Mercedes-AMG Mythos PureSpeed Combines F1 Design With Classic Racing Spirit

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the Mythos PureSpeed, the first model in its lineup. It is an SL-based roadster with F1-inspired design elements, like a halo-style roll cage. The vehicle will go into restricted production next year, with a total of 250 vehicles going to a select group of Mercedes' most ardent collectors.

The design team at Mythos transformed the four-seat 2024 SL into a two-seat speedster by removing the windshield and A-pillars and substituting them with a small aero screen and a structural spine that divides the front vision.

The purchase also includes a set of helmets optimized for the automobile's aerodynamics. Another noticeable change to the 2017 Mercedes PureSpeed is its shark-like front fascia, which ditches the classic AMG grille in favor of a massive three-pointed star. Both the Mercedes-CLR Stirling Moss and the C-111 concept from the 1970s used a similar design philosophy.

In keeping with the Moss connection, the red paint is a nod to the Mercedes that won the 1924 Targa Florio in Sicily, and the flying buttresses behind the seat are allegedly based on those on the 300 SLR that the renowned British racer drove to victory at the 1955 Mille Miglia. 

The PureSpeed proudly displays the same number on its front fenders as the winning Mercedes in that race. With the introduction of the Mythos series, Mercedes has responded to the success of competing luxury manufacturers such as Aston Martin and Ferrari in the niche market for custom-built automobiles.

Those manufacturers usually use the original engines from the source vehicles, and Mercedes has likely followed suit. The SL63 S E Performance's hybrid-assisted V8 powerplant produces 805 horsepower; however, this one is probably based on the SL63's 577 horsepower.

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