When it was developed, German manufacturer Mercedes-Benz owned 40 percent of the McLaren Group. SLR stands for "Sport Leicht Rennsport" (Sport Light Racing), homage to the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR which served as the McLaren's inspiration.
Both coupé and roadster versions were offered. The SLR McLaren was succeeded by the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.