If Mercedes-Benz ever built a competitor to the Chevrolet Corvette or Jaguar XK120, it was the lively little 190SL. Steel monocoque construction with aluminum hood, doors, and rear decklid gave it a unique feeling of quality, the trademark Mercedes “hewn from granite” sensation. Its rivals, even German ones such as a Porsche 356, were lacking in that regard. That aided in driver confidence and driving pleasure, further abetted by wonderful steering and gear changes. It may not have been as swift as its big brother 300SL, but anyone who has driven both knows which is actually more fun on a daily basis. It will happily cruise at the speed limit on the fastest highways in North America.

A brand-new, cast-iron 1,897-cubic centimeter overhead valve engine with alloy heads appeared in the 190SL at its 1954 New York Auto Show debut. While this is not a high-powered automobile, it is surprisingly able to cope with modern traffic, and the engine is both frugal and highly robust. A nearly flat torque curve from 2,400 rpm to redline is seen on dynamometer results for 190SLs. This pulling power makes the car far more flexible and enjoyable than specifications at first indicate. Still, it is not an engine meant to lug, but it is one where peak horsepower comes at 5,700 rpm, just before the 6,000 rpm redline. Mercedes-Benz 190SLs are generally bought for their looks, but once an owner experiences the feel of driving and the surprising ripping snarl of the engine as it winds out on a back road, they seldom let them go.

Mercedes sold over 25,000 190SLs in the United States over their 1955–1963 run, but only 1,727 examples in their first year of production. This car was delivered on August 25, 1955, in Graphite Grey (DB 190), with a Light Grey (DB708) convertible top, and a Red Leather (DB 1079) interior. A previous owner purchased this car in 1961 with 39,360 miles. In 2003, it was acquired by the former owner with only 39,602 miles on it. In January of 2004, this 190SL was subject to a complete body-off restoration by Sports Leicht Restorations. It has been completely returned to its original specifications. Additionally, it is equipped with “his and hers” luggage fitted both to the trunk and the cabin parcel shelf. In June 2004, the extensive restoration paid off with a Best of Show win at the International 190SL Convention in Sonoma, California; an impressive award for an equally impressive example.

What was once a second choice is now sought-after in its own right, and those who would have purchased a restored car 10 years ago will only find a project car today. As with all restorations of Mercedes-Benzes from this era, the work is seldom simple and never cheap. A properly restored example such as this, in stunning original colors with two sets of matching fitted luggage, is unlikely to become available again in the near future.