Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed special edition does away with windshield

Prototypes of the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed are in their final stage of testing, as Mercedes joins Ferrari and other luxury brands in offering limited-production cars.

The open-top, two-seat PureSpeed is the first model in the Mythos series of special edition cars.

It is based on the AMG SL but is distinguished by a racing-inspired cockpit design that uses a HALO-style reinforcement rather than a roll bar. There is no windshield; Mercedes will supply helmets when the car is delivered. Mercedes released camouflage photos of the car on Aug. 28.

The PureSpeed was shown in concept form in May at the Monaco Grand Prix. Mercedes says the design is inspired by past racing models, notably flying buttresses that recall the 300 SLR that won the Mille Miglia in 1955 with Stirling Moss and Dennis Jenkinson.

Mercedes-Benz Group CEO Ola Kallenius announced the Mythos series in May 2022 as part of a shift toward higher-margin vehicles across the group. They are aimed at “the most dedicated enthusiasts and collectors,” Mercedes said.

The price and specifications for the PureSpeed have not been announced, but it is set to appear next year. It was engineered by Pininfarina, who will also produce the car.

Other luxury brands have been producing limited-edition models in recent years. Ferrari’s Icona limited releases have included the $2.2 million, retro-inspired Daytona SP3, which sold out immediately when it was announced in 2021. In August, the supercar maker said sales of such models had helped increase profits significantly.

Aston Martin in July announced it had sold out a 38-unit production run for the Valiant, a V-12 coupe. Lamborghini and Bentley have also produced special series cars. 

Land Rover said this year that it would sharply increase sales of special-edition models costing up to 1.5 million pounds ($1.91 million).