You probably won’t be able to pronounce its name, but there’s no doubt the Mercedes‑AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung will be on your mind all day after seeing it.
That’s because this highly-limited collector model marks the return of a high-performance V8 coupe to the AMG stable.
Based underneath on the CLE 53, which replaced both the C-Class and E-Class coupes, the CLE 646 is the latest entry to Mercedes’ Mythos Series of limited-run vehicles, following the 2025 PureSpeed.
This is a far more limited item, however, with Spezialanfertigung translating to “custom made”, so only 30 examples are to be offered worldwide.
As for the 646 bit of its name, this rowdy CLE packs a 646PS punch – that translates to 475kW in Australian or 637hp in American – from its 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, along with 850Nm torque.
And the reason it’s such a rowdy thing is because it eschews the 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system of its donor car in favour of a pure rear-wheel drive platform.
You can also factor in AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, which even has a double-declutch function, and an exhaust developed with Akrapovič.
It’s not just built for skids, though. Indeed, the real intention behind the CLE 646 is an uncompromising focus on driving dynamics, tailored for winding roads and closed race circuits.
As a result, the weight reduction measures are immense. Mercedes-AMG has shaved off 170kg compared to the six-cylinder CLE 53.
That’s despite it being a larger car, thanks to its widebody treatment, although it features numerous carbon fibre components and purpose developed aerodynamics.
It also packs a steel sprung coilover suspension system jointly developed with KW automotive, with its four-way adjustable dampers enabling precise tuning to suit one’s driving style, circuit characteristics, individual preferences, and intended use.
Add in enhanced torsional rigidity through its body structure and the AMG Ceramic High-Performance Composite Braking System built for withstanding extreme braking loads, and this is about as hardcore as it gets.
Want one? Too bad, all 30 were sold out before we even saw it.
