WE ARE DELIGHTED TO OFFER THIS RARE RIGHT HAND DRIVE 1957 MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL. ORIGINAL UK DELIVERED IN UK SPECIFICATION AND COMES OUT OF LONG TERM OWNERSHIP, HAVING HAD A FULL RESTORATION AND RETAINS ITS ORIGINAL SOLEX CARBURETORS AND OTHER ORIGINAL ITEMS. HISTORY DATING BACK TO 1969.
DATE OF MANUFACTURE: 1957 | COLOUR: Black | INTERIOR TRIM: Cream | PRICE: SOLD
MODEL HISTORY & PRODUCTION: THE MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL
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 120 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”.
THIS ACTUAL CAR
Now prepared in house by our dedicated team of professionals, detailing its gleaming black exterior paintwork and cream leather interior, both finished off by the exceptional chrome work.
Original UK delivery and well-documented owners within the file. Original restoration dating back to 1988 with all panel work changed correctly and still solid to this date. Further cosmetic restoration completed in 2016, comprising engine rebuild, Solex carburetors rebuild, component off bare metal respray, re-chrome and retrim of interior leather, carpets and original mohair black soft top with beige inner.
Extensive files with a few restoration invoices, sales invoices and letters of communication. A vehicle that comes highly recommended by our own in-house expert Parry Chana who has worked on this 190SL with his team over the past 20 years.
This vehicle is available for viewing in the UK on an appointment basis and would suit a collector or single owner with whom this vehicle will represent a good acquisition opportunity.
FINANCE AND WARRANTY AVAILABLE ON REQUEST
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