R Straman Company and Mercedes-Benz

 1980' 560SEC Convertible by R Straman Company

The Mercedes-Benz W126 was the flagship of the Mercedes range, premiering in 1979, and the 2nd generation to bear the ‘S’ Class name, referring to Sonderklasse or "special class." In September 1981, 2-door coupé versions of the W126 were introduced. The W126 line also introduced many Mercedes-Benz safety innovations, including the first airbag supplemental restraint systems, seatbelt pretensioners, and traction control.
Offered when new through Mercedes dealers a convertible option was introduced in 1983 and executed by well regarded R Straman Company in Costa Mesa, California. Straman established a deserved reputation for quality convertible conversions, building on the experience of original coachbuilders and perfecting materials, design and workmanship. Taking the roof off numerous marques and models including the likes of Ferrari, a Straman conversion today is tantamount to a factory original in acceptance of their quality and performance. The exemplary workmanship of the company is felt in the drivability of the cars, - they are tight, rigid, strong and reliable. The owner of a Straman convertible could be confident of enjoying the performance and handling designed into the car as well as confidence in its strength, quiet and freedom from wiggle, rattle, shake and vibration. As such, Straman conversions were not inexpensive, either, costing about $50,000 in the 1980's.

Straman completed only 116 W126s in total across 380, 500 and 560 SEC models.

Mercedes-Benz Tuners List