Much like its bigger brother, the 300 SL, the 190 SL was the brainchild of U.S. Mercedes-Benz importer Max Hoffman. Hoffman believed that a smaller, less costly roadster that bore a family resemblance to the 300 SL would prove to be just as successful. It was popular with the public at its premier in Hoffman’s adopted hometown at the 1954 New York Auto Show.

At its heart lay a 1.9-liter, inline four-cylinder engine with dual Solex carburetors that was capable of producing 120 horsepower, leading to a 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 cost nearly half as much as a 300 SL Roadster. The car was a huge success, and it remained popular throughout the duration of its nine-year production run.

This particular 1962 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Roadster is believed to have benefitted from a prior restoration years ago. It is finished in white with a black convertible top. The 190 SL is equipped with dual sideview mirrors, and it rides on thin whitewall tires with color-matched factory wheel covers. The interior is trimmed in red leather, with a red dash and door panels and gray carpet. It features a push-button High Fidelity AM/FM radio. It should be noted that the car is missing its glovebox clock. The car is accompanied by owner’s manuals, tool roll, and spare.

The 190 SL Roadster offers most of the thrills of its big brother without the price tag, and it is just as capable of touring as the 300 SL. With a supple ride, comfortable interior, and spacious boot, it is an ideal vehicle for a weekend getaway.