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Global Viewpoints
Mercedes-Benz opens up the SLR
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As if the remarkable Mercedes-Benz SLR coupe was not enough, there is now a roadster version of the 410-kW (557-hp) 320-km/h (200-mph) supercar. Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the SLR Roadster design study incorporates the coupe's extraordinarily long hood and its vertically opening doors (a version of the "gullwing" design of the 1950s Mercedes 300SL), but with a folding roof made of light-transmissive polyester, claimed as a first application of such material in a car. The result is that even with the roof closed, the car continues to provide some of the ambience of the open-top mode. The SLR's roof is "vapor-plated" with aluminum and finished in the same color as the car's bodywork to generate a coupe-like appearance — achieved with a folding hardtop on the smaller and successful Mercedes-Benz SLK. The rear section can be opened, landaulet-fashion, to provide what Mercedes describes as "protection and direct contact with open air."
Although the Roadster looks very similar to the fixed-head coupe, some redesign has been necessary. The trunk lid is smaller and positioned higher, which suits the car well. Re-shaping of the trunk area has contributed to extra aerodynamic efficiency, says Mercedes. However, because the airflow of open-top vehicles tends to break away earlier than closed ones, reducing rear axle down-force, the SLR Roadster gets a diffuser that echoes F1 technology. Special intake channels direct the flow of air to the rear of the vehicle and to double wings — comparable with the front wings of F1 cars. Three longitudinal guides in the diffuser channels ensure a precisely metered flow of air and guarantee optimum rear-axle down-force. The taillamps get distinctive treatment on the Roadster. LEDs are positioned in two sections and housed behind what Mercedes calls "insect eye-style" chrome mesh, while an additional light unit spans the width of the body above the diffuser and contains neon-reversing and fog lamps. LEDs illuminate the rear license plate.
The car incorporates the advanced technology and design features of the SLR Coupe, including carbon-fiber and aluminum bodywork, fiber-reinforced ceramic brakes, and Xenon headlights with electronically controlled tracking, including cornering/turning lights. The interior is as individualistic as that of the Coupe, with one-piece carbon seats that incorporate individual adjustment of the backrest, said to be the first example of this facility on a one-piece contoured seat. Safety additions for the Roadster include rollover bars behind the seat, a la SLK.
Stuart Birch
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Under the hood and inside the SLR Roadster.
Roadster and Coupe versions of the Mercedes-Benz SLR with 1955 SLR sports racing car (background).