The SLR is better, trust me (other members like to bash on the SLR). The SLR is faster in real life, mainly because of the torque advantage. It also handles better on the track. On the streets the McMerc rides really smooth like all Mercs even on the streets of New York City, but since it has Carbon Ceramic Brakes the breaks tend to squeak. You need to heat up the brakes in order to stop the squeaking (Try braking the SLR really hard to heat them up). Also, the early SLR's had touchy brakes this problem was fixed on SLRs built after 9/04.
In terms of realibility, the SLR is better compared to 599 GTB. Lots of 599s including my co-workers old 599 had welding problems. The interior rattles alot. This goes for all Ferrari's. Servicing a 599 cost on average around $10000 to $12000 USD depending on what needs to be serviced. The SLR needs to be serviced every 15000 miles and it cost about $8000 to $10000 USD. The SLR is less mantinence and more usable as a everyday supercar. The Transmission in the Ferrari 599 is much better than the SLR. In the 599 you need to service the Transmission Clutch which is very expensive. In the SLR you will have to replace the Supercharger Clutch after a certain amount of miles which is also very expensive. Lots of people say that the SLR is much heavier than 599, but its only 50 kilos heavier.
I have driven the SLR 3 times, it takes time to get used to. If you spend time with it you'll realize that it's a really great car. They both attract quite a bit of attention. Once you open the SLR door everyone stares at you.
I have to admit, the 599 GTB is more fun to drive than the SLR. The SLR is more of a GT car. In conclusion, I think the SLR is much better than 599 GTB. The SLR is very underrated for what it puts out.
P.S. I almost purchased a 2005 Silver Arrow SLR from Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan over the summer, but i decided to wait until the price dropped a little more. The SLR is still in the Showroom today. Its like she waiting for me to take her.
Don't tell anyone.
