MERCEDES BENZ S-Klasse Coupe (C126) 1981-1992 Photos, engines & full specs

Mercedes-Benz launched the 380 SEC and 500 SEC at the 1981 Frankfurt Motor Show. It was the successor of the previous SLS range, and it was based on the same platform with the S-Class W126.

With a high-demand for personal luxury coupes, Mercedes-Benz offered a new generation of S-Class coupe in the form of the SEC models, in 1981. Its success was so big that the car-maker decided to make it until 1992. The SEC was facelifted in 1984.

From the outside, the sleek coupe line was inspired by the four-door sedan version, but it didn't carry too many body panels from that. The front fascia was similar, but not the same. A different grille design and similar headlights were installed. The raked A-pillars and the long front doors were a stylish mark for the SEC generation. The B-pillar was removed and with all four windows rolled down, it looked like a faux-cabriolet.

Inside, the car offered seating for four. It was the first car to feature a seat belt presenter. When the doors were closed, and the engine started, the presenters extended the shoulder anchor to the front passengers, to ease the reach and grab of seat belts. The standard version featured cloth seats, while in the upper trim level the leather upholstery and the wood grain on the dash, center console, and stack were standard fit.

In the U.S., the SEC was available with the 3.8-liter V8 engine only, due to the CAFE regulations. Some gray imports allowed the introduction of some 500 SEC until the law was changed and the potential customers couldn't buy them anymore. The standard transmission for the entire range was a 4-speed automatic. In 1985, the 3.8-liter unit was replaced by the larger 4.2-liter and the 5.6-liter V8 was introduced.