1958 Mercedes 190SL RHD

Vehicle Description

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO OFFER THIS EXCEPTIONALLY RESTORED RIGHT HAND DRIVE MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL

DATE OF MANUFACTURE: 1958 | COLOUR: SILVER GREY METALLIC DB180 | INTERIOR TRIM: BURGUNDY LEATHER | PRICE: SOLD

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 to lighten the 190SL. While the 190SL features a carburetted 1.9 litre in-line four cylinder engine compared to the 300SL’s direct-injected 3 litre 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 carburettors 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 be it with 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 recognisable as a Mercedes, featuring dramatic curves and 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 demeanour 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 and highly collectible due to its ‘Style and Beauty’.

THIS ACTUAL CAR
This Mercedes-Benz 190SL comes out of an enviable and diverse collection, each vehicle passionately chosen by its long term classic and supercar collector. Originally sourced on behalf of its owner back in 2013 by Lux Classics’ Parry Chana from William Loughran, who is equally as fastidious about what he sells.

At the time of purchase, the owner commissioned us to produce a report on the vehicle and any works required. Post run down miles have now been completed and this vehicle will come fully serviced and ready for use.

The datacard indicates it was first delivered to London UK and has had 5 previous owners since, all recorded by DVLA search done back in 2001.

Total body-off restoration with every component seen or unseen restored to high standard by marque specialist around 2007. Well maintained, with post restoration work, service and adjustments done by Parry Chana at a cost of over £18,000, a marque specialist, former technical advisor and concours judge for The Mercedes-Benz Club UK, who also ran the register for these models and has won multiple concours award winning restorations.
Currently running superbly on Makuni carburettors, which can be converted for the purists by LuxClassics back to the original Solex PHH44 carburettors.
Other sensible and reversible upgrades are on offer as options.

Presented in the nicest period Silver Gray Metallic (DB180) exterior paintwork and Dark Red leather interior, complimented by Dark Red Mohair softtop. A numbers matching car (except colour) restored to a very high standard by marque specialist with all outer panels replaced where necessary and every sub-assembly stripped and rebuilt to exacting standards.

A delightful, no longer available Becker Mexico Satellite Navigation Radio is fitted costing now around £3,500 it provides for a period look with the functionality and sound of a modern system.

Supplied with a matching correct small window hard top.

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 and Gullwing coupe.

Vehicle available for viewing in the UK near Stansted Airport on an appointment basis.

WARRANTY & FINANCE AVAILABLE