Founded in 1967 by a pair of former Mercedes-Benz engineers, AMG was primarily engaged in offering a range of performance upgrades and cosmetic packages for Mercedes-Benz automobiles. From 1986 until their 1993 merger, AMG also operated as the de facto works team and engine supplier representing Mercedes-Benz in Group A and Group N competitions.

By 1989, the jewel of AMG’s catalogue was the 6.0-liter, DOHC V-8 engine conversion for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. At a cost of $43,500, this performance package consisted of taking a stock 5.5-liter M117 V-8 engine and boring it out to 6.0 liters before equipping it with a set of proprietary, 32-valve cylinder heads which AMG had initially introduced in late 1985. Additional modifications like uprated brakes, aerodynamics, chassis upgrades, and limitless cosmetic accoutrements could easily knock the final price of fully kitted 560 SEL AMG 6.0 above $190,000.

This 1991 560 SEL AMG 6.0 is a Japanese-market car commissioned and assembled by AMG-Japan when new. Importantly, the DOHC powerplant fitted to this example is of a transitional type: The M117/9 “hybrid,” a fascinating amalgamation of the earliest M119 block and heads with latest M117 accessories, all cleverly mated together and stuffed with AMG internal components to supply approximately 375 horsepower. Compared to AMG’s earlier DOHC M117 motors, these later M117/9 hybrids are much more robust and reliable.

Though the car’s AMG engine has been restamped to match the unit listed on its factory data card, evident accessory components, stampings, AMG labels, as well as cylinder bore measurements confirm its 6.0-liter displacement and proper M117/9 configuration. Inspection of this SEL’s suspension and underbody assemblies reveal a proper complement of period-correct Japanese-market AMG modifications, including a 2.65-ratio Gleason-Torsen limited-slip AMG differential, full suspension, and four-piston brakes for the front wheels.

Though originally painted in Blue-Black Metallic, at some point during its Japanese residency this SEL was refinished in the period-correct shade of Astral Silver Metallic. The well-appointed black leather interior features an extensive AMG burlwood trim kit, rear tray tables, pleated leather door cards, and contrasting, white-faced AMG gauges which are fronted by a four-spoke, leather-wrapped AMG steering wheel. Externally, a full Generation II AMG body kit and Aero III OZ wheels give this impressive pre-merger offering just the right stance and menacing aura.

Pre-merger AMG-modified examples of this vintage (and displacement) are unquestionably some of the most iconic and recognizable German cars of their time, offering unparalleled luxury, performance, and German reliability wrapped in a visually stunning package.