This remarkable 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL, expertly recrafted by marque experts Bespoke Upholstery and Restoration, Inc. of Costa Mesa, California, benefits from a multi-year, nut-and-bolt refurbishment, replete with numerous well-executed upgrades, including a six-speed manual transmission, an AMG body kit, color-matched, period-style AMG wheels by OZ Racing, period-correct Recaro seats, factory-style, Euro-spec bumpers and headlights, and a fully customized interior.

Manufactured in July 1988, this 560 SL left the factory finished in Smoke Silver Metallic with a Beige leather interior and was delivered new to the United States. It came equipped with a Dark Brown fabric folding top, automatic climate control, power mirrors with heating function, a Becker Grand Prix AM/FM stereo with cassette player and power antenna, an anti-theft warning system, heat-insulating glass, a folding center armrest, and no rear spoiler. It was delivered to its original owner in Bridgehampton, New York and was acquired by the current owner in 2015.

A final model-year example of the R107-chassis SL with reportedly fewer than 34,000 miles on the odometer when the consignor acquired it, this 560 SL was an ideal candidate for a ground-up rebuild by Bespoke Restoration, known for crafting tasteful, creations with an authentic look and feel. A comprehensive, multi-year refurbishment, starting January 2016 and completed in December 2018, saw the vehicle completely disassembled and the chassis stripped to bare metal for refinishing. Every single part of this 560 SL is said to have been gone through and either replaced, restored, or refreshed as needed. New engine and suspension components are said to have been installed, along with a new six-speed manual transmission, greatly enhancing the driving experience. A 3.27:1 rear differential and full stainless-steel exhaust with custom "tri-Y” headers further improved performance, while the suspension was reportedly upgraded with Koni Classic struts and H&R springs. A six-piston, large-diameter front brake kit is said to have been installed to provide additional stopping power. Far more than just the sum of its high-end components, the numerous upgrades combine for a cohesive, refined, and exhilarating driving experience.

To achieve the stunning exterior transformation, the bodywork was resprayed in black and fitted with an AMG kit featuring a front air-dam, side skirts, and rear valance. The car’s original, ungainly US bumpers and quad headlamps gave way to more elegant Euro-spec bumpers and single-unit headlights retrofitted with Xenon projector beams. Amber driving lights, a discreet carbon-fiber rear spoiler made to AMG specification, and shadow-line trim in place of all exterior brightwork tastefully enhance the menacing profile. Completing the period performance look are stunning color-matched AMG Aero wheels by OZ Racing.

Meanwhile, the bespoke interior was completely refurbished in sumptuous red leather and melds period enhancements, such as an AMG steering wheel and Recaro seats, with modern touches. All wood trim was replaced with exquisitely executed carbon fiber, including the center console surround, door-panel inserts, door sills, and door handles. A matching carbon-fiber shift knob with red leather boot was also installed, along with authentic, white-faced AMG gauges. Leaving no detail unattended, the stereo system was also vastly improved by way of a McIntosh CD-player head unit connected to a German Helix V Eight DSP Mk2 amplifier driving no less than 10 speakers.

Built to an exceptionally high standard with well-executed and tasteful performance and cosmetic upgrades in the spirit of period AMG offerings, this customized 560 SL is truly one of a kind and an ideal acquisition for marque enthusiasts or AMG fans wishing to experience the superb luxury, engineering, and style of the R107 chassis executed at a markedly higher performance and aesthetic threshold than the original.