Description
Mercedes Benz 190 SL | 1955
Highlights:
- Early production 190 SL from 1955 with registration in 1956 New York
- Beautiful tobacco leather interior and elegant black exterior
- Mechanically in good condition, no work required
- Retains original Solex carburettor and factory-correct details
- Features desirable small taillights and newly fitted whitewall tyres
The seller offers for sale this 1955 Mercedes Benz 190 SL, an iconic cabriolet embodying the post-war elegance and engineering prowess of Mercedes Benz. Finished in a timeless black exterior, the car showcases a sophisticated look complemented by a tobacco-coloured leather interior, creating an attractive and refined colour combination. Originally registered in 1956 in New York, this 190 SL has since enjoyed a significant restoration and has been with its current owner for approximately 14 years.
The 190 SL is powered by a 1.9-litre, 4-cylinder engine mated to a manual transmission. The original Solex carburettor remains fitted, underlining the authenticity and correct specification of this example. Notably, a supplementary fuel pressure pump for the carburettor has been installed to enhance reliability without sacrificing originality. The car is registered as a three-seater, equipped with a small rear emergency seat—a rare and intriguing feature that adds practical versatility to its otherwise sporty interior layout.
Externally, the car is rated in beautiful condition. The black paintwork was recently professionally treated, leaving it free of scratches, dents, or blemishes. Panels fit well. Chrome details, including the bumpers, grille, and trim, appear well-maintained and lend a brilliant contrast to the bodywork. New whitewall tyres complement the car’s period-correct aesthetic, ensuring it remains visually striking.
Inside, the interior is in a good good condition, presenting cleanly with only minimal signs of use. The tobacco leather upholstery provides a warm and elegant atmosphere. Major components are intact and operational. The dashboard layout is neat, gauges are readable, and the switchgear appears original.
Mechanically, the car is solid. Lights, indicators, and brake lights are in working order, and the vehicle holds a valid inspection.
The Mercedes Benz 190 SL was unveiled to the public at the 1954 New York Auto Show as a more accessible counterpart to the legendary 300 SL. Designed by Karl Wilfert and based on a shortened W121 platform, the 190 SL shared aesthetic cues with its illustrious sibling, offering similar styling at a fraction of the cost. It was aimed at wealthy customers seeking the allure of open-top motoring without the uncompromising performance of the 300 SL.
Production of the 190 SL began in earnest in 1955. The car featured independent suspension, unitary construction for greater rigidity, and a 1.9-litre engine that delivered modest but smooth performance suitable for leisurely touring. Its charming blend of luxury, understated sportiness, and high build quality helped establish Mercedes Benz as a leader in the global luxury car market during the 1950s and 1960s.
Over the years, the 190 SL developed a loyal following, appreciated for its elegant lines, driving comfort, and collectability. It became particularly popular in the American market, where it was associated with sophistication and European glamour. Many period photographs show the 190 SL gracing sunny boulevards or featuring in fashionable seaside scenes—a testament to its aspirational image. Today, the 190 SL is highly sought-after among collectors, admired for its timeless design and status as one of Mercedes Benz’s most beautiful roadsters.
This specific example, with its early production year, New York delivery history, and well-preserved originality, holds significant appeal. The combination of a professionally maintained exterior, a high-quality restoration, and correct mechanical components ensures it remains both an investment-grade classic and an elegant touring companion. For enthusiasts and collectors, the 190 SL offers a delightful way to own a piece of Mercedes Benz heritage, blending visual splendour with the joy of top-down motoring.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Berlin, Germany.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a German registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
