1962 Mercedes-Benz 190SL

Vehicle Description

DATE OF MANUFACTURE: 1962 | COLOUR: Blue Gray DB166 | INTERIOR TRIM: Mid-Red Leather | PRICE: SOLD MORE REQUIRED URGENTLY

A WELL PRESERVED ORIGINAL BARN FIND MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL MANUFACTURED IN 1962. ORIGINAL MERCEDES-BENZ PARIS, FRANCE DELIVERY IN FRENCH LEFT HAND DRIVE SPECIFICATION TO ITS FIRST OWNER AND RETAINED IN THE SAME FAMILY FOR MUCH OF ITS 56 YEARS

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 & 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 axles. The 190SL implemented the same suspension systems as the 300SL, all it be a 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, bumpers 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 MOTOR VEHICLE

This late 1962 production is one of 264 190SL's built to end of production which completed in this same year. It retains much of the original features of a late production 190SL with the elegant large window hard top & some of the desirable late model features. In lovely period solid Blue Gray & Mid-Red Leather interior so right in that era of a two-seater roadster.

This vehicle still retains its totally original factory paint (no evidence of even a localised paint or re-paint), all it be faded & aged, complimented by Mid-Red Leather providing a superior finish than the standard MB. The original leather interior is in a well preserved condition with no cracks or tears & retains a lovely patina & can be, should any perspective owner wish, preserve rather than restore preserving 56 years of originality. In fact this car retains many of the original features down to hose clamps & body panels which are not normally found in such restoration projects. Providing a lovely period look & patina so right for the 190SL which is not often seen. The bodywork is so well preserved & retains its original solid floors which would be a delight to restore & provides an opportunity for someone wishing to retain as much as possible factory originality. Other points of originality include, factory rubber mats including in the boot floor, original carpets with its fine weave pattern, original Solex Carburettors & the lovely 7 day hand wind Kienzle glove box clock.

Sold new to its first owner & registered in Paris in 1962. This owner retained it for some eight years before it being registered within the same family from 1970 up to a few years ago when our client purchased it. This period assisted in preserving its condition as we believe it was last used on the road in 1977 indicated by the French tax disk displayed on the windscreen. It still retains its first registration number despite passing through two generations of his family. We understand that the recorded mileage of 73,000 kms (56k miles) to be original when it was laid up & forgotten until it was re-discovered in 2015 & the family's decision was made to sell. Currently un-registered in the UK & comes with a French title.

This offers a great opportunity to restore & preserve an iconic automotive history following a planned strip to original factory specification. We have extensive experience with these 190SL's & can provide any prospective purchaser the support to complete a full component off restoration or preservation as appropriate.

This vehicle is available for viewing in the UK on an appointment basis & would suit a collector with whom this vehicle will represent a good acquisition opportunity.

VEHICLE SOLD AS A RESTORATION PROJECT WHICH WE CAN ASSIST IN FULL RESTORATION OR PRESERVATION