In the 1980s, luxury and exotic cars were two different breeds. Supercars were fast but difficult to drive, with cramped interiors and unergonomic controls. At the other end of the spectrum were cars like a Rolls-Royce - opens in new window or tab.. In the mid-1980s, these were cars to be chauffeured in, preferably with a jar of Grey Poupon at the ready. Buyers wanting comfort with performance went for a top-of-the-line Mercedes, like the 500 SEC recently sold on eBay Motors in Miami, Fla.
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Autobahn Cred
In 2025, whether you’re buying a Mercedes or a Lamborghini - opens in new window or tab., a certain level of luxury and technology is expected, as is a blistering zero-to-60 time. A Reagan-era exotic like a Lamborghini Countach - opens in new window or tab. had unmatched capabilities in its day, but requires gymnastic contortions to drive. You fold yourself into the wedge-like cabin. The clutch pedal feels like a piece of gym equipment. Backing out of a parking space requires hanging half your body under a scissor-like door.
The range-stopping Benz suited those who sought luxury and actually liked to drive. Mercedes-Benz based the SEC on the S-Class, removing two doors to form a raked roofline and pillarless side opening. It looked sleek and had Autobahn cred, but retained all the accoutrements of the flagship sedan.
High-Tech Conveniences
An all-aluminum 5.0-liter V-8 making 184 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque sits behind the three-pointed star grille. That’s not a lot compared to today, when some Mercedes produce over 600 horsepower. But, in 1985, that was powerful for a 3,750-pound coupe with Mercedes’ signature vault-like body panels.
The SEC also featured high-tech (for its day) conveniences, including anti-lock brakes, an optional airbag, and motorized seat belt extenders - opens in new window or tab. that delivered the buckle to shoulder position when the car started.
Though the SEC handled well, Mercedes didn’t push the performance envelope to the limit like its halo cars do today. There was still a lot of room for enhancements. That’s where AMG came in.
Tuning Specialist
The car for sale came with a long list of parts from the German Mercedes-tuning specialist. They include:
- Limited-slip differential
- Aero bumpers
The interior features an AMG M38 steering wheel made by Momo - opens in new window or tab. and AMG gauges - opens in new window or tab.. These items predate Mercedes’ AMG buyout and can be considered aftermarket parts. But they are still desirable and period correct. Plus, the SEC looks perfect in Miami Vice white.
Well Cared For
The seller also addressed several maintenance items and replaced worn parts, including engine, suspension, steering, and electrical system components. The Mercedes looked well cared for and showed like a car with far fewer than its 123,400 miles. That may explain its $54,900 Buy-It-Now price, which was high for a car with six-digit mileage.
When new, the 500 SEC cost around $57,000. That’s $171,600 in 2025 dollars. There weren’t many cars in that price range then, compared to today’s supercar-laden marketplace.
Today, most manufacturers offer similar products at similar price points, including many of Mercedes’ competitors. However, the 500 SEC filled a singular niche at the time. As such, it continues to stand out as an ’80s flagship.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.