Mercedes-AMG Unveils CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung for the Mythos Series

Mercedes-AMG has officially revealed the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, a track-focused, limited-edition coupe that serves as the second entry in the highly exclusive Mercedes-Benz Mythos Series. Developed heavily at the AMG headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany, the vehicle departs from traditional product briefs by transforming the existing CLE platform into a dedicated, rear-wheel-drive performance machine. With global production capped at an exceptionally low volume, the vehicle strips away luxury conveniences such as rear seating and all-wheel-drive hardware in favour of rigorous lightweight construction, functional aerodynamic styling, and an uprated V8 powertrain. The unveiling highlights a return to purist driving dynamics for the brand, catering directly to collectors and motorsport enthusiasts seeking a high-performance track vehicle that remains fully road-legal.

Key Points

• The Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is limited to just 30 units worldwide, all of which are already sold out.
• The vehicle features a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine producing 646 PS, sending power exclusively to the rear wheels.
• Engineers achieved a weight reduction of approximately 170 kilograms by removing the all-wheel-drive system and interior components like rear seats.

Powertrain Modifications and RWD Architecture

At the core of the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is the extensively modified AMG M177 EVO 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine. The engine utilises a flat-plane crankshaft designed to reduce rotating mass, improve revving characteristics, and deliver sharper throttle response. To manage thermal loads during intensive track use, engineers integrated three separate cooling circuits: a high-temperature circuit for the engine block, alongside two low-temperature circuits for the charge-air, transmission oil, and 48-volt electrical components. The exhaust note is routed through a bespoke titanium high-performance exhaust system developed in collaboration with Akrapovič, which also contributes to the overall weight reduction. The culmination of these engineering adjustments results in substantial performance outputs that outpace the standard CLE variants.

Following the engine performance figures, one of the most fundamental shifts in the vehicle’s design is the complete removal of the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system found in the donor car. Power is transmitted exclusively to the rear axle, guided by an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential that manages torque distribution based on traction demands. This rear-wheel-drive conversion fundamentally alters the vehicle’s dynamic character, dropping considerable mass from the front axle to improve turn-in response. The transmission features a revised Launch Control system adapted specifically for this two-wheel-drive layout, alongside a double-declutch function for rapid downshifts.

Chassis Tuning and Aerodynamics

To support the increased power and altered weight distribution, the bodyshell of the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung underwent substantial modifications to increase structural rigidity. The suspension relies on a purpose-developed steel coilover setup with four-way adjustable damper technology. This allows the driver to independently configure low-speed and high-speed rebound and compression settings, tailoring the chassis response for uneven road surfaces or high-speed track conditions. Braking is handled by a ceramic-composite system, featuring 16.5-inch discs with six-piston floating calipers at the front and 14.2-inch discs with single-piston calipers at the rear. The exterior design complements these mechanical changes with several specific aerodynamic and weight-saving additions.

• A widened front and rear track, adding roughly 60 millimetres (2.4 inches) across the beam, which accommodates 20×11-inch front and 20×12-inch rear wheels.
• An adjustable front diffuser, integrated airflow channels next to the headlights, and fender louvres to optimise downforce and brake cooling.
• A large, adjustable rear wing paired with a deep rear diffuser and stacked quad exhausts.
• Lightweight carbon fibre door panels, ultra-light bucket seats, and the removal of standard acoustic insulation.
• An integrated rear roll cage replacing the rear seats, providing both occupant safety and enhanced structural rigidity.

These exterior and interior alterations collectively reduce the kerb weight by approximately 170 kilograms compared to the standard CLE 53. Inside the cabin, convenience features have been stripped back; a simplified sound system is utilised, and various driver-assist modules have been deleted. The remaining vehicle controls are operated directly from a Dinamica microfibre steering wheel, reinforcing the strict motorsport focus of the cabin environment.

Mythos Exclusivity and Local Market Context

The CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung marks the second entry in the Mercedes-Benz Mythos Series, following the PureSpeed open-top model introduced earlier. Conceived primarily as a platform for extremely rare collector vehicles, the Mythos badge signifies models that bypass traditional product planning in favour of specialised, low-volume production. In the case of the CLE 646, AMG has capped total global production at just 30 units. According to reports from the manufacturer, all 30 examples were allocated and sold to pre-selected clients before the vehicle was publicly unveiled.

In Malaysia, the Mercedes-AMG brand maintains a strong foothold among luxury automotive consumers, with standard high-performance models and previous Black Series editions frequently making their way to local roads. However, the extreme scarcity of the Mythos Series makes an official local allocation highly unlikely. If a unit were to be imported into Malaysia via private or grey market channels, the financial premium would be substantial. While international base pricing remains unconfirmed by Mercedes-Benz, industry analysts suggest a starting figure well exceeding RM2.5 million before any local taxes. Once Malaysian import duties, excise taxes, and collector markups are factored in, market observers speculate that a registered, on-the-road unit in Malaysia could command a price tag upwards of RM7.5 million. The model stands as a clear indicator of the continuing demand for exclusive, combustion-powered track vehicles among global automotive collectors.