Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

The story

Mercedes and its Formula One partner McLaren built a carbon-fibre grand tourer with the engine set far back behind the front wheels. It was named after the 300 SLR racing car of 1955. Every one was assembled at McLaren's headquarters.

Inside

Carbon-fibre seats trimmed in leather, and a starter button hidden under a flap on top of the gear lever.

In period colours

Tap a colour to respray the drawing.

Meanwhile, in 2003

London's congestion charge began, England won the Rugby World Cup and Concorde retired.

Best-selling single of 2003: Where Is the Love? by The Black Eyed Peas

Before you buy a 2000s car

• Check the service history, especially for timing belts, clutches and cambelts where fitted.
• Electronics, air conditioning and suspension repairs can be expensive.
• Many parts are still made, but some low-volume models rely on specialists.

General notes, not specific to this model. Check the model's own history before buying.

Rivals of its day

Picked automatically: cars on sale at the same time with similar size, speed and price.

See the real thing

These open in a new tab: the car on Wikimedia Commons, the interior and the badge as Google image searches.