Using both lessons learned from SLR McLaren production and feedback from owners, McLaren Special Operations developed an upgrade package for those lucky owners to take their SLR to the next level. Dubbed the ‘McLaren Edition,’ these upgrades vastly improved the car’s handling and ride into a product more fitting of the fabled McLaren badge. Ride and handling was improved by fitting new springs, and dampers allowed for the ride height to be lowered by 10 millimeters.

Thanks to a new carbon-Kevlar front floor, 722 GT race car-style front wheel arch vents, a new rear diffuser, and a larger air brake, downforce was increased by 15 percent over the SLR 722 Edition. One artistic touch was restyled intakes above the exhausts and on the front bumper, which were shaped to resemble the McLaren logo. The engine was left unchanged, but McLaren opted to fit a lighter ceramic-coated exhaust system to enhance the car’s already impressive exhaust note.

An original Japanese-market SLR, this example was delivered new to its first owner in Tokyo in September of 2005 according to the accompanying service book. Acquired by the current owner in 2017, it was then decided that the car would be sent back to McLaren to receive the ‘McLaren Edition’ upgrades. This particular car also received 722 S-specification wheels and tinted lights, alongside a full interior retrim in black alcantara with red stitching and “MSO” lettering in the headrests as well as a new alcantara steering wheel. Most exceptional is the car’s paintwork, a rich metallic red that almost appears black in some light, making for a very dynamic and menacing appearance. Work was completed in 2019 and the car was returned to Japan, where it has resided ever since. Since completion of the work by MSO, the car has been driven approximately 1,200 km.

With only twenty-five cars upgraded by McLaren Special Operations to ‘McLaren Edition’ specification, these are seriously rare cars, benefitting from welcome upgrades that make for a truly exceptional driving experience. Beautifully specified, this example would be an incredible addition to any collection of modern supercars.