Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

Mercedes Benz 190 SL 1960 Matching Numbers

Mercedes-Benz successfully marketed the 190 SL as a grand touring sports car from 1955 to 1963. It was introduced at the New York Auto Show in 1954. It was a two door, luxury car and the only open SL choice until the Gullwing was replaced by the 300 SL roadster in 1957. It was solidly built in the Mercedes-Benz tradition, with a flawless finish and exquisite detail, and it found favor among the international elite. A string of fashion- and design conscious owners fell in love with the W121 – the list is endless, but to name a few;

Frank Sinatra, Grace Kelly, Kirk Douglas, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Gina Lollobrigida, Prince Rainier, Ingrid Bergmann, Aga Khan, Ringo Starr, Karl Lagerfeld and Patrick Dempsey……

Following the success of the 300 SL Coupe and Roadster, Mercedes-Benz's United States importer, Max Hoffman, suggested that a similarly styled, less costly alternative might be successful. Suggested is perhaps to mild a phrase, as Hoffman apparently personally beat up the Mercedes board until they agreed to have both a production roadgoing Gullwing 300SL, as well as as a smaller and less expensive roadster…. And hey presto! The 190SL was born. The resulting 190 SL proved popular with the public at the 1954 New York International Auto Show, and it remained in strong demand throughout its nine-year production run. The 190 SL was well-suited for touring, as it featured copious luggage space, despite having a convertible top.

The car offered here is a strikingly beautiful example of the spirited convertible. Beautifully finished in its original colors Ivory over a dark red leather interior.

Recently it was restored to near concours standards by Mercedes-Benz specialists. No expense was spared to ensure that this 190 SL achieved a level of excellence rarely seen on these cars. The restorers disassembled it to a bare tub to ensure that every inch of the car was as exquisite as the next. Mechanical components were rebuilt using Mercedes-Benz NOS parts wherever possible and detailed to a high standard. The factory-correct paint is gorgeous, as is the interior, restored in quality hides. From a drivers perspective the attention to detail is obvious, including fully functional instruments. Everything looks appetizing; The dashboard, door cards, carpeting and floor liners complete the impeccably presented and luxurious cockpit.

European specifications, delivered new in Sweden November 1959. Confirmed per the original invoice the car not only has its original color scheme but retains its matching number engine and drive train as well.