Mercedes-AMG Reveals Ultra-Limited CLE 646 Track Special With 475kW V8

Mercedes-AMG has introduced the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung as an ultra-limited track special developed from a heavily re-engineered CLE 53 platform. Production of the vehicle is strictly capped at 30 hand-built examples at the Affalterbach facility, with every unit entirely spoken for prior to the official world premiere. The release marks the second model in Mercedes-Benz's Mythos Series, focusing on aggressive weight reduction and circuit-tuned mechanical upgrades.

The vehicle discards the standard all-wheel-drive configuration in favour of a purely rear-driven layout powered by a 4.0-litre M177 Evo twin-turbo V8 engine featuring a flat-plane crankshaft. The powertrain generates 475kW of power and 850Nm of torque available between 2500 and 4500rpm, paired with a 9-speed AMG Speedshift TCT transmission and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential managing torque distribution across the rear axle.

The removal of the donor car's 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system shifts the dynamic focus entirely to the rear axle, allowing the track special to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds. Continuing past standing acceleration marks, the vehicle reaches 200km/h in 11.4 seconds before achieving an electronically limited top speed of 310km/h. Transmission calibration and engine management systems are specifically mapped to harness the flat-plane V8's power delivery profile during high-load circuit driving.

Engineers stripped approximately 170kg from the donor architecture to achieve a DIN kerb weight of 1895kg, removing rear seats and acoustic insulation in favour of racing bucket seats and an integrated roll-over bar. The exterior bodywork expands by 60mm at both ends, utilising extensive carbon-fibre construction alongside polycarbonate rear side glass and a polycarbonate rear window. Stopping power and handling are supported by carbon-ceramic brakes and a 4-way adjustable steel coil-over suspension developed in partnership with KW.

The aerodynamic setup features a front diffuser that can be manually toggled between Street and Race positions, complemented by an adjustable rear wing. Mercedes-AMG states that the complete aero package generates well over 250kg of downforce at top speed. Local market details regarding pricing, allocation, and delivery schedules for regions such as New Zealand remain unannounced by manufacturer representatives.

All 30 units of the hand-built production run were claimed before the public unveiling, leaving prospective buyers in secondary markets without local ordering pathways. Regional distributor representatives confirmed that New Zealand pricing, specific country allocations, and official delivery timing have not yet been established. Further announcements regarding regional logistics are pending manufacturer schedules.