Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
LOT 215
1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Cabriolet Conversion VIN. WDB12604412001789
Sold for US$10,925 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 215
1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Cabriolet Conversion
1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Cabriolet Conversion
VIN. WDB12604412001789
VIN. WDB12604412001789
4,973cc M117 SOHC V8 Engine
Bosch Jetronic Fuel Injection
245bhp
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
*Comprehensive convertible conversion with wild 80s looks
*Pure 80's Glam in metallic red with gold anodized trim
*Period alloys and styling parts
*55,661 miles shown
*Requires Recommissioning
THE CAR OFFERED
Originally delivered in Germany, this car started life as a 500 SEC coupe in Lapis Blue over Grey leather. Early in its life, it was treated to an extensive open-top conversion, which a number of these cars received since Mercedes-Benz did not offer a full-size cabriolet at the time. Companies like Styling Garage Bremen, Straman, and Koenig performed these conversions for individual clients, though no documentation has been found to verify this car's origins. Regardless of who performed the conversion, it appears well-done with a full folding soft top that tucked neatly behind the seats, covered with a complementary leather boot for a look that recalled the factory's last full-size four-seat convertible, the 280 SE Cabriolet. In addition to the roof treatment, this car was refinished in a striking metallic red color scheme with red-piped white leather, red carpets, and a red canvas top. To complete the 1980s Glam look, it is dressed in period styling parts, the requisite gold-anodized exterior trim and Momo 5-spoke alloys – finished in gold, naturally. Top up or down, it looks ready to roll up to The Roxy or Whisky a Go Go circa 1983.
Beneath the skin, the car remains relatively standard, except for chassis reinforcements necessary to retain the SEC's signature solidity. This car shows just 55,661 miles at the time of cataloguing, which is a mere fraction of what a W126 is capable of. While in good overall condition reflecting its low mileage, it has not been started while in Bonhams' care, and will require recommissioning work prior to enjoyment.
Footnotes
Note, due to California emissions laws, this vehicle may only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside the state of California or to a licensed automotive dealer.
Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistSpecialist section
Auction Viewings
Bid now on these items
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1980 Ducati 900 MHR
£7,000 - £9,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1914 Sunbeam 3½hp
£8,000 - £12,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1975 Ducati 750 GT
£8,000 - £10,000
