

This 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500SEC began life as a U.S. market example finished in Champagne Metallic (473) paint over Brazil Leather (273) and was exported from the United States in 2024 for the current owner who resides in Germany. The seller of the car is noted to be the owner’s brother-in-law who has also overseen the customization and modification of this 500SEC. Shown in factory colors, this example features a swapped 5.4L M113k Supercharged V8 paired to a 6-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels via a 2.47 rear end. Notable features include an AMG-style body kit, custom 17” Penta wheels in matching Champagne Metallic (473), a Ceika big brake kit, custom exhaust with catalytic converters in place, Bilstein B12 Pro suspension, and much more. Additionally, the seller has provided a substantial list of new and rebuilt parts contributing to the overall build of this custom 500SEC. It’s currently offered for sale by the owner and represented by the builder in Slovakia with previous import paperwork and a clean German title in the owner’s name.
Finished in the original Champagne Metallic (473) color, the car notably received a repaint when it was in the United States although it wasn’t documented. The seller indicates that paint meter readings give uniform numbers across the body. A tribute-style AMG body kit is featured and includes front and rear bumpers along with side skirts. The U.S. market headlamps remain in place. The seller notes minor flaws in the paint including small rock chips in the nose of the car and some anodized areas on the aluminum window trim along the side window sills. One previous paint repair mark is noted where the rear left wheel arch meets the “Sacco panel.” Detailed photos of the exterior can be found in the gallery and the included video.
Custom 17” Penta wheels are mounted and finished in Champagne Metallic (473) across the spokes and outer barrel. New Toyo tires are mounted and measure 225/50 and 255/45 respectively to the front and rear wheels. The tires show 2023 date codes. Tucked behind the front wheels are 4-piston Ceika brakes finished in red paint. The rear brake calipers remain stock and have been rebuilt along with receiving new rotors and pads. The seller notes a new emergency brake pad was also installed. A Bilstein B12 Pro suspension kit has replaced all stock suspension with detailed underbody photos noted in the gallery.
The cabin remains largely original trimmed in Brazil Leather (273) across the seats, door cards, center console, and dashboard. Matching Brazil carpets are shown throughout with matching floor mats included. Burl wood veneer is featured on the doors and dashboard while a custom Burl veneer shift knob displays the Mercedes-Benz laurel. Interior features include power windows, a power sunroof, an OEM Becker head unit, new JBL speakers in factory sizes, and automatic climate control. Currently the power antenna extends 3/4's it's total length. The seller has agreed to replace the antenna prior to delivery.
The original airbag steering wheel frames a custom gauge cluster displaying a 300km/h speedometer, otherwise factory dials, deep orange needles, and chrome trim rings. The cluster is noted to be fully operational post-swap and function as intended. The odometer shows 223,599km (~138k miles).
The seller notes that if the auction winner desires any upfitted parts like Euro-market headlamps, a new head unit, or converting the cluster to MPH, the work can be facilitated prior to delivery at the buyer's expense. A Carfax report is included in the sale showing some history for the 500SEC until 2024 when it was exported to Germany. It’s currently offered for sale by the owner and represented by the builder in Slovakia with previous import paperwork and a clean German title in the owner’s name.
Open Transit:
Enclosed Transit:
The winning bidder will receive an email with the quote and option to proceed with shipping.

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