Description
Mercedes-Benz 190SL | 1960
Highlights:
-
- Extensively restored
- Custom metallic blue paint paired with a camel leather interior
- Mechanically overhauled
- Matching numbers
- 1.9 Liter 4-cylinder engine
The seller offers for sale a 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190SL, a classic cabriolet that has undergone a frame-off restoration. Lots of components of this vehicle has been renewed or restored, and the result is a polished example with attention to originality and quality. This 190SL is finished in a non-period but tastefully selected metallic blue, which the seller describes as striking and well-suited to the car’s elegant lines.
The restoration was completed approximately three years ago. Since then, the car has been used sparingly, always stored in a garage under a cover. The paintwork retains a deep shine with almost no visible imperfections, consistent with its careful use and recent restoration timeline. The underside of the car is described as extensively restored and remains in very good condition.
The interior was redone during the restoration in a camel color scheme that contrasts beautifully with the blue exterior. All upholstery, carpets, and trim were renewed, and the result is a clean, well-matched interior that remains free from visible wear. The dashboard features functional original gauges, and the radio is also operational.
Mechanically, the 1897 cc inline-four engine and manual transmission have been overhauled and are in very good working condition. After three years of light use, the car recently received a valve adjustment and general tuning, making it ready for driving or touring. The gearbox shifts smoothly with no issuesand the car starts easily.
There is no reported accident damage or rust, and the car retains its original chassis, engine, and body identifiers. It currently has valid Spanish registration and inspection, and the seller is offering a 10-day storage period following the auction.
The Mercedes-Benz 190SL debuted in 1955 as a more accessible, stylish counterpart to the famed 300SL. Designed with touring in mind, the 190SL offered open-top driving with graceful lines, paired with proven Mercedes engineering. It quickly gained a reputation as a luxury sports cruiser and became a favourite of celebrities and connoisseurs of European design.
Built on a shortened sedan platform, the 190SL featured independent suspension, a smooth four-speed manual gearbox, and dual carburetors (later replaced in some examples with a single carb setup for easier maintenance). With its distinctive pontoon-style body and luxury appointments, the 190SL was one of the most refined cabriolets of its era.
Production ran until 1963, and the model became increasingly collectible over the decades—especially fully restored examples with matching numbers and tasteful modifications. Today, it holds strong appeal among collectors seeking an open-top classic with timeless style, and values have risen consistently, particularly for rust-free, well-maintained examples.
This particular 190SL offers an attractive combination of restored aesthetics, mechanical readiness, and tasteful custom touches. With no immediate servicing needs and a high degree of originality, it is ready for show, touring, or weekend enjoyment.
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 Madrid, Spain.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has Spanish 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.