Chassis no. 12104010016207

1,897-cc, 120-hp, overhead camshaft inline four-cylinder engine with twin Solex carburettors, four-speed manual gearbox, independent front suspension with coil springs, swing-axle rear suspension with coil springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 94.5-inches

The Mercedes-Benz 190SL was the vision of Max Hoffman, Mercedes’ representative in the United States. Hoffman understood that while the 300SL Gullwing Coupe might certainly catch American buyers’ attention, it had two drawbacks; it was a coupe, and it was very expensive. Knowing that the American market was ideally suited for convertibles, Hoffman pressured Mercedes-Benz management to build a simpler, less costly open model for the U.S. market, and the result was the Mercedes-Benz 190SL.

The 190SL incorporated many advanced engineering features and was powered by a single overhead camshaft four-cylinder engine. Equipped with four-wheel drum brakes, conventional doors and a simple swing-axle rear suspension, the 190SL was best suited for stylish cruising rather than performance driving. Max Hoffman’s understanding of the American car market was right on target, and more than 26,000 190SL roadsters were produced between 1955 and 1963.

This Mercedes-Benz 190SL Roadster is finished in light blue with a dark blue leather interior, fitted with white-wall radial tires, matching wheel covers and a navy convertible top. Among its many desirable features, the roadster is complete with a proper, original-type Blaupunkt radio, original speaker box, and a VDO clock mounted on the glove box door, as well as front and rear over-riders. Benefitting from a recent restoration and detailing by a Mercedes-Benz professional, the roadster was disassembled, prepared for primer, sealer, paint, base coat, clear coat, color sanded and buffed. Under the hood, the roadster’s engine, components and systems were rebuilt, restored and serviced. A new exhaust system, re-plating of brightwork and new rubber was installed throughout. The engine bay is exceptionally clean and detailed with proper accessories, components and a well-presented undercarriage. This example of a 190SL is attractive overall and ready for spirited top-down touring with its fortunate new owner.