In the MP Monte Carlo F1 preview, Mercedes unveiled the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed concept, which will become a very limited edition model in the new Mythos series. Essentially, it’s a Mercedes-AMG SL without the windscreen.
Like Ferrari, Mercedes is trying to explore a niche of very limited series supersport models. While, at Ferrari, these exclusive models are grouped in the Ikona series, Mercedes has christened this range Mythos.
The first model in the Mythos series will debut in 2025 and is foreshadowed by the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed concept unveiled on a floating pontoon in the Monte Carlo harbor in a preview at the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monte Carlo in the presence of Mercedes Formula 1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
The model based on the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed will be produced in only 250 units, has no windscreen, and because there is no front pillar, the driver and passenger are protected by a Formula 1-like HALO system that is connected to the car body. This aerodynamically optimized component serves to protect the driver and passenger, who also receive two specially designed helmets. The interior is also distinguished by the custom-designed IWC Schaffhausen clock in the center of the dashboard.
The car’s silhouette is extremely low and many design elements are inspired by the Mercedes-AMG One. The underside reveals many carbon fiber elements, including aerodynamic elements like the front spoiler and side sills. Incidentally, the lower air intake is carried over from the Mercedes-AMG One and has a generous opening. The wheels have carbon fiber inserts, and the rear wheel covers are closed to improve aerodynamics.
At the rear, there are solid rollover guards, a diffuser, and four rectangular tailpipes. Mercedes doesn’t give any details about the tech under the hood, but most likely the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed uses the MSA platform from the AMG SL and the twin-turbo V8 engine.
The Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed also reminds us of another Mercedes model in very limited production. It is the Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss built in only 75 examples.
At the same time, the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed pays homage to motorsport. The rear guards are reminiscent of the Mercedes 300 SLR in which Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson won the 1955 Mille Miglia race in Italy – with a record average speed of 157 km/h on public roads. The eye-catching paintwork in a color gradient from Le Mans red to graphite grey with a black AMG pattern brings to mind the color scheme of the winning Mercedes model in the 1924 Targa Florio race in Sicily, which bore the number 10. The number 10 is found on the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed concept and pays homage to that victory 100 years ago.
