1958 | Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

History of the Mercedes 190 SL

1955 was a milestone in automotive history when Mercedes-Benz presented the 190 SL at the Geneva Motor Show. It was regarded as the little brother of the legendary 300 SL “Gullwing”, with which it shared the elegant design language and technical sophistication. However, the 190 SL was less uncompromising and instead of racing genes offered a mixture of luxury, comfort and sporty driving pleasure, a classic “touring sports car” as Mercedes Benz itself described it.

The body of the 190 SL, designed by Karl Wilfert and Walter Häcker, captivates with its harmonious proportions, curved lines and subtle elegance. The roadster was offered both as an open vehicle with a fabric top and with an optional removable hardtop, which made it particularly versatile. Its design embodied the ideals of the 1950s: stylish but functional, and characterized by a lightness that reflected the lifestyle of the time.

Under the hood was a 1.9-liter in-line four-cylinder engine with an overhead camshaft, which produced a remarkable 105 hp for its time. Coupled with a four-speed manual gearbox, the 190 SL offered a top speed of around 170 km/h - impressive for an open-top sports car of this class. The precise coordination between the engine, chassis and the sophisticated independent suspension ensured a smooth driving experience that was both dynamic and comfortable.

Production of the 190 SL ran from 1955 to 1963 at the Sindelfingen plant, with a total of around 25,881 units being manufactured. It not only caused a sensation on the roads, but also quickly developed into a status symbol. Film stars and celebrities were among its enthusiastic buyers, further cementing the car's glamorous reputation.

However, the years did not leave the 190 SL unscathed. Rust and a lack of care took their toll on many examples, and today the stock is severely depleted. Well-preserved or restored models still fetch top prices at auctions today, and the 190 SL remains an icon of its time - a symbol of elegance, style and the carefree luxury of the 1950s.

Vita of the Mercedes 190 SL -SSC615 offered here

The 190 SL offered here was first delivered to the USA. It probably changed hands twice over the years before being imported back to Germany in 2013 and becoming part of a classic car collection here. A copy of the old American title is available. According to the last owner, this 190 was restored once in America and painted in its current color. However, we do not have any precise details or invoices for this. The engine was completely overhauled by a Mercedes specialist in 2013. A copy of the invoice is available. Since then, this 190 SL has been driven a maximum of 5000 km by the last owner. The complete technology has been freshly serviced by a classic specialist in 09/24. This Mercedes is therefore absolutely ready for its next outing. The paintwork, the chrome and the interior have a touch of patina. The soft top is as good as new. A very honest Mercedes 190 SL, not a thoroughly restored showroom beau. According to the chassis number, it is an example from 1958, but in the current German papers, remarkably, 01.07.1955 was entered as the first registration date

Summary

In short, a ravishing icon awaits the friend of German driving culture. The 190 SL is still a Mercedes Benz flagship today. A ravishing convertible to see and be seen. Anyone who drives such a classic demonstrates a sense of style and an appreciation of automotive history. A Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is more than just a car - it is a rolling work of art, a piece of history and a statement of elegance. With its classic design and technical reliability, it is an excellent choice for collectors, classic car enthusiasts and anyone looking for something special.

We, or our sister company Scuderia Sportiva Servizio (ex Alfa Classic Center) in Dortmund, will be happy to take care of future maintenance work. Visit us and don't miss out on this very fairly priced classic.

Please note:

We are selling this Mercedes 190 SL on behalf of the owner (agency business). This offer is subject to change and subject to prior sale. We provide support with registration/registration in Germany. If required, we will be happy to have a new valuation report drawn up. In Europe transport in a closed trailer, additional arrangement of container shipping for the rest of the world.

This classic offered here is located in our factory in 57548 Kirchen/Sieg, Jungenthaler Str. 1a. Here you will find a selection of 80 historically valuable sporty vehicles - ONLY BY PRIOR REGISTRATION. For more information about our service offer and selection of vehicles, please visit www.scuderia-sportiva-colonia.com

If you like everything you have read and seen so far and would like to view the car, PLEASE APPOINT AN APPOINTMENT! Spontaneous visitors are always welcome, but there is no guarantee that you will be able to view individual vehicles in detail. Attention! Our office is not permanently manned.

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