Basic information and history

The Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC belongs to the C126 coupé series, which was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1981 as the two-door sister model to the S-class W126. The body was designed under the direction of Bruno Sacco and is characterised by the pillarless hardtop line without a B-pillar, which gives a completely open side profile when the windows are lowered. Another detail that became something of a signature for the model is the motorised seatbelt feeders, which bring the seatbelt forward to the driver and passenger once the door is closed.

Under the bonnet sits the all-aluminium V8 M117 of five litres, in this version with mechanical Bosch K-Jetronic injection and an output of around 231 horsepower. Power is transmitted via a four-speed automatic gearbox to the rear wheels. The 1983 model year belongs to the first generation before the 1985 facelift, which among other things means the early bumpers and side mouldings as well as the original injection system.

This example was imported from Germany in 1988. The odometer reading stands at 232,278 kilometres and the seller states that it can be guaranteed. The car is described as being in untouched original condition, apart from the aftermarket wheels described below. There is no loan on the vehicle and no deductible VAT.

Equipment and options

• Lorinser wheels 17 inch
• Climate control
• Sound and media system
• Four-speed automatic gearbox

The car is otherwise stated to be in original specification. The only known deviation from original is the fitted 17-inch Lorinser wheels, a classic period-correct upgrade for the model.

Condition

The paintwork is described by the seller as being in excellent condition and the body is stated to be in good condition. The seller notes a minor rust damage at the right rear wheel arch edge, which prospective buyers should take into account in their assessment. The glass is, according to the seller, in excellent condition.

The interior is stated to be in excellent condition, as is the instrument panel. The headliner is described as being in good condition, but is, according to the seller, somewhat clamped at the rear edge. All seatbelts function, the trip odometer works and the sound and media system is operational. All electronics are stated to function and the instrument panel is free of warning lights.

The Lorinser wheels are described as being in very fine condition, while the tyres are old and should be replaced before regular driving.

The engine is stated to be in good condition and starts and runs well according to the seller. The engine may feel slightly uneven at idle, especially when cold. This is most likely due to old fuel in the tank. However, it runs cleanly on all cylinders. The gearbox is described as being in good condition and shifts flawlessly, and the brakes are likewise stated to be in good condition. The climate control system is currently not working; according to the seller there is gas in the system but it needs to be topped up.

The car is drivable as it stands and has passed inspection, most recently carried out on 8 October 2026.

Service history

There are no receipts or other documentation substantiating the service history. The seller states that the car would need a service, which the new owner should take into account.

Summary

A Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC of model year 1983, from the first series of the C126 before the facelift. The car is described as being in a very fine and untouched original condition, with paintwork, glass, interior and instrument panel in excellent condition according to the seller, and with period-correct 17-inch Lorinser wheels as the only deviation. The odometer reading of 232,278 kilometres is stated to be guaranteeable and the car has recently passed inspection. Among the notes are a minor rust damage at the right rear wheel arch edge, a headliner that is clamped at the rear edge, old tyres, a climate control system that needs refilling, and a service need without documented history. Altogether an example of a classic Sacco coupé with V8, giving the new owner the opportunity to carry out a thorough review and then enjoy the car.