The 1983 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL 6.0 AMG stands as one of the most provocative examples of pre-merger tuning history. Known famously as the “Red Baron,” this one-off S-Class was originally commissioned by William “Wild Bill” Witz. He was a central figure in the early American AMG story and a close friend of founder Hans Werner Aufrecht. Clad in striking Orient Red, the car served as a manifesto against automotive restraint and a billboard for AMG’s capabilities. It eventually moved into the hands of super-client J. Paul Fingold, where it underwent a massive mechanical evolution. This flagship sedan represents the high-water mark of 1980s excess, blending German engineering with bespoke luxury. Today, it remains a significant artifact of the era when AMG functioned as a daring independent tuning house. Finding a vehicle with this level of documented pedigree and celebrity connection is incredibly rare for modern collectors.
The Evolution of the Red Baron Aesthetic
Visually, the 1983 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL 6.0 AMG is impossible to ignore thanks to its monochrome Orient Red finish. It features a full AMG aero kit and color-matched 16-inch Penta wheels that define the aggressive period look. Inside, the cabin was tailored by Gemballa with extended palomino leather and distinctive red piping throughout the space. Custom door cards and a Clarion G80 sound system stack ensure the interior environment matches the bold exterior statement. During the late eighties, the car received a complete conversion to the Gen-II AMG styling package. This update included a rare, USA-only SEC-type front spoiler that further distinguishes it from standard W126 models. The craftsmanship remains outstanding, showcasing the work of legendary shops across North America and Canada. Every detail reinforces the “Red Baron” nickname that has followed this car for four decades.
Mechanical Mastery and the 6.0L Drivetrain
While it began life with a tuned 5.0-liter unit, this 1983 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL 6.0 AMG eventually received a massive heart transplant. The engine was bored to 6.0 liters and fitted with rebalanced internals by specialists likely associated with Motorkraft. Technicians at AMG North America ported and polished the cylinder heads while retaining the stock camshafts for driveability. This 117.968 unit utilizes Bosch KE fuel injection and high-diameter aluminum intake pipes to maximize total airflow. To handle the increased torque, the car uses a re-valved four-speed transmission sourced from a 560 SL donor. A limited-slip differential and a custom sports exhaust system ensure the power is delivered with both traction and authority. The result is a sedan that possesses the high-speed touring capabilities of a modern performance car. It offers a visceral driving experience that few vintage luxury cars can replicate.
Recent Resurrection and Provenance
After decades of quiet storage in Nevada and California, the Red Baron returned to the spotlight in 2024. Richard Buxbaum, the founder of AMG North America, reacquired the car and commissioned a total mechanical and cosmetic resurrection. Over $50,000 was invested in sorting the fuel system, timing chain, and Bilstein sport suspension components. Specialists at Willow Automotive and The Last Detail handled the exhaustive recommissioning process over eighteen months. The car now indicates just 41,200 miles and sits on fresh Pirelli Cinturato P7 tires. It recently appeared at the ultra-exclusive Pre-Merger AMG Reunion in Chicago, where it was a featured star entrant. This thorough sorting ensures the car is ready for high-speed touring or prestigious concours exhibitions. It remains a beautifully documented piece of the ambitious early American chapter of the AMG brand.
The bored 6.0-liter V-8 engine delivers massive torque and is paired with a re-valved 722.313 four-speed automatic transmission. Performance is further enhanced by an AMG sport suspension and upgraded front brakes designed to manage the sedan’s significant weight. The engine features rebalanced internals and ported cylinder heads that significantly improve throttle response over the factory 500 SEL. A custom sports exhaust system feeds into an original AMG muffler to provide a deep, sophisticated V8 soundtrack. For long-distance reliability, the car includes an ingenious hidden auxiliary fuel tank with a modified sender unit for accurate readings. The 117.968 engine block also benefits from new mounts, drive belts, and a recalibrated fuel-injection system. This mechanical package represents the absolute peak of period tuning technology available during the late 1980s. It provides a level of power and stability that defined the AMG “Hammer” era.
Summary of a Pre-Merger Performance Legend
This 1983 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL 6.0 AMG is a legendary survivor that captures the rebellious spirit of early German tuning. Its “Red Baron” moniker and Orient Red paint make it one of the most recognizable W126 builds in existence. The car’s history, stretching from “Wild Bill” Witz to its recent Buxbaum-led restoration, is a masterclass in automotive provenance. Every modification, from the Gemballa leather to the 6.0-liter engine conversion, was performed during the period by the best in the business. It stands as a testament to the era before AMG was integrated into the Daimler corporate structure. The recent $50k investment ensures that the next custodian receives a car that is as mechanically sound as it is visually striking. For the serious AMG collector, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a foundational piece of the marque’s history. It is a one-off masterpiece that will likely never appear on the market in this condition again.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
