2003 Frankfurt Motor Show

The biggest draw of the show was arguably the SLR, a 21st-century Gran Turismo coupe destined to earn a place in motoring history alongside the fabled namesake 1950s SLRs. Constructed almost entirely from carbon fiber, the stiff, lightweight SLR uses the latest F1-developed technologies to create a lust-worthy machine. Under the long, sloping hood is a 5.5-liter/626-horsepower supercharged V-8 paired with a next-generation AMG five-speed automatic with SportShift R. This combination is good for a claimed 3.8-second 0-60-mph time and a 207-mph terminal velocity. To achieve such high speeds, Mercedes tapped McLaren for its aerodynamic expertise, leading to a nearly smooth undercarriage, slick body surface, and speed-adjustable spoiler. Best put in your order soon, as there is already a two-year-long waiting list.

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