Mercedes-Benz is stepping into a bold new chapter with the introduction of the AMG PureSpeed, a striking vehicle that's set to captivate both enthusiasts and collectors alike. This extraordinary model, based on the iconic SL, has been making headlines ever since its world premiere in Monaco earlier this year. But there's more to this ultra-exclusive car than meets the eye—this is the first model under the "Mythos" lineup, a new series of vehicles from Mercedes that are set to redefine luxury and exclusivity.
The PureSpeed instantly stands out thanks to its radical design choices. Gone is the roof, along with the A-pillars and windshield, creating a sleek, open-top sports car that dares to be different. With its chopped-off roof, the PureSpeed offers a futuristic, minimalist approach to the traditional SL design. Without a windshield, it's more of an art piece than a daily driver, but one that could easily become the centerpiece of any prestigious collection.
The Formula 1-inspired halo, a curved bar fixed to the body for aerodynamic and safety purposes, remains a standout feature. It’s a bold nod to motorsport, signaling that this car isn’t just for show; it has performance DNA running through its veins. As an added touch of exclusivity, each PureSpeed comes bundled with two helmets, encouraging drivers to embrace the wind-in-your-hair experience.
The PureSpeed has recently been spotted during its final testing phase, giving the public a closer look at the near-production model. Mercedes-AMG has chosen the scenic roads of northern Italy to put the car through its paces. With more than 1,864 miles of testing on the odometer, it’s clear that while this car may not be entirely new (as it's a modified SL), every detail is being fine-tuned to perfection. After these road tests, the prototypes are set to be evaluated at the legendary Nardò track in southern Italy, known for pushing high-performance vehicles to their limits.
While the car has been spotted camouflaged, it appears almost identical to the one revealed in May. With its long, sweeping lines and aggressive stance, it’s hard to imagine anyone mistaking the PureSpeed for anything else on the road.
The concept of a roofless supercar isn't entirely new—vehicles like the SLR Stirling Moss, the McLaren Elva, and Ferrari’s Monza SP1/SP2 have all explored this design territory before. However, Mercedes-AMG has taken that formula and added its unique flair. The PureSpeed may not offer the same level of adrenaline-pumping excitement as the SLR Stirling Moss, but its design is daring enough to demand attention. It’s a car that turns heads, whether it's zipping along the streets of Italy or sitting in a millionaire's garage.
Mercedes-AMG has announced that just 250 units of the AMG PureSpeed will be produced, making it significantly more accessible than the SLR Stirling Moss, of which only 75 were built. Despite this, the PureSpeed will remain an ultra-rare commodity, aimed at a niche market of “enthusiasts and collectors” who appreciate finely crafted, limited-edition cars.
With the PureSpeed serving as the inaugural model of Mercedes' Mythos series, expectations are sky-high for what’s next. The Mythos lineup promises a collection of highly exclusive, low-volume vehicles that will push the boundaries of design, performance, and desirability. By collaborating with renowned design house Pininfarina, Mercedes-Benz is ensuring that these vehicles will be a cut above the rest, with the craftsmanship and attention to detail typically reserved for the most elite of automotive creations.
While it may not be as historically significant as the SLR Stirling Moss, the AMG PureSpeed is a statement of intent for Mercedes-AMG. It combines cutting-edge design with exclusivity, marking the beginning of a new era for the brand under the Mythos banner. The PureSpeed is destined to be a collector's dream, one that may only be seen on the streets once in a blue moon—but when it does, it will certainly make an unforgettable impression.
Wael is an automotive content writer specializes in creating written content for Motor 283. Producing a wide range of content, including blog posts, articles, product descriptions, reviews, and technical guides related to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles, with an unprecedented passion for cars, and motorcycles.