- Production version of Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed looks almost exactly like the concept debuted in May
- We finally get to know some specs: 577 hp, out of a 4.0-litre Biturbo V8 sourced from the SL 63
- Only 250 examples will be made, and pricing is still being kept under wraps
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Mercedes-Benz took advantage of the recently concluded Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to unveil its latest creation. Dubbed the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed, it is the first model in the German carmaker’s Mythos series — and that means an exclusive production run and a car that celebrates the pinnacle of automotive design, engineering, and performance. (It’s similar in principle to what Ferrari does with its Icona Series models.)
The PureSpeed first broke cover as a concept at the Monaco Grand Prix in May 2024, and now we’ve got a look at the full production version. The sleek, low-slung roadster embraces an unfiltered driving experience with a radical design that immediately stands out with its roofless profile. There’s no windshield, either. Instead, the car is fitted with a steel pillar that emulates the protective HALO device used by Formula One cars since 2018.
According to Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, the PureSpeed is the “most direct way to experience performance and fun at the wheel” — just make sure you have your helmet handy. Yes, you get two aerodynamically optimized helmets with your purchase. They feature an intercom system so the car’s occupants can communicate with each other.
Apart from the HALO system, other design highlights of the PureSpeed include a low front end characterized by a distinctive shark nose and a wide air intake, similar to the Mercedes-AMG One. The PureSpeed’s aerodynamic profile is highlighted by carbon-fibre winglets on the front splitter, side skirts, and rear bumper, where a substantial diffuser resides. An active rear wing and underbody elements also help optimize airflow for maximum downforce.
The PureSpeed rides on 21-inch forged aluminum wheels with carbon-fibre covers: they’re closed at the rear to reduce drag; and open at the front to enhance brake cooling.
The Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed is a road rocket that can hit 62 mph (100 km/h) from zero in 3.6 seconds, and continue on to a 196-mph (315-km/h) top speed. Central to that performance is a formidable 4.0-litre Biturbo V8 from the new SL 63. The powerplant cranks out 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, fed to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The interior is strongly influenced by the SL63, with a similar placement for the infotainment screen and climate control vents. The luxury is what you would expect from a premium Mercedes Benz model, with a unique two-tone layout complete with plush leather trimmings, decorative stitching, and carbon-fibre accents. A custom IWC Schaffhausen analog clock sits atop the dashboard on a special carbon-fibre base.
Complementing the exclusive feel of the interior is a badge in the centre console that reads “1 out of 250,” indicating this model is part of the strictly limited Mythos Series.
An optional “motorsports styling package” will be offered with the PureSpeed. It gives the car a striking two-tone paint scheme — Le Mans red fading into graphite grey at the rear, adorned with repeating AMG logos. This colourway pays homage to the 1924 Targa Florio-winning Mercedes race car, with the number 10 — a nod to the historic vehicle — emblazoned on the PureSpeed.
Only 250 examples of the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed will be made. There is no word on the pricing yet, but it is reasonable to expect a sticker price at a significant premium over the CDN$225,000 (US$159,000) MSRP of the Mercedes-AMG SL63 on which it’s based.
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