1987 MERCEDES-BENZ 500 SEC

Background

Launched in 1981 to replace the SLC, the Mercedes SEC is a luxurious coupe based on the S-Class W126. The line was designed by the in-house style centre led by Bruno Sacco. It features very elegant and original cues, such as the horizontally developed grille with the large three-pointed star logo in the centre, retractable windshield wipers, and the absence of the centre pillar. Compared to the sedan from which it is derived, the SEC has a shorter wheelbase of 8.5 centimetres, but space on board remains plenty even for four average-sized adults. Two versions were available at launch, powered by gasoline V8 engines mated to an automatic transmission: the 204-hp 380 SEC and the more powerful 231-hp 500 SEC. In 1985 the standard equipment was expanded with ABS, while in 1986 a slight "refresh" gave the car newly shaped bumpers, new side fascias, 15-inch alloy wheels and electrically adjustable front seats. The 380 SEC was replaced by the 218-hp 420 SEC, while the 500 SEC's power output increases from 231 to 245 hp. At the top of the range was the 560 SEC, whose V8 engine provides 300 hp, allowing the car to reach a top speed of 250 km/h.

The Vehicle

The Mercedes 500 SEC on sale is identified by chassis number WDB1260441A355568. The car was first registered in Italy, in the province of Verona, in 1987. The car belongs to the second series of the model and is therefore equipped with ABS, electric seats and the more powerful 245-hp engine. The odometer shows a mileage of 256,618 kilometres.

On the Outside

The body of the Mercedes was most likely repainted some years ago. Overall, judging from the pictures, a good job has been done: the car has no imperfections, the paint is bright and the colour is uniform on all surfaces. Moving parts, such as hoods and doors, are well aligned. All glazed parts, from the windows to the windshield to the rear window, are intact. The only exception is the passenger-side rear-view mirror (the glass is slightly cracked, but not completely broken). The front and rear headlight glasses are also intact. Minor parking scratches are present on the front and rear bumpers. The window frames and, in general, all chrome parts are in good condition. Also in excellent order are the typical 15-inch fifteen-slot alloy wheels.

On the Inside

The interior of this Mercedes 500 SEC is fully lined in ice-coloured leather. It appears all in all well-preserved, although certain parts show - albeit slightly - some signs of ageing. The wooden parts are practically as good as new and the carpeted floor covering is intact, as are the door panels. Here there are the controls for the electric seats (they work correctly, according to what the current owner told us). Some small tears are on the passenger seat; the top of the rear sofa; the back of the centre armrest; the inside of the sun visors. The headliner presents some stains, especially in the electric sunroof zone, but it has no tears or other defects.

Underneath

The underside of the Mercedes shows no traces of thorough corrosion, only slight signs of surface oxidation. In short, nothing unusual for a car over 30 years old. The car is healthy and looks good under the hood as well: the engine presents its original configuration and, according to what the vendor told us, it runs very well and does not need any significant maintenance. However, it is advisable to carry out a service and a general overhaul of the mechanics, since the car has been used only occasionally in the last two years.

History Highlights

We do not know the complete story of this Mercedes 500 SEC in detail. However, based on the information we collected, we know that the car was sold new in Italy in 1987 and has always remained in that country. The current owner, a car dealer, purchased it about two years ago from a friend who is a classic car collector. Since then, the car has been used sporadically to attend rallies or car shows, travelling less than 1,000 kilometres.

What We Think

Along with its eternal rival Porsche 928, the Mercedes SEC represents the ultimate luxury coupe of the 1980s. Truly loved by yuppies and established professionals, this very elegant German coupe marked an era. Its simple and timeless line catches the eye yesterday as it does today. The version with the 245-hp V8 engine combines the reliability typical of Mercedes with a brilliant performance, with a top speed of about 230 km/h and a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. The example for sale features a very stylish exterior-interior colour scheme and needs only a few minor interventions to get back to the top (such as restoring some parts of the leather upholstery, painting the bumpers, and a general check of the mechanics, since the car has been used only sporadically in the last two years). An opportunity not to be missed, for lovers of the genre.

Price estimate for this Mercedes 500 SEC: €12.000 - €18.000.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located in the province of Arezzo, Italy. To arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below or try our “Frequently Asked Questions”.

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