This striking Italian-market S-Class coupé (C126) was completed at Sindelfingen in May 1990. It was subsequently modified early in its life with an extensive suite of visual and mechanical à la carte improvements from AMG. Finished in the archetypical “Youngtimer” shade of Blue-Black Metallic over black leather, its factory specification—which included the very rare and desirable trip computer option—has been augmented by desirable AMG features, such as a 300 km/h speedometer, and a bored out 6.0-litre AMG V-8 engine topped with DOHC heads. The powerplant fitted to this example is of a transitional type—the M117/9 “hybrid”—a fascinating amalgamation of the latest M117 block and accessories, with newer M119 heads, all modified to AMG specifications and factory-rated at 380 PS.

AMG’s second-generation ground-effect kit for the C126— as shown on this car—vastly alters the appearance of Bruno Sacco’s pillarless coupé design, transforming it from graceful to vengeful. A set of weathered—but entirely period-correct—"Aero III” wheels are wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza rubber to complete the AMG cosmetic package. Though not given AMG’s famous “wide body” treatment, this 6.0-litre coupé still delivers breath-taking performance despite its supremely discreet appearance. Having been in the ownership of the consignor since 2000, this wonderfully menacing example would make an excellent addition to any collection of modern classics, Youngtimers, Q-cars, or pre-merger AMGs.