Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

Vehicle Description

Let’s not always talk about that unfortunate young lady of doubtful reputation! In the mid-1950s, many celebrities opted for the 190 SL, among them Frank Sinatra, Ringo Starr and Grace Kelly, to name only a few. And now, you too can become the proud owner of a beautiful 190 SL: This specimen in its silver paintwork with black leather interior is being offered for sale after 10 years with its current owner. The car was delivered in Cologne in 1956, which makes it an early model, and is reported to have had three owners previously. In 2007, the interior was renewed or refurbished, with attention given to dashboard, door side panels, carpet and all seats, including the transverse seat in the rear. Many chrome parts were done up, as was the brake system. The 1.9 litre four-cylinder engine was also reconditioned with original spare parts, such as pistons, valves, bearings, oil pump and timing chain. Fuel tank, exhaust, windscreen and all tyres were replaced as well. All in all this is a well-maintained roadster with no pending repairs, according to a recent expert appraisal.
The SL also features a Becker Le Mans radio, and in place of the popular Kienzle mechanical clock, there’s a battery-powered replica in the glove box lid. The car comes with German registration documents, valid technical approval until 06/2018 and historic plates.

The idea came from the United States. In the early fifties, Mercedes harboured no plans for a sports car. The plant, not yet completely rebuilt, was operating at full capacity manufacturing sedans and trucks. But Max Hofmann, exclusive distributor in the United States, convinced the Board of Mercedes-Benz at the board meeting of September 2, 1953 to construct a small sports car for the US market.
On February 6, 1954, the new car, internally named W121, was presented at the New York Motor Show. The front was based on the larger and simultaneously displayed Mercedes 300 SL, but the tail was wider and closer to the Ponton sedan 180. A top speed of 190 km/h, 110 hp and conversion options for racing purposes were promised. During its presentation, the 190 SL suffered a bit under the overbearing 300 SL, which was a great sensation, for hardly anyone would have expcected Mercedes to make such an impressive entry into the sports car segment.
The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL was produced from May 1955 to February 1963 in a total of 25,881 units.

Vehicle Overview