By the late 1980s, German tuner AMG was a respected but still independent customizer focused on enhancing the appearance and performance of Mercedes-Benz cars. It wouldn’t be until 1990 that Mercedes-Benz and AMG would join forces to have the smaller firm’s tuned cars available in the automaker’s showroom.

Still, the word about AMG was certainly out by the time this 560 SEC was commissioned by a Munich-based first owner. Embodying a quintessential late-1980s high-end tuner aesthetic, this coupe was recently refinished to the same exacting standards that were impressed upon the cars when they were new. If it were possible to time-travel to 1989, this 560 SEC AMG 6.0 would be the ultimate autobahn cruiser.

Originally dispatched to Mercedes-Benz’s Hanover, Germany, distribution center, the 560 SEC began as the flagship coupe of the Mercedes-Benz range, powered by a 5.5-liter M117 V-8 rated in factory specification at a then-heady 238 horsepower. AMG considerably revised the engine to create a dual-overhead-camshaft, bored-out 6.0-liter V-8 with modified cylinder heads good for as much as 385 horsepower. Famously, this engine powered the 188 mph AMG “Hammer” based on the smaller E-Class sedan.

Recently treated to a panel-off repaint in its original Blue-Black Metallic hue, this example has a subtly menacing look. Extra attention was paid to refitting the body panels, and new clips were used where necessary. The power sunroof was rebuilt, while new exterior chrome and Mercedes-Benz glass show just how discerning the restorers were. Period Monoblock wheels with new tires round out the car’s distinct appearance.

An AMG signature widebody kit includes enlarged fender flares that retain a stock-like appearance as well as a lower ground-effects kit as functional as it is stylish. Inside, leather Recaro sports seats reupholstered by AMG in Germany offer tremendous adjustment. The refinished burl wood dash houses an astounding number of controls for a car now considered a Classic. Of course, the stock steering wheel was replaced in favor of the distinctive, functional AMG unit, and it frames a refurbished instrument cluster. Additional interior work included installation of a rebuilt Becker Grand Prix cassette player, new climate control vents, and a new headliner. Accompanied by copies of AMG paperwork documenting its original modifications, this 6.0-liter 560 SEC is undoubtedly the finest example of the company’s early heyday.