As SLR production comes to an end in 2009, it appears Mercedes McLaren are scrambling to compensate poor sales with yet another SLR variant in the form of a 722 Edition Roadster. Joining the already long list of variants which include the 650hp / 478kW SLR 722 Edition, SLR 722 GT, SLR Roadster and the final SLR Speedster currently in development, the 722 Roadster seems like a desperate attempt.

In these spy photos, which appear to be taken outside of an AMG facility, judging by all of the Mercedes-AMG models littering the street, we can see an SLR Roadster carrying all of the visual cues distinctive of the SLR 722 Edition. They include palladium grey 19-inch forged-aluminium wheels, clear coat painted carbon fiber front lip spoiler, red brake calipers and the large brake discs. Also the black-painted air outlets on the bonnet, not to mention the palladium grey-trimmed taillight clusters.

 

I like the SLR and the 722 in a roadster version is as good as it gets from MB. But there is a LOT of competition in this price range. I can think of several cars that I would take before an SLR. I think that is why sales have been such a disappointment - there is just too much that can be had for between $400K - $500K. You really need something that stands out. But for some, the SLR is absolutely their cup of tea. For those people, this is a dream come true . . . If you can afford it!!