Lot details Registration No: 31 BUL Chassis No: 12104010015758 Mot Expiry: May 2013
The 190SL was introduced in 1955 - the year Mercedes swept all before it on the Mille Miglia with the 300SLR. Indeed, the graceful, new two-door, 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. It was coupled to a manual four-speed gearbox operated by a lever between the seats. The suspension comprised double wishbones and coil springs at the front and coil-sprung swing axles at the rear. Steering was by recirculating ball and braking by power-assisted drums all round. The convertible could be ordered with or without removable hard top. There was also the option of a third seat that was placed transversely behind the front ones and big enough to carry an adult. The 190SL continued in production until 1963, when both it and the 300SL were replaced by the first of the 'Pagoda' roofed cars, the 230SL.
Finished in Silver with Blue leather upholstery, this particular right-hand example was treated to a thorough seven-year restoration whilst in the care of its previous keeper. The engine was overhauled and a new clutch added. The suspension and brakes were refurbished and a new floor, exhaust, tyres and wiring loom installed. The body was resprayed, the interior re-upholstered and new carpets and a blue German hood fitted (the car does not possess a hardtop). Some 2,500 miles have been covered since the work was completed with the vendor being responsible for just 500 of those. Road registered as '31 BUL', the Mercedes-Benz is deemed by the seller to be in "excellent overall" condition. Riding on correct type steel wheels, this lovely 190SL is offered for sale with current MOT certificate valid until May 2013.
All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.
You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:
If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035