1960 | Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

DATE OF MANUFACTURE: 19560 | COLOUR: ANTHRACITE GRAY METALLIC DB172 | INTERIOR TRIM: MID Red

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO OFFER FOR A SECOND TIME THIS EXCEPTIONAL RHD MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL RESTORED TO CONCOURS LEVEL OVERSEEN BY OUR PARRY CHANA

ORIGINAL UK DELIVERED CAR OWNED IN PERIOD BY MR R H JOHNSON (THE FOUNDER & FORMER CHAIRMAN OF THE MERCEDES BENZ CLUB UK). SOURCED SPECIFICALLY FOR MR DAVID GANDY & PROJECT MANAGED BY HIM TO AN EXCEPTIONAL STANDARD.

THE APPEAL
The Mercedes-Benz 190SL evocative of the mighty 300SL represents an era when cars were seen as a statement of style, rather than just a means of transportation. Its timeless beauty makes it a hugely desirable roadster of its era, still evoking a sense of elegance and charm today. With its user-friendly nature, elegant stature and superb build quality, it's the Mercedes that started the SL model bloodline as we see today.

THIS VEHICLE

CURRENTLY UNDER PREPARATION & AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING AT OUR SHOWROOM.

This vehicle will represent a good acquisition opportunity for a collector, investor or first-time classic car buyer as being a most desirable model reminiscent of the much valued 300SL Roadster & Gullwing coupe. It's available for viewing in the UK near Stanstead Airport CM3 1QX strictly on an appointment basis.

On sale on behalf of its owner as a consignment sale.

FINANCE & WARRANTY AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

MODEL HISTORY & PRODUCTION
In 1954, Mercedes displayed a concept version of the 190SL at the New York Auto show alongside the 300SL “Gullwing”. This concept came to market in 1955 as the 190SL, a more approachable, less intense sports car compared to the record-breaking 300SL 'Gullwing'. The factory offered for the causal weekend racer a Rennsport package, options of an aero screen, cut down doors which one could convert, removal of bumpers & lighten the 190SL. While the 190SL features a carbureted 1.9 liter inline four cylinder engine compared to the 300SL's direct-injected 3 liter slant six, they share basic engine design, suspension system, and level of detail and craftsmanship that defines Mercedes-Benz.

The new engine, which shared the same bore and stroke of the 300SL, was paired with dual Solex carburetors and produced just over 100 horsepower. This powerplant was paired with a fully synchronized 4-speed transmission that sent power to the rear swing axle. The 190SL implemented the same suspension systems as the 300SL, all it be a much stable low pivot point assembly, affording it confident handling and drivability without the tail happy nature of the 300SL “Gullwing”.

The 190SL is immediately recognizable as a Mercedes, featuring dramatic curves and through yet restrained use of brightwork that defined this era of Mercedes. Many styling cues are borrowed from the 300SL “Gullwing” as well, notably the massive three-pointed star in the grille, head lamps, bumpers, dash, early 190SL bucket seats as well as 'eyebrows' over the wheels all it be finished with chrome.

While the 190SL did not quite offer the performance of other sports cars of the era, the impeccable quality and attractive styling made the 190SL a massive success- selling 25,881 units before production ceased in 1963. Many of these models were delivered to the United States, where its driving demeanor and elegant styling were highly valued. The 190SL is an important part of the culture of small roadsters in the 1950s, as it demonstrated how luxurious the platform could be. Now much sort after & highly collectible due to its “Style & Beauty”.