1962 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

Registration No: 289 XVS
Chassis No: 12104210024613
MOT: June 2026

• Subject to a previous cosmetic overhaul into the current colour scheme of Primrose Yellow over a Black Leather interior
• Described by the vendor as being in 'very good' mechanical order and running the original Solex PHH carburettors
• Supplied with a hardtop painted in contrasting Black

The 190SL was introduced in 1955 – the year Mercedes swept all before it on the Mille Miglia with the 300SLR. Indeed, the graceful convertible grand tourer was sold alongside the road-going version of the SLR – the 300SL – whose styling it strongly resembled. In fact, the underpinnings of the two cars were quite different and, while the 300SL had a purpose-built tubular spaceframe (W198), its smaller sibling was built on a shortened version of the ‘Ponton’ saloon (W121) platform, which was of monocoque construction. The 190SL also boasted an all-new engine – an over-square SOHC straight-four unit of 1897cc that produced some 120bhp, which was sufficient to propel the car to a maximum speed of 112mph. The engine was coupled to a manual four-speed gearbox. The suspension comprised double wishbones and coil springs at the front and a coil-sprung swing axle at the rear. Steering was by recirculating ball and braking by power-assisted drums all round. Built to the highest standards and among the quickest comparable cars of the time, the 190SL featured a well-appointed cockpit, notable comfort for its occupants and relatively generous luggage space. The 190SL continued in production until 1963, when both it and the 300SL were replaced by the 230SL (W113). By this time, 25,881 190SLs had been produced.

Our LHD example was originally finished in White over a Black interior, but has been repainted at some stage in the delicate Primrose it now wears – an uncommon but extremely attractive hue for the model, which complements the upholstery very well. It was supplied new to France but spent 40 years in the USA before the vendor imported it into Britain and registered it in late 2021. We are pleased to note that the car is supplied with an original hardtop in contrasting Black, and the soft-top has recently been renewed, so this one really should be ideal for use in all weathers and all seasons. The interior appears to have been refurbished at some previous date, and it looks to have been done with due regard for the car’s originality, even down to the historically appropriate loop-pile carpet.

Since importing it, the vendor has clearly taken good care of the Mercedes and he started to MOT it in July, 2024. It was most recently tested on 11th June this year, and on both occasions it passed with no advisories. Evidently the recipient of an older renovation, we believe this 190SL still presents very much to factory specification, albeit with one or two subtle upgrades such as the fitment of a high-torque starter motor.

In the vendor’s words, the paint is ‘good’ and the interior and mechanicals are ‘very good’. We have seen the car running and driving well and, as far as appearances go, it is highly presentable, useable and show-worthy, with a very light patina across the interior. Overall, this Mercedes represents an ideal car for somebody seeking a comfortable and well-mannered classic which could be used all year round.

PLEASE NOTE: This lot has been subjected to a fresh MOT by the vendor valid until June 2026

For more information, please contact:
Lucas Gomersall
lucas.gomersall@handh.co.uk
07484 082430