120 bhp, 1,897 cc overhead-camshaft inline four-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, swing axle rear suspension with coil springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 2,400 mm (94.5")

• An original LHD example supplied new to the USA

• Restored and maintained without regard to cost

• Desirable colour combination

Introduced at the 1954 New York Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL was conceived by U.S. importer Max Hoffmann as a more affordable and equally stylish companion model to the 300SL. Writing of their experiences, Autocar’s editors remarked, “It proved to be fast and tireless, exhilarating to drive, and was obviously created with long distance, comfortable travel in mind.”

This left-hand drive example was originally supplied to the USA new in 1961. It was imported to the UK in 1990 and registered to Anthony Stephenson of Darlington, and on 13 December, 1991, it was sold with 14,516 indicated miles to Francesco Rea of Bishop Auckland. In Mr. Rea’s ownership, the car was sparingly used and accumulated only an additional 512 miles, as supported by MoT certificates and maintenance receipts.

In September 2006, the 190SL was sold by Mr. Rea to the current owner, who shipped the car to the south of France, where the car was restored over a five-year period at great expense, with mechanical work performed by Mercedes Vence and a complete refinish, including the replacement of any corroded metal by Carrosserie de la Madonette in Nice. The interior was completely re-trimmed in red leather with new carpeting by Willy Sellerie, also of Nice, and the brightwork was restored. Additional mechanical work was completed by Team VB 14 of Monaco, and the car passed its “Controle Technique” inspection prior to being duly road-registered on 5 July of this year. The fastidious owner then sent the car to John Haynes of Worthing, UK for further work, including additional brightwork restoration, a set of new whitewall tyres and a gearbox repair.

Restored and maintained regardless of cost, this handsomely presented 190SL Roadster is sure to attract significant interest among Mercedes-Benz connoisseurs. With excellent driving dynamics and superb future investment potential, now is the time to acquire such a stylish Mercedes-Benz roadster.