Only 12 examples of the widebody SEC V12 Sledgehammer will be built, each combining bespoke craftsmanship with a 660-horsepower evolution of Mercedes’ legendary M120 engine.
Sledgehammer Returns
Renntech’s newest project revisits one of Mercedes-Benz performance culture’s most memorable names with the SEC V12 Sledgehammer, a modern restomod built on the C126-generation SEC coupe. The Florida-based tuner, which has spent over three decades specializing in Mercedes performance upgrades, describes the car as both a tribute to AMG’s excess-filled 1980s output and a celebration of the iconic M120 V12 engine.
A Bigger, Louder V12
At the heart of the build sits a heavily reworked version of Mercedes’ M120 naturally aspirated V12. Originally found in high-end S-Class and SL models of the 1990s, and later immortalized in the Pagani Zonda, the engine has been enlarged to 7.5 liters by Renntech. Output is claimed at 660 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most potent road-going versions of the engine ever offered outside of limited Zonda variants.
Engineering the Soundtrack
Although the M120 was originally engineered for smoothness and refinement, Renntech aims to give this version a far more dramatic character. The company developed custom equal-length headers so the engine delivers what it calls “a signature V12 sound,” echoing the high-revving tone that made the Zonda famous. Final transmission details remain undisclosed, though the car is expected to maintain traditional rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
A Widebody Transformation
Visually, the Sledgehammer departs sharply from the understated elegance of the original SEC. Renntech’s redesign introduces widened front and rear fenders, a custom hood, new grille treatment, and heavily reworked quarter panels. Additional aerodynamic components include revised bumpers, functional ducting, a rear diffuser, and a lip spoiler, all intended to enhance both stance and airflow management rather than serve purely cosmetic purposes.
Modern Hardware Underneath
The widened bodywork allows for larger forged wheels and upgraded braking hardware, bringing the classic coupe closer to modern performance standards. While Renntech has yet to reveal detailed chassis specifications, the build is clearly intended to balance contemporary handling capability with the SEC’s original grand touring comfort.
Bespoke Cabin Options
Interior details remain under wraps, but Renntech confirms buyers will be offered fully customized cabin treatments. Materials, finishes, and design themes will be tailored per customer, allowing each of the twelve cars to carry a unique interior identity rather than following a standardized specification.
Ultra-Limited Production
Exclusivity is central to the project. Production will be capped at just 12 examples worldwide, with the first customer cars expected to be completed starting in 2027. Pricing has not been announced, but given the bespoke nature of the builds and the extensive mechanical reengineering involved, availability will be extremely limited.
The Sledgehammer name itself references AMG’s infamous “Hammer” models of the late 1980s, machines that turned relatively restrained Mercedes sedans and coupes into some of the fastest road cars of their time. Renntech’s reinterpretation follows that spirit, combining excess, engineering bravado, and craftsmanship, this time applied to one of Mercedes’ most recognizable luxury coupes.
