1985-1991 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC
Average asking price*: $9,300
Collector status: Buy and drive
MB560SEC

If the 80s were about affluence, power and opulence, there were few cars better suited to express it than the W126 S-Class. It was big. It was luxurious. It was sleek. But it was also smart. Safe. And as the tagline stated at the time, engineered like no other car in the world. In short, it was uncompromising. It was the Flagship of the Mercedes-Benz product line, commanding a sticker price of over $65,000. With an incredible 12-year production run, no S-Class before or since has captured the essence of what it means to be a flagship for longer. It continues to be used in film and popular culture as the iconic Big-body Benz and doesn’t get much argument when referred to as classic. By the end of its production run in 1991, refinements—in styling, safety, appointments and drivetrain—led to the best of the breed. Along with the long-wheelbase 560 SEL sedan, the more personal 560 SEC coupé evokes power and panache like few cars throughout history. Even today, it is perfectly at home in just about any environment where style and grace meet suave and sexy.

Although production numbers for the 560 SEC are far higher than for the 380 SEC it replaced (the even more rare 420 SEC was never imported to the US), it remains the more sought after. This is primarily due to its big 272-hp V8 that holds a 70 hp advantage over its predecessor. Subtle styling changes like softened bumpers and rocker panels updated the appearance as did 15″ slotted flat wheels, replacing the 14″ Premeire or “bundt” wheels that had been a Mercedes-Benz icon since 1969. Driving a 560 SEC, there’s no glazing over that this is a big, brawny, car, yet precise steering and a rear self-leveling suspension keep it from becoming boatlike. Adequately bolstered dual-stage heated seats add to the driving experience while in familiar Mercedes-Benz surroundings like leather and burl walnut in a climate-controlled cabin. And there is of course that unmistakable classic Mercedes feeling of safety and security through exceptional build quality. It has a road feel that is lost in modern cars, yet it fells perfectly current. In short, it’s a Mercedes-Benz.

Values of the 560 SEC have remained steady over the past few years. Marquis examples however are commanding marquis prices and sell relatively quick so there is a demand for them. Some have become garishly modified pimp rides, but as a rule, they are the type of car that have been well cared for through proper maintenance, garaging and routine cleaning. Most have well over 100,000 miles, but lower mileage SECs are not uncommon. With over 28,000 built, it’s not an especially difficult hunt. The reward a statement of elegance and prestige, along with a classic presence that simply cannot be found in today’s luxury cars.