1983 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC ABC-Exclusive Widebody | Global Icons: The Patina Collective
1983 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC ABC-Exclusive Widebody | Global Icons: The Patina Collective
Chassis No. WDB12604412006137
Founded in Bonn, Germany, ABC Exclusive was among the more niche independent Mercedes-Benz coachbuilders of the 1980s, specializing in bespoke luxury and styling conversions rather than outright performance enhancements. Working in limited numbers and largely to individual customer specifications, the company became known for dramatic body modifications that transformed the appearance of Mercedes-Benz models while retaining their underlying engineering and drivability. Today, surviving ABC conversions represent a seldom-seen chapter in the era's flourishing German tuning and coachbuilding culture.
This 1983 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC was delivered new to Spain and was generously specified from the factory with a comprehensive suite of comfort and convenience equipment, including automatic climate control, electrically operated sliding roof, cruise control, anti-lock brakes, orthopedic front seats, rear headrests, headlamp wipers and washers, illuminated vanity mirrors, a Becker Mexico cassette stereo, and 15-hole light-alloy wheels.
Subsequently commissioned with a comprehensive ABC Exclusive widebody conversion, the coachwork incorporates a GT-style front bumper, widened front fenders, extended rear quarter panels with distinctive louvered fins flowing into the doors, a matching wide rear bumper, and a trunk lid spoiler. Finished in Bordeaux Metallic over a Palomino leather interior, the car further benefits from 17-inch Forged Line forged five-spoke wheels, lending a purposeful, period-correct stance.
The car was imported to the U.S. by April 2009 when the clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report begins in Ohio. The car was then acquired by The Patina Collective in 2023, this ABC Exclusive survivor remains largely unrestored and presents as a running and driving project. The car exhibits general age-related wear consistent with its originality, while isolated rust is visible at the lower rear edge of the trunk lid. Representing a rare opportunity to acquire an uncommon period coachbuilt Mercedes-Benz, it offers an ideal foundation for sympathetic preservation or light restoration.
Please note that while the seller has confirmed this car was started and able to idle, it has been in static storage for an extended period and should receive additional mechanical servicing prior to road use.