Mercedes-AMG has revealed the first of its new high-end Mythos models at the final F1 race of the 2024 season in Abu Dhabi. Called the AMG PureSpeed, the model is based on the SL 63 but comes with a range of bespoke elements, including a unique F1-inspired HALO that replaces the windscreen. No prices have been revealed, but the model will be limited to 250 units globally. 

Following a recent trend of windscreen-free specials like the Ferrari SP2 Monza and Aston Martin V12 Speedster, AMG’s version differs thanks to the use of a central spine that combines with two traditional roll-hoops to act as a rollover-protection structure. Made from a tubular steel structure mounted in the car’s scuttle, this doesn’t just improve the car’s safety credentials, but also draws direct inspiration from AMG’s F1 car. 

Other external changes include a unique front-end design that swaps the traditional Panamericana grille for a lower front intake paired with a high-mounted black chrome three-pointed star. This sits above a carbon splitter with an aggressive pair of moulded end-plates. 

More end-plates can also be found on the unique side skirt and rear bumper designs. The 21-inch forged wheels are also new, and feature carbon-fibre aero deflectors with a more open design on the front axle so as not to restrict cooling of the standard-fit carbon ceramic brakes. The red-to-black livery is optional – other colours available if customers so choose. 

Inside, there’s a bespoke two-tone colour scheme of white and black Nappa leather, plus the inclusion of AMG’s bucket seats and a custom IWC watchface mounted on top of the dashboard. 

The PureSpeed shares much of its mechanical elements with the SL 63 Roadster. This means that it runs a 577bhp variant of AMG’s 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, powering all four wheels via a nine-speed wet-clutch automatic transmission. It also shares the semi-active anti-roll suspension system, plus rear-axle steering. AMG claims a 0-62mph time of 3.6 seconds and a 195mph top speed.