STUTTGART, Germany — Mercedes-Benz is closing another chapter in the long history of its storied sports cars as the last SLR Stirling Moss edition rolls off erstwhile partner McLaren's line in Woking, England.
Earlier this year, Mercedes unveiled the SLR Stirling Moss and announced the SLR would cease its five-year production run at the end of 2009.
The SLR Stirling Moss, built in a limited run of 75 cars, is named for the legendary British driver who piloted the original Mercedes SLR to a string of victories in the mid-'50s. Mercedes said it has built a total of 2,000 SLRs since production began in 2004.
The SLR Stirling Moss is sold as a speedster, without a top or windshield, and shares the potent 641-horsepower supercharged 5.5-liter V8 of the SLR 722. The car rockets from rest to 60 mph in less than 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 217 mph. Prices start at around $1.1 million.
Mercedes said ownership of an SLR also includes membership in the SLR Club, which the automaker refers to as an "exclusive community of gentleman-drivers [who] share a discerning, sophisticated lifestyle and the enjoyment of encounters with like-minded enthusiasts." Club members get to participate in a variety of driving events in Europe, including the annual Mille Miglia, and have access to dedicated Mercedes-Benz service personnel.
Inside Line says: What would Denise McCluggage have to say about that "gentleman drivers" crack? — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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