Sports cars or the racing cars have been a major focus of innovation in the automobile industry. Features that are now commonplace, such as disc brakes, turbochargers, and even safety belts, were first used on only the competition and the sport cars. Research in sport cars has contributed to a new understanding of engine performance, aerodynamics, tyre adhesion, and has led to the development of ultra light materials like the carbon fiber for the car bodies.
SLR is best described as a “super car “. With a top speed of 207.5 mph, the SLR is also described by many auto experts to be the fastest car with automatic transmission gear box. The Mercedes Benz SLR come under the class of a “sports car” or what is known as a “grand tourer”. The Mercedes–Benz SLR derives inspiration from Mercedes Benz 300 SLR which is a 1955 model. Mercedes made an announcement in April 2008 that they have ceased the production of SLR. The last of the SLR has left the production line end of 2007. The beginning of 2009 will see the discontinuation of the roadster version too.
The SLR has a look which is different from most of the supercars of its kind. Many of the super cars have the engine which is mounted behind the driver. But the SLR has a front mounted engine which gives it a distinctive shape. On the outside the SLR has a sleek and trendy look. But under the hood it has a powerful 5.5 liter, 617 HP engines, which is good enough to take the car from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds.
In order to handle all that power with ease, the SLR is provided with a unique feature which is the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) This system constantly monitors all the vital functions of the car at all the times. EPS selectively controls the braking of the vehicle, thus it is ensured the car never goes out of the control of the driver. The chassis or the frame, on which the engine is mounted, has a special design.
It is made from carbon fiber. This is an ultra light and at the same time a tough material. The frame is in the form of tubes and pockets. This means that it can absorb four times as much energy as steel, in the most unlikely event of a crash. This is a typical feature of a formula one car. The side body panels are also made up of carbon fiber reinforced with plastic.
Mercedes always intended SLR to be a hybrid car which is powerful, fast and at the same time be very comfortable for city driving. Hence it is loaded with features like power seats, power windows and power locks. A very effective air conditioning system and the premium sound system add to the luxury.
The safety aspect is taken care of in the SLR which comes with six air bags to protect the driver and the passengers from impacts in eight directions. The switches that control the air brakes and the transmission are appropriately mounted. The shifting thumb switches are located on the steering wheel which makes driving of the SLR a pleasant experience.
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