It’s a mouthful but the Mercedes‑AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung has been developed with one thing in mid — performance.
As desirable as it may be, however, it begs the question: why is Mercedes, AMG or both developing vehicles like this when clearly their time has passed?
Surely, the same result could be achieved with an electric platform, one that’s even quicker and more agile?
Benz says this road-legal high-performance coupe delivers an uncompromising driving experience on winding roads and closed race circuits.
It’s powered by a 475kW biturbo V8 with pure rear wheel drive, significantly reduced weight and a chassis setup engineered for precision.
A unique wide-body concept with wider tracks, numerous carbon fibre components and purpose-developed aerodynamics further enhances the vehicle’s dynamic potential.
The CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is the second model in the exclusive Mythos Series, dedicated to exceptionally rare collector vehicles.
It will be limited to just 250 examples worldwide and featuring an open two-seat configuration without a roof or windscreen.
Each vehicle is hand-built in Affalterbach based on a CLE 53 platform, continuing AMG’s long tradition of exclusive craftsmanship that has produced icons such as the AMG 300 CE 6.0 “The Hammer”.
The extensively enhanced AMG M177 EVO 4.0‑litre biturbo V8 produces 475kW of power and 850Nm of torque, available across a broad range from 2500 to 4500 rpm.
The engine’s flat-plane crankshaft reduces rotating mass, improves revving characteristics and promotes exceptional throttle response, further supported by dedicated engine mapping.
To ensure thermal stability even under extreme loads, the V8 features three separate cooling circuits: a high-temperature circuit for the engine itself, and two low-temperature circuits for charge air and transmission oil cooling as well as the 48‑volt components.
In the Mercedes‑AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, these systems have been specifically enhanced to meet the demands of an exceptionally challenging operating profile, ranging from intensive racetrack use to very high ambient temperatures.
The characteristic V8 soundtrack is further amplified by a bespoke high-performance exhaust system featuring increased flow capacity and a sound signature engineered with a strong emotional focus.
The cold-end design was developed in collaboration with Akrapovič, while the extensive use of titanium also contributes to weight reduction.
One of the most fundamental changes is the switch to rear wheel drive, which reduces weight while fundamentally altering the car’s dynamic character.
An electronically controlled limited slip rear differential optimises torque distribution between the rear wheels through variable locking action based on the driving situation.
This enhances traction, driving stability and overall vehicle dynamics.
Under suitable driving conditions, it can also support controlled drifting.
The standard AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission delivers either sporty, rapid gear changes or exceptionally smooth and almost imperceptible shifts.
Thanks to its nine forward gears, the engine operates within its optimum rev range particularly frequently.
The suspension has likewise been specifically optimised for the car.
It features a steel sprung coil-over suspension system jointly developed by Mercedes‑AMG and KW automotive.
The setup enables exceptionally precise tuning to suit driving style, circuit characteristics, individual preferences and intended use.
The AMG Ceramic High-Performance Composite Braking System is engineered for extreme loads and delivers consistently high braking performance, even during intensive racetrack use.
The body has been engineered entirely with maximum driving dynamics and performance in mind.
The front diffuser, fender louvres, underbody measures and rear wing form a fully integrated aerodynamic package.
For maximum differentiation between everyday usability and track performance, the front diffuser can be manually adjusted via three fasteners between two positions: “Street” and “Race,” with the latter intended exclusively for the racetrack.
Comfort plays second fiddle to performance considerations inside the cabin.
An unwavering focus on lightweight construction and driving dynamics has seen the rear seats and acoustic insulation materials.
Comfort features have been reduced and the sound system has been simplified to save weight.
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