Currently reading: Mercedes SL spawns radical F1-inspired Purespeed speedster

Hardcore debut model from Merc's new Mythos luxury brand gets an F1 halo and motorsport-inspired livery

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the Purespeed concept, a first look at the introductory entry in its upcoming line of limited-volume Mythos models.

A prelude to the first car in the range, it is a two-seat speedster based on the SL roadster and swaps a conventional windscreen for an F1-inspired halo.

Visually, it is inspired by the Mercedes-AMG One, with prominent grille areas at the front end. 

It also receives an eye-catching livery that fades from red to grey, in a reference to the Mercedes that won the 1924 Targa Florio. The number 10, which features along the Purespeed's flanks, also references the century-old racer.

As Autocar previously reported, it is based on the SL 63 4Matic+, which has a 577bhp twin-turbocharged V8 and four-wheel drive.

Mercedes announced that it will build just 250 examples of the production Purespeed and make it "available to the most dedicated Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and collectors".

Deliveries will begin next year, Autocar understands.

Michael Schiebe, head of the firm's G-Class and Maybach divisions, said: "The Concept Mercedes-AMG Purespeed offers a glimpse of what is probably the most direct way to experience performance and driving pleasure.

"Radically open, neither a roof nor the windscreen separate the two passengers from the elements. You can experience light, air and passion unfiltered with all your senses.

"As the concept of our first Mythos vehicle, it embodies the highest level of exclusivity. Design elements such as the halo also create a Formula 1 feeling."

Advertisement

Read our review

Car review

Mercedes’ ‘old-timer’ roadster is off in a sportier direction, but is it the right one?

Charlie Martin

Charlie Martin Autocar
Title: Editorial assistant, Autocar

As part of Autocar’s news desk, Charlie plays a key role in the title’s coverage of new car launches and industry events. He’s also a regular contributor to its social media channels, providing videos for Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and Twitter.

Charlie joined Autocar in July 2022 after a nine-month stint as an apprentice with sister publication What Car?, during which he acquired his gold-standard NCTJ diploma with the Press Association.

Charlie is the proud owner of a Fiat Panda 100HP, which he swears to be the best car in the world. Until it breaks.

Join the debate

Comments
2
Add a comment…
tuga 22 May 2024
Who wouldn't want a grossly overpriced SL that's also uglier and less practical?
Peter Cavellini 22 May 2024

Will 250 be enough?, if they do say three color ways and options on the interior, they would sell double .