Much like its 300 SL bigger brother, the 190 SL was the brainchild of Mercedes-Benz American importer Max Hoffman. Hoffman believed that a smaller, less costly roadster bearing a family resemblance to the more exotic 300 SL would prove to be just as successful. Given the car’s popularity upon debuting at the 1954 New York Auto Show and subsequent success throughout its nine-year production run, Hoffman was right.

At its heart was a 1.9-liter inline-four-cylinder engine with dual Solex carburetors rated to produce 120 horsepower and good for a reported top speed of over 105 mph. The 190 SL was an effortless cruiser, and its trunk could easily accommodate a weekend’s worth of luggage for two. Priced at $3,840 when new, it costs nearly half as much as a 300 SL Roadster.

This US-market 190 SL from the 1960 model year is offered today from 37 years of much-enjoyed ownership by the consignor. Always maintained by the consignor’s private team of mechanics and craftsmen, this treasured 190 SL has lived a charmed life highlighted by regular trouble-free drives between New York City and the Hamptons.

Although its early history remains unrecorded, the consignor reports that they found this 190 SL locally during 1988, and while cosmetically and structurally sound at this time of purchase, it had not been enjoyed for some time and required some mechanical recommissioning. Duly sorted and buffed up, the car has since been a summertime mainstay in their garage; over the years any major mechanical or cosmetic refurbishments would be executed during the winters—so as to not interrupt the car’s long-honored driving schedule.

The period-correct combination of Silver Metallic paint and sumptuous red leather upholstery nicely complements its dark blue cloth convertible top. The interior is an equally resplendent affair featuring jewel-like brightwork, correct German square weave carpeting, a Becker Europa radio, a heater box, and a full complement of factory-correct VDO instrumentation.

Treasured by many enthusiasts for its good looks, usability, and reliability, the 190 SL has been a highly sought-after collector car for years, with instantly familiar styling and a driving experience pleasurable for extended touring. This example, handsomely restored by skilled craftsmen, has been well-kept in the present collection, and has much to recommend it to the connoisseur of these charming, eternally popular Mercedes-Benz roadsters.