For discerning collectors and enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of 1980s automotive performance and luxury, an exceptional opportunity has emerged: a meticulously crafted 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC AMG for sale. This remarkable vehicle represents a rare breed, transformed by AMG at their Affalterbach headquarters with a widebody conversion, enhanced engine, and bespoke interior and suspension upgrades in October 1989. Originally delivered to Japan, this automotive gem journeyed through the UK and Austria before arriving in the US, and is now proudly offered as part of DriverSource’s esteemed 2024 Legends Collection.
AMG Heritage and Widebody Conversion
AMG’s legacy began in the late 1960s as a constructor of high-performance racing engines, evolving into a renowned modifier of Mercedes-Benz vehicles throughout the 70s and 80s. Before its formal integration with Mercedes-Benz, AMG independently offered exclusive upgrade packages. This 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC for sale underwent a comprehensive widebody transformation at AMG’s Affalterbach facility. In October 1989, skilled artisans fitted widebody fender flares, redesigned bumper fascias, and unique rocker panel covers, creating an aggressive and unmistakable stance. It’s believed that fewer than 50 widebody coupes were ever produced by AMG, making this example exceptionally rare and highly sought after.
Exterior Elegance and Features
Cloaked in the sophisticated Blue-Black Metallic (199U) paint, which was reportedly refreshed under prior ownership, this Mercedes Benz 560 Sec Amg For Sale exudes timeless elegance and sporting aggression. The widebody conversion is further accentuated by a body-colored decklid spoiler and AMG badging, signaling its performance pedigree. Practical yet luxurious features include a power-operated sunroof, headlight wipers for enhanced visibility, and integrated fog lights. The car’s imposing presence is grounded by staggered-width 17” AMG Aero III multi-piece wheels, manufactured by OZ Racing. These wheels feature color-keyed centers and polished lips, wrapped in modern Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 tires (235/45 front, 275/40 rear) with 2022 date codes, ensuring optimal grip and handling.
Luxurious and Performance-Oriented Interior
The cabin of this Mercedes Benz 560 SEC AMG for sale is a sanctuary of Anthracite leather and burl wood trim, blending opulence with sporting intent. Heated and power-adjustable Recaro front seats, complete with two-position memory, offer exceptional comfort and support, upholstered in Anthracite leather with distinctive perforated inserts. The same premium leather extends to the individual rear seats, creating a cohesive and luxurious environment for all occupants. Burl wood accents enrich the shift knob, center console, dashboard, and door panels, adding a touch of classic elegance. Modern conveniences are seamlessly integrated, including a Becker Grand Prix 2000 radio, automatic climate control, and power windows and mirrors. A leather-wrapped MOMO M38 AMG steering wheel further enhances the sporty feel.
Behind the MOMO steering wheel, white-dial instrumentation presents a clear and classic display, featuring a 300-km/h speedometer, a combination gauge, and a 7k-rpm tachometer with an integrated clock. The six-digit odometer indicates 90k kilometers (~56k miles), reflecting the car’s careful use.
Engine and Performance – The 6.0L AMG V8
At the heart of this exceptional Mercedes Benz 560 SEC AMG for sale lies a potent 6.0-liter M117 V8 engine, significantly enhanced by AMG. The engine boasts DOHC AMG cylinder heads and a revised AMG exhaust system, elevating performance to exhilarating levels. When new, this modified powerplant was rated at 385 horsepower, delivering impressive acceleration and a commanding driving experience. Notably, the valve cover stamping reveals the digits “25”, indicating that the engine assembly was personally overseen by Hartmut Feyhl, a pivotal figure at AMG before he founded RENNtech in 1989, further cementing this vehicle’s unique pedigree.
Drivetrain and Underbody
Power is efficiently channeled to the rear wheels through a robust four-speed automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential, ensuring optimal traction and control. The car rides on Bilstein-AMG dampers, providing a refined yet sporty ride quality. Stopping power is assured by four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with two-piston front calipers. Demonstrating meticulous care, the underbody of this Mercedes Benz 560 SEC AMG for sale has been recently dry ice-blasted under current ownership, presenting in remarkably clean condition.
Provenance and Documentation
This exceptional 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC AMG for sale is accompanied by comprehensive documentation, affirming its authenticity and history. An AMG Classic certificate verifies the factory modifications completed on October 4, 1989, listing original identification numbers. Service records further detail its maintenance history, while a Carfax report confirms a clean history since its US entry in October 2023. The sale includes a DriverSource 2024 Legends Collection commemorative CD and binder containing records and photographs, a tool roll, a diecast model, and two key fobs, adding to the collector appeal of this remarkable vehicle.
In conclusion, this 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC AMG widebody represents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive history. With its documented AMG enhancements, exceptional condition, and rich provenance, this Mercedes Benz 560 SEC AMG for sale is poised to become a prized addition to any discerning collection.