When the first S-Class coupe entered production in late 1981, its top-of-the-line 500 SEC version quickly became one of Mercedes-Benz’s most sought-after new models. The car’s pillarless silhouette was unique in the brand’s lineup, and its automatic seatbelt extenders, which would present the front-seat passengers with their belts upon seating, were a first. The lesser 380 SEC with the same body was available in the United States, but customers expressed disappointment with its lack of power. Strict emissions regulations prevented the 500 SEC’s availability until 1984, which in turn fueled a grey market boom of privately imported examples like this one entering the country.

Ordered by tobacco industry tycoon Charles Ho, this 500 SEC was specified with AMG’s enlarged 5.4-liter version of the standard 5.0-liter V-8 to give it a 36 percent increase in horsepower; a widening of its fenders; Recaro bucket seats; a body kit; “Penta” wheels; and extended burl-wood trim. The car was featured on the cover of AutoWeek in 1984 and purchased in 2023 by Richard Buxbaum, the original president of AMG North America, Inc.