<< Prev Page 2 of 3 Next >> What really set the 300 SLR apart from its competition was the fantastic W196 derived straight eight engine that was mounted steeply inclined to the right to lower the frontal area. What made it special was the use of both direct Fuel Injection and 'desmodromic' valve actuation. Unlike a conventional setup, which uses a spring to close the valve, a desmodromic system uses the camshaft to open and close the valve. The valve springs are usually the weakest link and without springs the engine could rev considerably higher.
Compared to the W196, the biggest difference was a displacement increase from 2.5 to 3 litre. Unlike the W196 engine, the 300 SLR unit was not cast but constructed from sheets of a silicon and aluminium alloy known as silumin. Depending on the state of tune and fuel used, it produced anywhere from 276 bhp to 340 bhp. All this power was transferred to the rear wheels through a five speed gearbox that was in unit with the final drive. Using this 'transaxle' design moved more of the car's weight to the rear end, creating a better weight balance.
The high-tech rolling chassis was clothed in an open two-seater sports car body. To save weight it was constructed from elektron; an alloy consisting mostly of magnesium. The rear deck doubled as an air brake. The hydraulically operated system helped preserve the brakes and also added some downforce on the rear-end during cornering. The slippery shape of the roadster resulted in an impressive top speed of 300 km/h. Two chassis were fitted with a coupe body but these were never used in competition. One of the coupes did make several appearances in practice sessions at the end of the season. That car was later used on the road by chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut.
Mercedes-Benz' successful Grand Prix drivers were given double duty in 1955 as they would also represent the German marque in the World Sports Car Championship. Still preparing the new cars, the German team missed the opening rounds. The SLR's debut came at the Mille Miglia where four cars were entered. Moss and 'Jenks' won the road race a staggering 32 minutes ahead of Juan Manuel Fangio, who amazingly drove solo in his SLR. Hans Hermann and Karl Kling both retired from the race after an accident. << Prev Page 2 of 3 Next >>
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What really set the 300 SLR apart from its competition was the fantastic W196 derived straight eight engine that was mounted steeply inclined to the right to lower the frontal area. What made it special was the use of both direct Fuel Injection and 'desmodromic' valve actuation. Unlike a conventional setup, which uses a spring to close the valve, a desmodromic system uses the camshaft to open and close the valve. The valve springs are usually the weakest link and without springs the engine could rev considerably higher.