This Is Your Last Chance to Own the Final Mercedes SLR McLaren Stirling Moss
The Mercedes SLR McLaren Stirling Moss is the automotive equivalent of a rare diamond, with only 75 examples ever crafted. The last one of these illustrious models is set to hit the auction block, and the chance to own it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors and car enthusiasts alike.
Renowned British racing driver Sir Stirling Moss, who passed away in April 2020, has been a pivotal figure in the world of motorsport. Known for his remarkable skills behind the wheel, he represented Mercedes for many years, despite never clinching a Formula 1 world championship title. The SLR McLaren series celebrates his legacy, particularly recalling his awe-inspiring victory in the iconic 1955 Mille Miglia, where he drove the Mercedes 300 SLR to a record-breaking finish at an average speed of 157.651 km/h.
Mercedes and McLaren developed two special series featuring Moss's name: the SLR 722 and the ultra-exclusive Stirling Moss model. With only 321 instances of the SLR 722 produced, the Stirling Moss version stands as the rarest of all, with merely 75 units created. These remarkable cars are not just about their limited availability, but also about their historical significance and engineering prowess.
The SLR 722 was a more refined iteration of the production model, boasting a supercharged V8 engine that churned out an impressive 650 PS. However, the Stirling Moss variant took things to another level, showcasing radical design changes that made it a significant departure from the original SLR. Designed by Korean artist Yoon Il-Un, this car lacks a roof, windshield, or side windows, resembling a modern interpretation of the legendary 1955 racing car.
With its striking carbon fiber body and reduced weight of 1,620 kg, 200 kg lighter than the standard model, the Stirling Moss delivers an exhilarating driving experience. Equipped with the same muscular 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine as the SLR 722, it boasts a blistering top speed of 354 kph and an astonishing acceleration of 0 to 100 kph in a mere 3.5 seconds. Each drive promises not just performance, but also the thrill of being behind the wheel of an automotive masterpiece.
The Stirling Moss variant was officially unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2009, with a price tag of €892,500 at launch. All 75 units were manufactured in the same year, and presently, Bonhams is set to auction the last one, bearing the coveted production number 75. This particular vehicle was completed just before Christmas in 2009 and subsequently delivered to a customer in Switzerland on December 22, 2009, with an official registration following in March 2010.
This final Stirling Moss SLR features a vibrant bright red color, marked with the unique code 000U, along with custom options including gold-painted brake calipers and a luxurious red leather interior referred to as “Silver Arrow,” adorned with yellow stitching. Designed for comfort, the car's spacious driver and passenger seats reflect the owner's preference for elegance and style.
Despite being a prized possession, the owner, known for his loyalty to luxury brands like Mercedes and Aston Martin, did not extensively drive the car; it currently shows a mere 50 kilometers on the odometer. Fortunately, Bonhams assures prospective buyers that the vehicle is in mint condition and recently underwent a comprehensive inspection by recognized automotive specialists at Stratton Motor Company.
Along with the car, the auction listing comes with original paperwork, including the invalidated Swiss registration duplicate and a copy of the Mercedes-Benz Certificate of Conformity. The entire package is neatly stored in the original leather folder, featuring the manufacturer’s manuals. Bonhams anticipates that the final bid will reach between €1.5 million and €2 million—an almost double return on the original price for such a rare collector's item.
The much-anticipated auction is scheduled to take place during The Zoute sale in Belgium on October 6, 2024. Given the extraordinary exclusivity of the Stirling Moss SLR, this opportunity may not arise again soon—a true testament to the special relationship between a driver’s legacy and automotive excellence. The 75 purchasers of this limited series were meticulously chosen by Mercedes and McLaren, handpicked from among their most loyal customers and known collectors, further elevating its desirability and value.
In conclusion, the last Mercedes SLR McLaren Stirling Moss not only represents an automotive marvel but also encapsulates a rich history of racing, engineering prowess, and luxury car culture. Don't miss the chance to claim this extraordinary vehicle and become part of its illustrious legacy.