Prior to its merger with Daimler AG, AMG was an independent tuner that was established in 1967 by Daimler-Benz engineers Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher (the G is for Grossaspach, Aufrecht’s birthplace). AMG would modify engines and sell performance accessories that customers could use to upgrade their Mercedes-Benz automobiles. By the 1980s, customers were special-ordering Mercedes-Benzes through AMG with expensive modifications, yet the two companies’ first joint product, the AMG C36, would not be introduced until 1993.

Arguably the most legendary of these “pre-merger” automobiles is the 560 SEC AMG. Powered by a 6.0-liter V-8, the engine itself was designed and built at Affalterbach using AMG custom quad-cam head with four valves per cylinder, producing twice the torque at half the engine speed of the original 5.6-liter engine. On the outside, the car was fitted with distinctive AMG-designed front and rear fenders and door panels that allowed much wider wheels and tires to be fitted.

While not much is known about the history of this example, the current owner purchased the car in Japan in 2017, where it is believed to have been delivered new. Subsequently imported to Switzerland, it joined a number of other pre-merger AMG creations. It presents well in its sinister black on black color scheme, beautifully contrasted inside with wood trim and an upgraded stereo and navigation system affixed in front of the passenger seat.

With such extensive work, the cost of commissioning such a Mercedes-Benz was a breathtaking $200,000. Nevertheless, the AMG 560 SEC 6.0 developed a passionate following, and they are still fiercely sought after today for their incredible looks and equally impressive performance. This example will surely command attention wherever its travels.