You could say that McLaren Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton has had a pretty remarkable 23rd birthday so far.

The second-place finisher for the 2007 F1 driver's championship was on hand today as McLaren rolled out his newest ride, the shiny 2008 MP4-23, in Stuttgart, Germany. The launch happened to coincide with Hamilton’s birthday.

(Click on the thumbnails below to check out the MP4-23 or through the jump to read on about Lewis Hamilton’s unforgettable birthday.)

The new car features a longer wheelbase than last year’s racer, as well as more tightly wrapped bodywork, and an all carbon fiber gearbox.

As if getting a new F1 car to play with wasn’t enough for the talented driver, Hamilton has been rewarded for his astonishing success in his 2007 rookie year with a mega contract as well.

British publication News of the World is reporting that McLaren has locked up its young superstar, signing Hamilton to a deal that is reportedly worth $138 million. The contract is said to run through the 2012 season, paying the driver an average of $27 million per year.

If correct, the contract would represent a massive pay raise for Hamilton, who made $700,000 plus points bonuses driving for McLaren last year. We think Lewis really owes it to himself to go out and buy something nice.

+ Autosport: McLaren launch the MP4-23 in Stuttgart

+ Motor Authority: Show me the money: Hamilton inks $138m McLaren deal

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