Immaculately conceived and effortlessly elegant; the 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL.
Designed out of the desire to create, a smaller and more affordable version of the legendary competition-inspired 300 SL, the 190 SL outgrew its humble beginnings to become of the most aesthetically beautiful cars in existence.
A spectacular roadster in the style of the 300 SL, the 190 SL first reached the market in 1955 and significantly outsold its robust, big brother. The first volume sports car ever produced from Mercedes, the unique, smooth-lined roadster shell was produced from 1955 to 1963, with a total of 25,000 models produced in that time.
As a result of its smaller, sleeker personality, the 190 SL was a more comfortable cruiser to that of the 300 SL, but more profoundly, delivered equally solid performance, boasting a top speed of 110 mph. Alongside its compact power, the 190 SL also contained a wealth of space, with a spacious interior and complimenting large boot, which perfectly displayed the SL’s role as a sports tourer rather than an out-and-out sports car.
This specific 190 SL model pictured, recently went under the gavel at RM Sotheby’s London auction on the 7th September, with its latest owner now the proud proprietor of one of the finest Mercedes’ in existence.
The 190 SL roadster, complete with its original radio and clock, has recently been the subject of a three-year, no expense spared restoration, with most of the work commissioned by Stradolr. Since the comprehensive, high quality restoration, the 190 SL has travelled a little under 800km, which means it still boasts the power and prowess to perform to the best of its abilities.
Complete in its original colour, complimented with the rich red leather interior, this specific 190 SL is one of the most magnificent examples on the road today. For a closer look, check out the picture gallery of the 1961 SL below, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.
