Lot 229 - 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Roadster
| Lot Number | 229 |
| Registration | 525 XUW |
| Chassis Number | 121042209500533 |
| Engine Number | 12192120950054 |
| Odometer reading | 4,068 miles |
| Result | Sold - £118,720 |
- Bare metal restoration in 1999
- Detailed history with associated publications
- Complete with rare and original hardtop and larger rear window
There are some cars that epitomise design that transcends normal functionality, with advanced vision that predates wind tunnel technology and that even with modern resources, designers can often only dream of. There are just a handful of which we speak; for example, Jaguar’s E-Type, Aston Martin’s DB4 and the 190 SL belonging to Mercedes-Benz. Contrary to popular belief, both the 190 SL and its bigger brother, the 300 SL, hit the market at about the same time. Whilst there was the obvious power differential, many styling cues could be found on both cars, least of all the same level of detail and craftmanship that defines Mercedes-Benz. The 190 SL also took advantage of the same suspension underpinnings as the 300 SL thus affording it both confident handling and driveability.
This extremely usable example presented here in ‘Fire Engine Red’ with a matching red leather interior and period-correct carpets, appears to have had a full bare-metal restoration in approximately 1999 with photographic evidence to show. Between then and now parts and works have been undertaken from various suppliers including Mercedes-Benz Crystal Palace, SLS Mercedes-Benz in Hamburg (in German naturally) and highly respected SS Motors, Mercedes-Benz specialists in Weybridge. The vendor acquired it through Charles Ironside, a specialist of high standing with an equally high-quality threshold, back in 2010. More general maintenance followed with a major service in 2019 including gearshift cover strip down, propshaft out to trace a leak and heater system overhaul. New carpets were fitted by Surrey Trim in 2020 with a new mohair hood envelope at a cost of £3,120. Still complete with the original Becker Europa wireless and associated paperwork, a light service and fresh MoT test certificate will accompany, and this example also benefits from having the extremely rare and original hardtop with the desirable larger rear window offering elegant motoring to the next fortunate owner.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.