Buying a luxury car for the price of a used economy sedan sounds like a dream. But for one car enthusiast, that dream came true, and now it’s surprisingly hard to walk away from it.
A professional car rebuilder named Randy Sheer recently bought a 2009 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG for only $12,000 at an auction. When it was brand new, this car had a price tag close to $200,000.
The car was featured on Auto Auction Rebuilds, where Randy often shares his projects. He usually buys cars, fixes them up, and sells them quickly. But this time, things are different.
A Luxury Sedan That Still Looks Brand New
Even though the Mercedes is almost 17 years old and has 120,000 miles (193,121 km) on it, you would never guess by looking at it. The black-on-black luxury sedan still looks classy, modern, and expensive.
To make the car look its best, Randy sent it to a professional detailing studio. The interior and exterior were deeply cleaned using steam, then covered with a ceramic coating to protect the paint and make it shine. After the work was done, the car looked like it had just rolled out of a showroom.
Side by side with newer cars, the S65 AMG still turns heads.
Massive Power From a Legendary V12 Engine
Under the hood, this car hides something very special. The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG from the W221 generation is powered by a twin-turbocharged V12 engine.
Back in 2009, carmakers were not yet focused on small engines or electric power. At the time, Mercedes-AMG believed bigger was better, and this car proves it.
The V12 engine produces:
- 604 horsepower
- 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque
Power is sent through a five-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission, pushing the luxury sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds, with a top speed limited to 155 mph (250 km/h).
Despite its size and comfort-focused design, the S65 AMG is incredibly fast.
Inside Feels Like a Luxury Lounge
Step inside the cabin, and the car feels more like a private jet than a sedan.
The seats are wrapped in diamond-stitched leather and offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Alcantara lines the roof, adding to the premium feel. A panoramic sunroof lets sunlight fill the cabin, making every drive feel special.
Music comes through a high-end Bang & Olufsen sound system, but many drivers may prefer listening to the deep rumble of the V12 engine instead.
Even in traffic, the S65 remains quiet, smooth, and comfortable, turning boring commutes into relaxing experiences.
Packed With Advanced Technology
For a car built in 2009, the S65 AMG was far ahead of its time. It comes with:
- Night View Assist for better visibility in the dark
- DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control
- PRE-SAFE safety system with automatic braking
- Active Body Control suspension to reduce body roll and improve comfort
These features helped make the S65 one of the most advanced luxury sedans of its era. See more Photos
Giving It Away, But Not Without Regret
Randy originally planned to sell the car or flip it for profit. Instead, he decided to give it away, meaning he won’t make any money from the project.
That’s unusual for him, and it shows how special this car really is.
Even now, he admits it’s hard to let go. So hard, in fact, that he’s already searching for another S65 AMG to replace it. The only possible replacement? Another S65, this time with around 90,000 miles (144,841 km).
A Reminder of a Different Era
This story is more than just a good deal on a used car. It’s a reminder of a time when luxury cars were built without compromise, with huge engines, premium materials, and comfort above all else.
For $12,000, Randy didn’t just buy a car. He bought a piece of automotive history, and saying goodbye might be the hardest part.
FAQs
Why are old luxury cars so cheap now?
Luxury cars lose value fast because repairs are expensive, parts cost more, and many buyers worry about maintenance after the warranty ends.
Is it safe to buy a high-mileage luxury sedan?
Yes, it can be safe if the car is well-maintained. You should always check service records and get a full inspection before buying.
How expensive is maintenance on a V12 engine?
Maintenance is very expensive. Oil changes, spark plugs, and repairs cost much more than those in normal cars. This engine needs expert care.
Can an old luxury car still feel new inside?
Yes. With proper cleaning and detailing, the interior can look and feel almost new, even after many years of use.
Is a 2009 performance sedan still fast today?
Yes. It can still keep up with many modern cars thanks to its strong engine and high torque.
Why do people avoid buying old high-end cars?
Many buyers fear high repair bills, complex technology, and costly suspension or electronics problems.
Is it smart to buy a luxury car from an auction?
It can be smart if you know what you’re doing. Auctions offer low prices, but the buyer takes more risk than when buying from a dealer.
How much does it cost to keep a luxury car running yearly?
Yearly costs can range from a few thousand dollars to much more, depending on repairs, parts, and driving habits.
Does an old luxury car still have modern features?
Some do. Many older high-end cars already had features like adaptive cruise control, night vision, and advanced safety systems.
Should I buy an old luxury car or a newer regular car?
If you want comfort and power and can afford maintenance, the luxury car is great. If you want low costs and peace of mind, a newer, regular car may be better.
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