By 1989, AMG, born from a 205-employee operation in Affalterbach, Germany, had already carved a name for itself creating some of the most formidable and meticulously engineered vehicles in the automotive world. This era marked a significant period for the company, nearly four years into a celebrated motorsport partnership with Mercedes-Benz. Simultaneously, AMG was expanding its reach globally, establishing a network of franchisees to cater to an eager clientele seeking high-performance road cars.
Indeed, through corporate alliances with AMG and Sauber, Mercedes-Benz strategically orchestrated its return to the pinnacle of motorsport in 1984, culminating in an official announcement in 1989. This heralded the revival of its legendary Sportabteilung—”sports department”—and the iconic “Silver Arrow” racecars, signaling a powerful resurgence in racing.
However, the now-iconic partnership between Mercedes-Benz and AMG, often taken for granted by today’s automotive and motorsport aficionados, might never have come to fruition were it not for the groundbreaking, high-performance engineering advancements pioneered for Mercedes-Benz engines by AMG co-founder, Erhard Melcher. Melcher’s seminal work in 1984—a revolutionary dual-overhead-camshaft cylinder-head conversion kit for Mercedes-Benz’s M117 V-8 engine—not only cemented his personal legacy but also firmly established AMG’s products as superior, unique, and highly coveted, distinguishing them from a saturated market of aftermarket tuning houses. This innovation was pivotal in setting AMG apart and paving the way for future collaborations.
This 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC AMG 6.0 “Wide-Body” stands as a prime example of AMG’s most audacious and culturally defining creations from this era. The extraordinary costs associated with AMG’s 6.0-liter engine upgrade, the sophisticated DOHC conversion, and the distinctive wide-body aerodynamic kit, when added to the price of a brand-new, top-tier S-Class coupe, unequivocally positioned this vehicle as one of the most extravagantly priced and marvelously engineered road cars of the “Excessive Eighties.” It represented the zenith of automotive luxury and performance during a decade known for its opulence.
Presented in a striking Blue-Black Metallic (199U) exterior paired with Anthracite leather interiors, this particular 560 SEC was originally commissioned as a German-market vehicle with gray leather upholstery and completed in September 1989. This color combination enhances its imposing stance and luxurious appeal, making it a highly desirable example for collectors.
During this period, Japan emerged as the most enthusiastic market for AMG-modified cars. These vehicles reached Japanese customers through two primary channels. Firstly, as demonstrated by this car, it involved acquiring new or barely used German-market vehicles which were then meticulously modified by AMG in Affalterbach before being exported to Japan. Secondly, Japanese-market cars were converted using crate engines and components supplied by AMG Germany, facilitated through the Yanase dealer network’s AMG Japan branches. This dual approach ensured that Japanese enthusiasts had access to the exclusive AMG enhancements.
Based on the sequence number of its AMG engine unit (447), it is estimated that AMG transformed this specific lot to its current specifications in late 1989 or early 1990, immediately before its export to Japan. It remained in Japan until April 2016, last registered in Kobe (Osaka) as “302 47-76” with approximately 87,850 kilometers (54,587 miles) recorded at the time of its export to the United Kingdom. This history in the Japanese market adds to its unique story and desirability.
After a brief period in the United Kingdom, an Austrian collector acquired it, registering it in Bregenz as “B 8792.” In 2020, the previous owner purchased it and exported it from Austria with a mere 88,240 kilometers (54,829 miles) indicated. This documented ownership history across continents further enriches its provenance.
Currently showing 89,044 km (55,329 miles) at the time of cataloging, the car’s Anthracite leather interior remains remarkably well-preserved and attractive. Key interior features include a set of multi-adjustable Recaro Ideal seats, and elegant burl wood trim adorning the doors, dashboard, and center console. A four-spoke, leather-wrapped, AMG-branded Momo M38 steering wheel complements an instrument cluster featuring AMG’s signature 300-kph speedometer, also framed in burl wood. These interior details underscore the bespoke luxury and performance focus of AMG.
The exterior and mechanical components are equally authentic, with AMG body numbers present on the front fenders, bumpers, and side skirts. The DOHC valve cover stampings clearly identify the engine’s 6.0-liter displacement, sequence number, and the corresponding employee ID code, all verifying the engine’s pedigree. Further stampings on the heads, exhaust manifolds, and throttle body provide additional confirmation of this coupe’s extensive AMG modifications. Even the color-matched OZ Aero III wheels, dated to 1989, house upgraded twin-piston front brakes and a complete “AMG by Bilstein” suspension system. These mechanical enhancements are crucial for delivering the performance expected from an AMG vehicle.
In preparation for its sale, this cherished AMG has undergone routine mechanical servicing and has been fitted with a new set of high-performance Continental ExtremeContact 02 tires. This recent maintenance ensures it is ready for its next discerning owner.
Undeniably one of the most iconic and recognizable German automobiles of its era, this AMG-enhanced super-coupe delivers an unparalleled blend of luxury, performance, and renowned German reliability, all encased in a visually arresting design. Alongside RUF’s Porsche 930-based CTR Yellowbird, the wide-body 1989 Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe presented here stands as a quintessential representation of Germany’s vibrant Eighties tuning culture. More expensive than a Ferrari Testarossa, faster than a Lamborghini Countach, and offering generous space for four occupants, it is the definitive Youngtimer collector car, embodying the spirit of a golden era in automotive history.
