The 1988 Mercedes 560 SEC
Mercedes introduced the W126 sedan in 1979 as part of its second generation of S-Class vehicles. The 2-door coupe became available in 1981 under the C126 internal designation. While both models remained in production for an impressive 12 years, significantly fewer of the C126 coupes were manufactured.
The 1988 560 SEC is even rarer than the C126, with only 29,000 or so of this model being imported to the United States from Germany. The original price tag was steep, even by today’s standards. At a time when a typical Mercedes coupe cost around $15,000, the C560 was selling for $100,000.
Furthermore, German tuner AMG was not yet the household name it is today. While still a respected customizer, it remained a largely independent operation until the 1990s, when AMG-enhanced vehicles first appeared on showroom floors.
A New Standard in Luxury
When it first came out, the 560SEC embodied a collective shift toward a new future of automotive design. The sleek body, unparalleled comfort, and advanced technological systems came to symbolize the future of luxury vehicles.
Performance, styling, and quality were all revamped to make the 560SEC the most desirable “super coupe” of the 1980s. Mercedes pioneered such technology as power seating and headrests, as well as the sleek wooden paneling that is now synonymous with the brand.
As the flagship coupe of the Mercedes-Benz range at the time, the SEC was powered by a 5.5 liter M117 V8, rated at 238 horsepower. With these upgrades, the engine gave the car an impressive 290-lbs of torque, which was staggering compared to vehicles of the era. This car reaches 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds, which was also unheard of at the time.
Various other details were added to make driving as comfortable and convenient as possible. Mirrors could be adjusted from within the vehicle using a dial. A seat belt “butler” was added, which presented the seatbelt to the driver upon ignition. The dashboard panel was large, modern-looking, and easy to read.
The ‘80s 560 SEC at Mercedes of Littleton Now
When it was first released, an AMG Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC Widebody drew attention wherever it went. In 2022, this vintage Car of the Future continues to turn heads. When we acquired a 1988 widebody model with AMG trim in 2016, the car was aptly named, “The Best of the 80’s,” and it remains a favorite among collectors and aficionados.
Even at a contemporary show with the latest models, the AMG Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC Widebody stands out. Rather than feeling anachronous or dated, the car holds its own as a complete classic. The vehicle that defined an era has obvious influences more than three decades later.
Everyone on our team, from the shop foreman to the service manager to our GM, has lovingly dedicated time and energy to restoring this amazing car. The custom-made grille, the AMG wide body kit, and original wheels are just a few details that have eased this vintage beauty effortlessly into the modern world. (There is a great story behind the AMG wheels, just ask the team.)
The 1988 560 SEC at Mercedes Benz of Littleton
This is the House Car for the Mercedes Benz of Littleton dealership. The 1988 560 SEC has been modified with an AMG wide body kit, as well as AMG custom wheels, which are in the original style. The elegant white color paired with the updated trim gives the car a classic-yet-edgy look that you won’t find anywhere else these days.
This specific 560SEC has been further modified with a custom built grille, beautifully framing the famous Mercedes-Benz star. The wide body kit accentuates the car’s clean lines and updates the overall look and feel, transcending 80s era styling and making the car feel timeless.
This car is 34 years old but is still fantastic to drive. It handles extremely well, it drives fast and climbs hills with ease. It is very comfortable, driving like a cloud with plush leather seats and a big steering wheel that has a nice, soft grip. The car feels sturdy, almost heavy, but it drives like a lighter sports car. This vehicle turns heads everywhere you go.
The 1988 Mercedes 560 SEC stands the test of time. It remains one of Mercedes’ finest vehicles and was an important leader in the future of luxury cars.
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