1990 Mercedes-Benz 500SEC Coupe

Description

With the W126 S-Class Mercedes-Benz set out to build the best luxury car in the world and - for the duration of the 1980s - succeeded admirably in achieving this goal. The W126 model employed a new range of light alloy V8 engines and a more aerodynamic shape (with a class leading 0.36cd) over the previous S-class, significantly improving fuel consumption. A number of innovative safety systems, including ABS and SRS airbags, were seen on a production car for the first time. Right from the outset, a coupe version of the W126 was envisaged and the elegant SEC featured distinctive pillarless styling with more sharply raked front and rear windscreens, unique front-end styling and a shorter wheelbase. Initially available in two versions, the 380SEC and 500SEC, each powered by a single-overhead cam V8 engine with Bosch electronic fuel injection and four-speed automatic transmission, the big Benz enjoyed effortless performance. The bigger 5-litre M117 V8 developed 240 bhp at 4750 rpm and made the 500SEC the perfect autobahn express, with a top speed in excess of 140 mph. The SEC's cabin retained all the luxury features of the sedans, including electric seats with unique multi-directional controls, climate control, power windows and central locking. Additionally the coupe was equipped with new front and rear seats, the latter individually contoured, with velour trim (leather was optional) and a retractable seat-belt arm. The bespoke SEC was produced in limited numbers and was considerably more expensive than the sedan but these superlative German super coupes have never been more affordable and can only appreciate in the future.