Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition
The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition was a more focused, more powerful version of the already formidable SLR McLaren. Its name paid tribute to one of the most legendary performances in motorsport history: Stirling Moss and navigator Denis Jenkinson's victorious drive in the 1955 Mille Miglia aboard a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR, car number 722 (their start time of 7:22 AM).
The 722 Edition's M155 supercharged V8 received modifications that increased output from 626 to 650 horsepower, with torque rising to 605 lb-ft. These gains were achieved through revised supercharger boost, modified engine management software, and optimized exhaust flow. The five-speed automatic transmission received new software for sharper, more aggressive shift patterns.
The chassis was comprehensively revised for a more sporting character. The suspension was lowered by 10mm, with stiffer springs and recalibrated dampers. A 19-inch wheel package with wider rear tires improved grip, while the COMAND system programming was revised to reflect the car's more aggressive personality. The steering was quickened slightly, and the stability control system was recalibrated to allow more spirited driving before intervening.
These changes transformed the SLR's character markedly. Where the standard car was a refined grand tourer that happened to be extremely fast, the 722 Edition was a more intense, more engaging driving experience that rewarded enthusiastic inputs. The ride was noticeably firmer, the engine response sharper, and the overall demeanor more urgent.
Performance improved accordingly. The 722 Edition could reach 60 mph from rest in 3.6 seconds (marginally quicker than the standard car) and its top speed increased to 209 mph. Perhaps more significantly, the car felt faster and more responsive in real-world driving, where the chassis and transmission improvements were most apparent.
Visually, the 722 Edition was distinguished by its exclusive Crystal Antimony Grey paint, a dark silver-grey that highlighted the car's muscular lines. Red-painted brake calipers, carbon fiber mirror housings, and subtle '722' badging completed the exterior differentiation. The interior featured black leather with red stitching and alcantara inserts, along with a numbered plaque confirming the car's place in the limited production run.
McLaren produced 150 examples of the 722 Edition coupe and 150 examples of the subsequent 722 S Roadster, making these among the most exclusive SLR variants. The 722 Edition is particularly sought after by collectors who value its combination of enhanced performance, motorsport homage, and rarity.
Today, the 722 Edition commands a significant premium over the standard SLR McLaren. Its rarer production, enhanced specification, and the powerful emotional connection to Stirling Moss's Mille Miglia victory make it one of the most desirable modern Mercedes-Benz performance cars.
Verify 722 Edition authenticity through the numbered plaque and production records. The Crystal Antimony Grey paint is exclusive to this variant. All mechanical checks applicable to the standard SLR apply, plus inspection of the firmer 722-specific suspension components. Low-mileage, accident-free examples in original condition are most valuable. Full McLaren service history is essential.
150 coupes were hand-assembled at McLaren's facility in Woking, England. An additional 150 722 S Roadster variants were also produced. Each car bore a numbered plaque on the center console.