The MB Market recently showcased an exceptional vehicle: an authentic Amg Hammer coupe, offering a rare glimpse into pre-merger AMG history. This presented a unique opportunity to delve into the story of a car that redefined high-performance luxury sedans. Spending time with the owner and examining the car revealed not just a vehicle, but a piece of automotive history, remarkably preserved.
Back when this car was conceived, AMG operated as an independent tuning house, separate from Mercedes-Benz. AMG North America, based in Westmont, IL, crafted this particular Hammer during an era known for its limitless customization possibilities – where the only constraint was the client’s budget. Customers could personalize their Mercedes-Benz vehicles with a wide array of cosmetic enhancements, from interior refinements to striking body kits and wheels. Beyond aesthetics, AMG offered substantial performance upgrades, ranging from suspension and exhaust modifications to the iconic, bored-out 6.0L DOHC M117 engine. It’s estimated that only around 30 AMG Hammers were produced globally, with a mere 13 destined for the North American market, highlighting its extreme rarity.
Alt text: Silver AMG Hammer coupe parked outdoors, showcasing its classic Mercedes-Benz lines and AMG modifications.
The AMG Hammer’s legendary status is cemented by both its performance and the captivating stories surrounding individual examples. This particular car’s journey adds another layer to its mystique. Reportedly sold by Andy Cohen of Beverly Hills Motoring after its AMG build, the first owner’s inaugural drive was from Beverly Hills to Las Vegas. This initial journey took an unexpected turn when, upon arrival in Las Vegas, a speeding stop led to the car’s seizure by the D.E.A. due to the discovery of illegal substances. Subsequently, the car was acquired at a federal D.E.A. auction by Rob Deer, a former MLB professional baseball player. Documentation confirming this interesting ownership history is available, further solidifying the car’s unique provenance. Rob Deer owned the Hammer for two years before trading it to Symbolic International. Eventually, the current seller initially sourced the car on behalf of another owner, only to reacquire it in 2006. It remained in storage until recently, preserving its remarkable condition.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of an AMG Hammer, highlighting the plush leather seats, rich wood trim, and classic Mercedes-Benz design elements.
The combination of exceptional condition, extreme rarity, and formidable performance is amplified by the car’s sophisticated, almost “sinister,” color scheme. This combination undoubtedly enhances its desirability for collectors. The market value for these ultra-rare AMG Hammers has surged in recent years, with most transactions occurring privately in the high six-figure range. This makes public opportunities to acquire such a vehicle exceptionally noteworthy. There’s little doubt that an AMG Hammer represents an appreciating asset, especially as the pre-merger AMG market continues its upward trajectory. Owning an AMG Hammer is more than just acquiring a car; it’s obtaining a tangible piece of automotive history. This is the car that established the benchmark for the high-performance luxury sedan as we recognize it today, indelibly etching AMG’s name among the automotive greats. The AMG Hammer is not just a car, it’s a legend.
