In the 1980s and early 1990s, prior to its integration into the Mercedes-Benz corporate umbrella, AMG distinguished itself as a manufacturer focused on crafting vehicles with a singular mission.
These were not merely lightweight cars; they were substantial, robust machines equipped with hand-assembled V-8 engines that delivered a powerful punch. One model even earned the moniker “the Hammer.” The latest iteration of this automotive ethos is a striking restomod coupe that harmoniously blends opulent interiors with raw power.
Currently available on Bring A Trailer—part of Hearst Autos along with Car and Driver—this vehicle is a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 560SEC, which features a wide-body kit and is powered by a formidable 6.2-liter AMG V-8 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Does anyone else hear the nostalgic strains of Crockett’s Theme from Miami Vice? This rugged beauty is more than capable of challenging a white Testarossa on the road.
Serving as the coupe variant of the Mercedes S-Class, the SEC stands as a worthy successor to iconic models like the supercharged 500K from the 1930s. It made its debut in the U.S. with a 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine in 1981 but eventually evolved, influenced by the extravagant excesses of the 1980s, into a more luxurious and powerful vehicle.
During this era, if you were a Wall Street mogul eager to showcase raw power on the pavement, you would have dialed up AMG from your compact cell phone to order a wide-body W126. Featuring a hand-built V-8, such a vehicle was the antithesis of precision road cars like the Porsche 911. The most exclusive versions even boasted a 6.0-liter DOHC engine and a six-speed manual gearbox.
This particular 1990 560SEC underwent extensive modifications by Bespoke Orange County, a specialist in Mercedes-Benz restorations known for crafting carbon-fiber components for vehicles such as the G-Class. If a standard Gelandewagen lacks the visual appeal necessary for Rodeo Drive, this company can transform it into a showstopper.
Bespoke Orange County has a knack for the 560SEC widebody, and it reportedly took three years to complete this impressive build. It showcases carbon-fiber body panels, 17-inch three-piece alloy wheels, upgraded brakes and suspension, a meticulously crafted leather interior with Recaro seating, powerful brakes to manage highway speeds, and a high-quality sound system designed to deliver the best of Jan Hammer’s synthesizer hits.
Alternatively, one might choose to drop the pillarless windows and simply enjoy the thunderous roar of the V-8 through its stainless steel exhaust. Unlike the original V-8, this model features a later M156 engine, the same type found in the 2006–2011 CL63, a direct descendant of this classic vehicle.
In a time when the AMG badge can be found on vehicles powered by four-cylinder hybrids or EVs that resemble bars of soap, this classic throwback encapsulates both nostalgia and performance. This Mercedes coupe serves as a reminder of the powerful AMGs from the past.