Mercedes-AMG has officially revealed the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, a limited-run performance coupe based on the standard Mercedes-AMG CLE 53. Powered by an extensively enhanced 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, the new model produces 646hp and 850Nm of torque, sending power exclusively to the rear wheels via a nine-speed AMG Speedshift transmission. Serving as the second vehicle in Mercedes-Benz’s ultra-exclusive Mythos series following the AMG PureSpeed, production is strictly limited to 30 units worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a flat-plane crankshaft, producing 646hp and 850Nm of torque.
- Utilizes a rear-wheel-drive layout, dropping the all-wheel-drive system of the CLE 53 donor car.
- Accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 310kph.
- Sheds approximately 170kg through extensive use of carbon-fibre body panels and the removal of rear seats.
- Production is capped at 30 hand-built units in Affalterbach, Germany, with all examples already sold.
The vehicle is built around an upgraded M177 EVO V8 motor featuring a flat-plane crankshaft that aids rapid revving and throttle response. Engineers in Affalterbach completely re-engineered the donor platform, removing the all-wheel-drive system and incorporating an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential. The car achieves a 0 to 100kph sprint in 3.9 seconds, hits 0 to 200kph in 11.4 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 310kph.
Weight reduction plays a core role in the engineering of the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung. Mercedes-AMG removed roughly 170kg, bringing the total curb weight down to 1,895kg. Carbon-fibre components shape the front fenders, bonnet, roof, sills, and boot lid, while polycarbonate rear glass further trims excess mass. Inside, the cabin loses its rear seats, sound system, and extra acoustic insulation to prioritize track performance, fitting lightweight racing bucket seats and a protective roll bar instead.
Chassis upgrades include a steel coilover suspension setup developed alongside KW automotive, featuring four-way adjustable dampers. Stopping power comes from a carbon-ceramic braking system utilizing 420mm front discs with six-piston calipers and 360mm rear discs with single-piston calipers. Aerodynamic enhancements, including a manually adjustable front diffuser and a prominent rear wing, generate significant high-speed downforce. Mercedes-AMG confirmed that all 30 allocated units found buyers prior to the public unveiling.
FAQ
Q1. What engine powers the Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung?
A1. It uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a flat-plane crankshaft that generates 646hp and 850Nm of torque.
Q2. How many units of the CLE 646 will be manufactured?
A2. Production is strictly limited to 30 units globally, and all units were sold out before the official premiere.
Q3. What is the top speed and acceleration of the CLE 646?
A3. The car accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 3.9 seconds and achieves a top speed of 310kph.
Q4. How much weight did Mercedes-AMG shave off the CLE 646 compared to the base car?
A4. Engineers reduced the weight by approximately 170kg through extensive carbon-fibre construction and interior stripping.
