The clue is in the name: the Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed. Not only does this groundbreaking design channel legendary racing cars, it offers the ordinary driver a similar experience to that of driving a Formula 1 car.

Unveiled at the recent F1 Monaco Grand Prix and the first model in the exclusive, limited-edition Mercedes-Benz Mythos series, this visually arresting performance car showcases a radical design concept – a completely open, two-seater performance car without a roof or windscreen. 

“The Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed offers a glimpse of what is probably the most direct way to experience performance and driving pleasure,” says Michael Schiebe, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and head of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class & Mercedes-Maybach divisions, at the unveiling of the car on a floating pontoon in the principality’s harbour. 

“Radically open, neither a roof nor the windscreen separate the two passengers from the elements. You can experience light, air and passion unfiltered with all your senses.” 

Strictly limited to 250 units globally, and aimed at the most dedicated Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and collectors, the Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed combines the unique tradition of Mercedes-Benz with pure and uncompromising race-car design, innovative materials, dynamic performance and modern technology. 

Inspired by legendary race cars, the Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed embodies the ‘pinnacle of exclusivity’ from Mercedes-Benz in the top segment and design-wise, is inspired by the Mercedes-AMG ONE hypercar – with technical, sharply cut visible carbon fibre parts in the lower section contrasting with the sensual, rounded shapes of the upper part of the vehicle.

Accentuating the sporty, low, race-ready silhouette is the unique carbon fibre cladding on the front and rear wheel covers, the long bonnet and the very low front end with a pronounced ‘shark nose’. The front design is similar to the Mercedes-AMG ONE with a wide lower-air intake with AMG lettering and a dark, chrome-plated Mercedes star on the soft nose. The aerodynamically optimised, sportive bonnet has an additional air outlet, while small, transparent deflectors at the front and sides direct the wind over the cockpit.

A highlight of the design is the HALO system replacing the conventional A-pillar on the vehicle – an element seen on every F1 vehicle since 2018 designed to protect the driver's head in the event of an accident. As in F1, the safety system in the Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed consists of a bracket that is connected to the body of the vehicle, aerodynamically optimised to protect the occupants. 

Included are two helmets specially designed and manufactured for the Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed. The interior adds further highlights, with its unique colour and equipment concept as well as a custom clock designed by IWC Schaffhausen on the dashboard.

Its motorsport parentage is seen in other important design details – such as the two flying buttresses behind the seats, reminiscent of a legendary racing car such as the 300 SLR in which Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson won the 1955 Mille Miglia in Italy.

The eye-catching paintwork – in a colour gradient from Le Mans red to graphite grey with a black AMG pattern – alludes to the colour scheme of the victorious Mercedes-Benz car at the 1924 Targa Florio race in Sicily. The number 10 can also be found on the front wings of the Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed and refers to that Targa Florio victory 100 years ago.

With the small series model to debut next year, the Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed promises an F1 feeling for two people – exciting, energising and breathtaking. 

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