Mercedes-Benz 190SL (1957)

First unveiled as a mere prototype at the 1954 New York Motor Show with, the production car was unveiled just one year later in 1955 at the International Motor Show in Geneva. The Mercedes 190SL was conceived and developed with the idea being to combine the iconic looks, style and presence of the Mercedes 300SL to create a more gentle GT cruiser. Production spanned almost a decade, lasting until February 1963.

This model was in fact completely different from the 300SL and was based on a shortened version of the 180 Saloon. The engine was a four cylinder twin-carburettor version of the standard 1.9 litre unit. A conventional floor-mounted gear shift was fitted to the 190SL. It had all round independent suspension and was designed initially for the American market, proving to be very popular. In 1955, the car received a subtle facelift and was fitted with servo-assisted brakes in 1956.

This example was completed in Western Germany in 1957 and delivered new to New York, first being registered on the 12th of November 1957 and was finished in the classic combination of White DB50 over a Black Leather interior trim. The car remained in the USA for a number of years before being returned to Europe and being left dormant for a number of years. In 2015 it was chosen for a restoration project and shortly after sent to the leading marque specialists SL-Classics located in Germany.

During this comprehensive restoration each and every component was carefully stripped and rebuilt including the engine. The body was taken back to bare metal before being painted to Concours standard in the original shade of Weiss (White) DB50. The interior was expertly re-upholstered into an alternative and more exciting Ox Blood Red Hide interior with a matching canvas soft top. A most comprehensive photographic record of each stage of the restoration accompanies the cars history file.

In March 2016 DK Engineering sourced this exceptional motor vehicle on behalf of a collector looking to purchase only the best to pair with his 300SL. After its purchase it was shipped to DK Engineering where it received a most thorough inspection as well as a small amount of maintenance work to ensure it was ready for UK roads. During this time it received full UK registration. It has since remained in this meticulous collector's private collection and has received routine maintenance by ourselves.

Today this Concours 190SL has covered under 200 Miles since its most comprehensive restoration. It is accompanied by a matching Ox Blood Red leather three piece fitted luggage set, jack and tool kit, owner's manual, history file and a comprehensive photographic record of its restoration. This exceptional SL is UK road registered and ready to be used and enjoyed immediately.