As the company’s first volume sports car, the 190 SL shared the 120-horsepower, 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine and running gear from the Type 180 sedan, while also offering similar styling to its big brother, the legendary 300 SL. The resemblance to the 300 SL coupe and roadster was certainly intentional, but at just $3,840 new in 1955, the 190 SL was half the price. Mercedes-Benz followed the Austin-Healey/Triumph TR-series formula of the era by creating a new car using off-the-shelf components it had available from its other car lines. The 190 SL was produced from 1955 through 1963, with Mercedes-Benz building 25,881 units. It could reach a top speed of 110 mph, with a 0–60 mph time of 13.3 seconds, while also offering up to 26 mpg, the perfect combination for effortless touring.

The pristine 190 SL offered here has seen very little use in the past few years since undergoing a comprehensive frame-off restoration performed by marque specialists at Titan Restoration. It is finished in a factory-correct shade of Light Metallic Blue (DB 356) and wears an attractive Parchment leather interior. Furthermore, the car retains its rare original and functional wind-up clock, as well as a set of tools and books that are included with the sale.

As a matching-numbers example with few miles since its restoration, this car has spent its entire life in California with only three private owners. Beautifully restored to the highest quality, it is a fine example for extensive touring as well as Mercedes-Benz club events.