DATE OF MANUFACTURE: 1960 | COLOUR: Light Blue (334G) | INTERIOR TRIM: Light Red (1088) | WITHDRAWN
WE ARE DELIGHTED TO OFFER THIS RARE RIGHT HAND DRIVE 1960 MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL. ORIGINAL UK DELIVERED IN UK SPECIFICATION & RESIDED IN DRY STATE OF CALIFORNIA & AUSTRALIA FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS ASSISTING IN PRESERVING ITS CONDITION BEFORE ITS RETURN TO UK IN 2013.
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 MOTOR VEHICLE
Extensive restoration work was completed in USA & numerous receipts are available in the history file. Conversion to Weber carburettors & final commission carried out by Lux Classics a year ago making for a lovely driving 190SL better than when these left the factory. For the purists & for a better driving experience we can convert back to the original Solex carburettors.
Presented in the nicest period Mercedes-Benz light blue paint scheme (code: 334G) with light red interior (code: 1088) & complimented by a navy blue mohair soft top. Original matching numbers car including paint & presented with the correct period Becker Europa chrome faced radio & history.
This vehicle is available for viewing at our showroom in the UK on an appointment basis & would suit a collector or owner with whom this vehicle will represent a good acquisition opportunity.
FINANCE & WARRANTY AVAILABLE ON REQUEST.
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