The Mercedes Benz 190SL is today what it was when introduced in 1954 at the New York Motor Show: A less expensive, more practical, and smaller version of the illustrious 300SL. However, it is certainly not lacking in any of its big brothers technical refinements. The 190SL offered plenty of capability and race-bred technology to those enthusiasts considering a sporting roadster. From its production in 1955 through its replacement with the 230SL in 1963, nearly 26,000 would be produced with only a fraction in existence today. The 190SL was also the start of the “options list” for Mercedes-Benz. Never before could a car be tailored like a fine suit the way a 190SL could have been. Everything from elaborate color schemes, tops, accessories, seats, and even a very rare sports-racing option was available. These nimble little two seat roadsters with their iconic, forward styling were the first Mercedes-Benz convertibles to hit home with the U.S. market and started a full-fledged frenzy, and one that has yet to end over 58 years later.

The example on offer here, Chassis # 1210408500801 is presented today as a nicely restored 190SL and adheres to its original build specifications. Thanks to The Mercedes-Benz Classic Center and the accompanying Data Card Copy, we know that this example was delivered exactly as follows:

Chassis number: 121 040 85 00801

Engine number: 121 921 85 00817

Body number: 121 040 85 00302

Ex. factory: March 24, 1958

Soft-top fabric, black

Instruments in English

Sealed beam headlamps

Side view mirror, left

Bumper guards

Made in West Germany plates

SWF wiper system

Early History on this example is believed to be that it was delivered new in Europe before making its way to the US. We know that by the 1970’s and 1980’s it resided in Texas before migrating to Wernersville, PA with the most recent owner in 1987. Here it remained as a weekend driver and well cared for, still retaining its PA Blue Plates. It is obvious through inspection that this example was more recently the recipient of a restoration that reportedly entailed a total strip and repaint along with updated chrome, new interior, detailed engine bay and various other items tended to. Overall the fit an finish is superb with excellent panel fitment, straight down the sides and deep red paint. A very well presented example that would be welcome to any show. The interior was recently completed with all of the correct and proper materials at a cost of over $5,000. One important item that is often overlooked on these cars is there body. Inspecting the chassis and body on this example can further delineate that it has always been a structurally sound example that was never rotten and rough as so many were. Much of this is known thanks to the surviving “coffee brown” style undercarriage paint that the factory applied to these cars before they left. Some of it is still present, a very nice thing, and hardly seen on these cars. It is thin where it should be with spot welds showing in various areas and nothing to conclude that this car has ever been in any accidents or rotten.

Offered with two tops, spare, jack, and manuals, this 190SL is easily of the higher end variety of which collectors continually seek out. As the rising market tide defines these miniature 300SL’s as the next big thing, it is surely the right time to enjoy a fabulous 190SL such as this.