1962 | Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

We have had some exceptional Mercedes Benz 190SL’s over the years but this one is without doubt the very best we’ve ever offered onto the market. With just 562 RHD examples built, the 190SL has always been an incredibly sought after car, but finished in arguably the best colour combination, retaining matching numbers and with just a few hundred miles in the eight years since a complete full bare shell rebuild by one of the UK’s most respected and established 190SL specialists who have been rebuilding these cars for over 40 years, this is something quite special.

The Mercedes Benz had spent many years with a Doctor owner in Cheshire but by 2016 the car was in need of some major work. The car was taken to 190SL expert Bryan Gunney of Redcastle Classics in South Wales and due to the level of work required, the 190SL was to be sold in need of a full restoration. The car was then purchased by its recent owner of eight years in January 2016 with the brief to rebuild the car to the very highest of standards. Redcastle Classics completely stripped the car to the bare shell and by October 2016 the car was completed to show class condition.

The bodyshell was found to be very straight but required various metal work and new panels as expected. The shell was completely restored and then prepared for a top class re-paint to include the inside and underneath of the shell. With the bodywork and paintwork process in progress, the engine was subject to a full rebuild, as was the gearbox, front and rear suspension. The braking system and steering was completely overhauled, as was the fuel, cooling and electrical system. All ancillaries were renewed as required, all the instruments rebuilt and the car then carefully, meticulously built back up to show condition. The upholstery was completed re-trimmed, a new hood fitted and the car completely re-chromed.

Having covered so few miles since restoration the 190SL drives as you'd expect it to having recently come out of the showroom in 1962. Its truly outstanding on the road with a fabulous road holding, the rebuilt engine sounds and performs perfectly holding excellent oil pressure and the four speed gearbox is lovely and smooth. The 190SL pulls beautifully through the gears, brakes pull up nice and straight and the car cruises effortlessly. The engine bay detail is of a high standard, the underside matches in quality and the hood, hood cover and interior are superbly presented, including the pristine dashboard and switchgear. The paint finish is outstanding, the bodywork immaculate and the chrome beautiful. This is the finest we have ever offered to market, and is a car the more discerning of buyers will be proud to own.

Please not the registration mark 190SL is not included within the sale price, but sensible offers will be considered.