Johnny Carson's 1988 Mercedes 560SEC Showcased at DFW Museum

The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, is showcasing a remarkable piece of automotive and celebrity history: the 1988 Mercedes-Benz 560SEC formerly owned by legendary late-night television host Johnny Carson. This pillarless coupe, sold by Mercedes-Benz of Beverly Hills with a then-staggering MSRP of $77,910, represented the absolute pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and luxury during its era. As the flagship of the W126 S-Class line, it was one of the most expensive production cars available in the United States during the late 1980s, perfectly matching Carson's reputation for discerning taste and understated elegance. The vehicle remained in Carson's possession until 2003, adding significant celebrity provenance to its already impressive automotive credentials.

The car's significance extends beyond its celebrity ownership, having been featured in The Star magazine, the official publication of the Mercedes-Benz Club of America. Museum founder Ron Sturgeon, who once owned an identical 560SEC himself, shares a personal anecdote that captures the car's spirit and era. Sturgeon recalls an incident where he became distracted by another driver while cruising in his own 560SEC, resulting in a curb collision that damaged a wheel. His wife Kathi's response—"YOU GOT JUST WHAT YOU DESERVED"—perfectly encapsulates the blend of automotive passion and human experience that makes such vehicles memorable. The story, like the car itself, represents an era where bold design, personal narratives, and celebrity culture converged on American roads.

The DFW Car & Toy Museum, now located in North Fort Worth at 2550 McMillan Parkway, offers visitors the opportunity to explore this iconic Mercedes-Benz 560SEC alongside hundreds of other automotive and cultural artifacts. The massive 150,000-square-foot facility provides free parking and admission, operating Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Founded by automotive enthusiast Ron Sturgeon, whose passion for cars began in his teenage years repairing Volkswagens, the museum has evolved from his personal collections into a major cultural destination. Visitors can explore the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com for more information about this unique automotive experience that celebrates vehicles that left their mark on the world and the people who drove them.