1992 MERCEDES-BENZ (W124) 500 E 6.0 AMG - LHD

This Mercedes-Benz 500 E 6.0 AMG is a stylish super saloon and a cult modern classic, combining brutish performance with a number of cosmetic upgrades. Under the bonnet is a mammoth 6.0-litre ‘M119’ V8 producing 374hp and 580Nm of torque – a significant rise over the 500 E with its 320hp and 480Nm of torque. The 500E 6.0 was launched in 1992 and ended its production in 1993 – the predecessor to the E60 AMG that came later with the same engine. The engine is mated to a four-speed automatic gearbox. The odometer shows 214,202 km (133,098 miles).

Originally supplied new to the Japanese market, this left-hand drive 500 E is understood to have been converted by AMG to its 6.0 specification very soon after delivery. While there is no official certificate or build sheet in the history file – as often is the case with these early AMG conversions – email correspondence dating from June 2020 with an official at Mercedes-AMG GmbH states that they acknowledge that this upgrade was undertaken by AMG in October 1992, and that as such that is a confirmed official 6.0 conversion. It not only included the upgrade to the M119 powertrain, but also the revised AMG spring and shock absorber chassis setup, AMG tailpipes, three-piece split-rim alloy wheels, and a 300km/h speedometer. The car also carries plaques on the chassis and the engine, confirming the commission number and engine and chassis numbers, as well as the technical output of the engine.

While this 500 E left the factory finished in Brilliant Silver, it was at some point colour changed to its current hue of Obsidian Black. Not only this, but the car has also been enhanced with wide-body front and rear steel wings, chromed AMG dual oval tips, black badging, and upgraded wheels. The car remained in Japan until last year, when it was transported to a collection in Norway.

The pinnacle of its model generation, the 500 E was developed in tandem with Porsche, devising changes to the chassis, suspension and bodywork to accommodate the V8 from the SL. The car was also assembled by hand on Porsche’s factory line in Zuffenhausen as the revised bodywork was too large to fit through the regular Mercedes-Benz W124 assembly line.

The bodywork and paint are described as being in generally good condition, and clearly exude a menacing aura. The bluff front end is free of any major stone chips, and while there is moisture visible around the front light lenses, the seller explains that this was due to the car being washed shortly before the photoshoot. The front-right indicator lens is chipped on the lower corner. Minor signs of ‘road rash’ are evident at both ends of the driver’s and passenger’s side sills.

While the Mercedes retains many original features, the standard-fit headlight wipers have been deleted, as has the Mercedes-Benz bonnet star. The car rides on two-piece Sport Technic alloy wheels, which are in good condition thanks to a recent refurbishment, with no kerbing marks.

Inside, the Mercedes’ opulent black leather interior has been complemented by carbon-fibre effect trim taking the place of walnut wood inlays. A dark headliner has also been fitted in place of the original, while the steering wheel and gear knob also have carbon accents. The vendor notes that some of the carbon-effect trims are slightly loose in places, and there are small marks on the trim that are commensurate with the mileage. However, the leather seats are free of rips and tears, and show only modest wear around the seat bases.

Well-specified from the factory, this 500 E has electric windows, electrically-adjustable and heated front seats with memory function, sunroof, automatic climate control and a boot-mounted CD changer. As befitting the marque’s reputation for sturdy craftsmanship, the vendor notes that everything is working – with only the SRS airbag light intermittently illuminating.

The Porsche-fettled and AMG-enhanced super saloon was last serviced in July 2020 at 214,000 km (132,973 miles) by an independent garage in Norway. This constituted replacement of the engine oil, gearbox oil and differential oil, plus all filters, the spark plugs and new coils. A new Becker Continental Bluetooth/DAB radio stereo system was also fitted, with the right rear wheel bearing also replaced.

The most recent roadworthiness test of the vehicle was carried out in Japan in 2018 at 207,800 km (129,120 miles), and it is reported to be in good mechanical condition. The vendor does not a slight whining noise coming from the rear of the car during higher speed driving, which is believed to be either a wheel bearing or the differential. The Mercedes rides on Continental tyres on all four corners, which are new at the front, and with around 5mm of tread at the rear.

Offering rarity and desirability in spades, this Mercedes-Benz 500 E 6.0 AMG is a bespoke 1990s powerhouse that now also features some choice aesthetic upgrades. While a standard 500 E still has something of a Q-car appearance, there can be no doubt about the blistering powertrain under the widened bodywork of this AMG-converted 6.0-litre example. This is the sort of car that was built for demolishing derestricted autobahns, but it is sure to impress its next owner wherever they choose to drive it, and would be a great addition to any collection of modern classics.

Please note: this car is taxes-paid in Norway, but it is understood that it would attract additional duties and VAT if imported to and registered in an EU Customs Union member country. Bidders should check the requirements for import in their own country.

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