Following the success of the 300 SL Coupe and Roadster, Mercedes-Benz’s U.S. importer, Max Hoffman, suggested that a similarly styled, less costly alternative might be successful. The resulting car was the 190 SL, and it featured styling that was derived from the gullwing, which many an enthusiast adored but only few could afford. The car proved to be popular with the public at the 1954 New York Auto Show, and it remained in strong demand throughout its nine-year production run.

Hoffman built on the racing-oriented gullwing’s curvaceous shape, allowing both the hardtop coupe and the subsequent roadsters to share a design language that was unique to the Stuttgart automaker in the early 1950s. Both the six-cylinder 300 SL and four-cylinder 190 SL models were marketed, but the less expensive latter version vastly outsold its “big brother,” proving that Hoffman’s knack for success was unparalleled among automobile importers. Both the 190 SL and the 300 SL were nearly identical cosmetically.

The 190 SL was powered by a 1.9-liter inline four-cylinder with twin Solex carburetors, and it boasted 120 horsepower, to reach a top speed of over 105 mph. Unlike the 300 SL, which was born and bred on the race track, the 190 SL was best suited for touring, as it featured copious amounts of luggage space despite having a convertible top. Top-down cruising was effortless, and both the driver and passenger could arrive at their final destination ready for whatever was in store for them after a day-long drive.

This 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is finished in its original colors of Maroon (DB 516) over Ivory, and it has just completed a show-quality restoration by marque specialists. It was purchased by its current custodian from a lady owner who resided in New Jersey and drove and enjoyed the car for many years. After purchase, it was immediately sent to Europe for a full restoration. The car was refinished in its original color combination and converted to full European specification, using correct parts sourced directly from Mercedes-Benz suppliers. It is important to note that this car has been well documented, with a photo album chronicling its full restoration, documents from previous owners, and receipts from its recent restoration. Additionally, it features its original books, tools, jack, and complete luggage set.

That the 190 SL was both stunning to behold and a good deal more practical for real world use helped to seal the deal for well-healed buyers. More than 26,000 examples found owners during the 190 SL’s production run from 1955 to 1963, and they are very well regarded to this day. This particular 190 SL is in excellent condition, as it has only traveled 137 kilometers since the completion of its full European restoration, and it would surely attract lots of attention at any Mercedes-Benz Club events in the future.