Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the new CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, an extremely limited high-performance coupe developed with a clear focus on driving dynamics. Based on the AMG CLE 53, the special model brings a heavily upgraded V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, extensive weight reduction, and a redesigned chassis. It is also the second model from Mercedes-AMG’s exclusive Mythos series.
646hp V8 Engine With 850Nm
The biggest highlight of the CLE 646 is its AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. The extensively enhanced M177 EVO unit produces 646hp and 850Nm of peak torque, with maximum torque available between 2,500rpm and 4,500rpm. The engine uses a flat-plane crankshaft designed to reduce rotating mass and improve throttle response.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through an AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G nine-speed transmission. Unlike the standard AMG CLE 53, the CLE 646 does away with all-wheel drive and uses a rear-wheel-drive layout. An electronically controlled limited-slip differential helps manage the substantial power and can also support controlled oversteer when conditions allow.
0- 100 km/h in 3.9 Seconds
Performance figures underline the car’s serious intentions. The Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, while 0- 200 km/h takes 11.4 seconds. Its top speed is rated at 310 km/h, putting it firmly in supercar territory.
Mercedes-AMG has also worked extensively on the car’s cooling system to ensure consistent performance under demanding conditions. The V8 uses three separate cooling circuits for the engine, charge air, and transmission-related components.
Lightweight Construction and Wider Body
Weight reduction has been another major part of the CLE 646’s development. Compared with the donor car, around 170kg has been removed through extensive use of lightweight materials and redesigned components. The car gets a wider body, carbon-fibre elements and purpose-developed aerodynamics.
The suspension has also been significantly upgraded. A specially developed four-way adjustable coilover setup allows the damping characteristics to be tuned according to driving conditions and circuit requirements. Large 20-inch wheels are wrapped in 305-section front and 335-section rear tyres.
Just 30 Units Planned
The CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is not intended to be a regular production AMG. Only 30 examples are planned globally, making it a highly exclusive collector-focused model. Reports indicate that all production slots have already been allocated.
With its hand-built construction, 646hp V8, rear-wheel drive and 310 km/h top speed, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 represents a very different direction from the increasingly electrified performance-car market. It is a limited-production AMG designed to prioritise driver involvement and mechanical character above everything else.
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