Rare Manual AMG Hammers Set to Hammer Down at Amelia Island Auction, Expected to Fetch Millions

Two exceedingly rare, manual transmission AMG Hammers are poised to ignite bidding wars at the upcoming Amelia Island Concours auction. Gooding & Company estimates the 1988 300E 6.0 sedan could fetch $1.25-$1.75 million, while the 1989 300CE 6.0 coupe is expected to command $1.5-$2 million. These aren't your average late-80s Mercedes. Commissioned by Italian industrialist Raul Gardini, these are the only two known 6.0-liter AMG Hammers to receive a bespoke five-speed Getrag manual transmission directly from the factory. The sedan, finished in Blue Black Metallic, boasts a 370 horsepower V8, capable of exceeding 190 mph. Its history includes ownership by a controversial Italian car collector whose assets were seized by the government. The Anthracite Grey Metallic coupe, while having a less dramatic past, features a widebody kit and three-piece wheels. Both vehicles have been meticulously inspected and verified by AMG Classic and MKB Manufaktur, complete with certificates of authenticity and original documentation. Offered as separate lots, these Hammers represent a unique opportunity for collectors of pre-merger AMG vehicles. The auction takes place March 6-7.