The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is a two-door grand touring convertible with a removable hardtop that 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 straight-four SOHC engine that 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.

This absolutely superb example is presented in metallic grey (silver) with a new red leather interior. This right hand drive example has recently been the subject of a full rebuild by marque specialist Desmond Smail, where circa £140,000 was spent which has resulted in this car being presented in near concours condition. The engine and gearbox have also been rebuilt and starts immediately on the button with no hesitation. The body was bare metal resprayed in the current superb colour of metallic grey (silver) and the chrome has been restored throughout. In short, one could say that this is a 'new' 190 SL as it certainly looks and feels like it, with its beautiful Oxblood hood to match! This is one of the best examples of this truly iconic and special model from the German manufacturer which has been restored by one of most respected specialists in the business. Consigned by James Good

Lot details
Year: 1962
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 190 SL
Registration: CSV 882
Chassis No: 17238
Engine No: 17293
Mileage: 12,310

* Recent full rebuild by Desmond Smail
* Engine and gearbox rebuilt
* Superb condition - near concours