Lot 166 - 1962 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL
| Lot Number | 166 |
| Registration | 495 XVP |
| Chassis Number | 1210401002322 |
| Engine Number | TBC |
| Odometer reading | 33,564 miles |
| Result | Sold - £101,920 |
- Restored over a six-year period totalling more than £85,000
- Exceptional condition throughout
- Retains original Solex carburettors
The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is a two-door grand touring convertible which was produced between May 1955 and February 1963 with a prototype first shown at the 1954 New York Motor Show. It was sold alongside the faster, more expensive Mercedes-Benz 300 SL which it closely resembled both in its styling, engineering, detailing and fully independent suspension. However, the 190 SL did not use the 300 SL's purpose-built tubular spaceframe W198 platform but was built on a shortened monocoque R121 unit. The 190 SL was powered by a new 1.9 litre inline-four SOHC engine which developed 104bhp and was later also used in the W120, 180 and W121, 190 models. The four-cylinder engine block of the 190 SL was based on the six-cylinder engine of the 300 SL. The car was available either as a soft top convertible or with a removable hardtop.
This example, like so many others, was originally exported to the United States, our vendor purchased the car in 2015 and imported it into the UK, first registering it in 2016. The car was bought with a project in mind and our vendor set about a total restoration from top to bottom, the decision was made to paint the car in a stunning Metallic Grey with a chocolate brown soft top and tobacco coloured interior, courtesy of Alridge trimming. The colours chosen give the car a very classy appearance and the interior, paintwork and chromework have been finished to an exemplary standard throughout, the car must be seen to be fully appreciated. The original Solex carburettors have been retained and have been rebuilt and tuned. The engine and gearbox have been fully rebuilt and the engine runs beautifully, we are told the car is a joy to drive but it has only covered a small handful of miles since completion. The whole restoration took around six years in total, the result is a 190 SL which is in exceptional condition and would be at home in any collection of significant cars. It is hard to find a 190 SL which has been restored properly to this standard, on offer with a very reasonable estimate, this is sure to be one of the finest examples available and viewing is highly encouraged.
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.