance stability. Carbon-ceramic brakes with Sensotronic Brake Control provide consistent stopping power.

 

Visually, the SLR is defined by function as much as form. The extended carbon fiber clamshell hood, butterfly doors, and integrated aerodynamic elements reflect its engineering priorities. Twin side-exit exhausts positioned behind the front wheels produce a truly distinctive sound profile, one that is both mechanical and raw. This example is equipped with the desirable 19-inch turbine-style wheels, further emphasizing its period-correct specification.

 

The Roadster variant retains the coupe’s structural rigidity while introducing a semi-automatic soft top, allowing open-air driving (the soft top deploys in under 10 seconds) without compromising the car’s core performance characteristics. Finished in Crystal Galaxite Black, this example presents a restrained and cohesive exterior configuration.

 

Inside, the cockpit balances luxury and sportiness. Carbon fiber bucket seats trimmed in Silver Arrow leather are paired with aluminum accents and a driver-focused layout courtesy of McLaren-branded analog gauges. Features like dual-zone climate control, a Bose sound system, the COMAND interface, and a usable trunk offering between  7 and 10 cubic feet really expand the SLR Roadster’s ability as a usable GT car.

 

This example has also received recent servicing, with fuel injectors, spark plugs, and ignition coils replaced in 2019, followed by a new starter and battery in 2021, supporting continued usability and reliability.

 

While production of the SLR McLaren Roadster is estimated to be between approximately 520 and 670 units worldwide. With fewer coming Stateside, it is firmly within low-volume exotic territory. Despite its engineering pedigree, limited production, and unique place in automotive history, the model remains relatively undervalued today, compared to its contemporaries. With low mileage, a clean history, and a well-preserved configuration, this example represents a compelling opportunity to acquire one of the most underrated supercars from the 2000s.
 

Key Features

 

 

Exterior

 

 

Interior

 

 

Mechanical

 

 

Items Included in Sale