Mercedes-AMG has revealed the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, a limited-run performance coupe powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. The engine produces 646 HP and 850 NM, while power goes exclusively to the rear wheels.
Based on the AMG CLE 53, the CLE 646 receives extensive upgrades to its powertrain, suspension, body and cabin. Moreover, Mercedes-AMG will build only 30 examples worldwide, and all units have already sold.
Powertrain & Performance
The CLE 646 uses Mercedes-AMG’s M177 Evo 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft. It produces 646 HP and 850 NM between 2,500rpm and 4,500rpm. Unlike the all-wheel-drive CLE 53, the CLE 646 sends power to the rear wheels.
Furthermore, a 9-speed AMG Speedshift transmission works with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The coupe reaches 100 KM/H in 3.9 seconds and 200 KM/H in 11.4 seconds, while its top speed stands at 310 KM/H.
Lightweight Exterior Design
Mercedes-AMG has removed around 170kg from the donor car, bringing the CLE 646’s weight down to 1,895kg. Carbon-fibre body panels, polycarbonate rear glass and a lighter 12-volt battery contribute to the weight reduction.
The body is 60mm wider than the CLE 53. Additionally, carbon fibre features across the fenders, bonnet, roof, sills, rear apron and boot lid. A large adjustable rear wing and 20-INCH forged alloy wheels complete the exterior changes.
Suspension, Brakes & Aerodynamics
The CLE 646 uses steel coilover suspension developed with KW, with four-way adjustable dampers. Meanwhile, carbon-ceramic brakes provide 420MM discs at the front and 360MM discs at the rear. Six-piston front calipers and single-piston rear calipers handle braking duties.
Its aerodynamic package includes an adjustable front diffuser and rear wing. As a result, Mercedes-AMG claims the car can generate more than 250kg of downforce at top speed.
Interior & Weight Reduction
Mercedes-AMG has removed the rear seats and acoustic insulation to reduce weight. In their place, the CLE 646 gets lightweight bucket seats, carbon-fibre door panels and a roll bar.
Additionally, the manufacturer has simplified or removed the sound system and some driver-assistance features. An optional Performance Package adds six-point racing harnesses for buyers seeking a more track-focused setup.
Limited Production & Availability
Mercedes-AMG will produce only 30 examples of the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung worldwide. Each car receives hand-built assembly in Affalterbach using a CLE 53 as its base.
However, customers cannot order one now because the entire 30-unit production run sold out before the car’s world premiere. Mercedes-AMG has not announced pricing.
Prices In India
Mercedes-AMG has not announced an India launch for the CLE 646. Therefore, there is currently no official India price or availability information for the limited-run coupe.
| Model | Global Production | India Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung | 30 units | Not announced |
Verdict
The Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 transforms the CLE 53 into a significantly more focused performance coupe. With a 646 HP V8, rear-wheel drive, extensive carbon-fibre use and track-oriented suspension, it offers a very different character from the standard CLE range.
Moreover, its 30-unit production run makes the CLE 646 an exclusive Mythos-series model. With every example already sold, its appeal will likely come from its rarity as much as its performance.
