Description
Mercedes-Benz 190SL | 1956
Highlights:
– 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine, petrol, manual transmission
– One of only 25,881 W121 190SL examples produced, an early car from June 1956
– Retains its original European specification and German documentation
– Front suspension already fitted with new wishbones and shock absorbers
– Additional spare parts included, stored in the car
The seller offers for sale this 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190SL, powered by a 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine, paired with a manual transmission. Built on 1 June 1956, this is an early example from the first years of series production of the W121, one of only 25,881 190SL cars produced. The car has spent its life in Europe with German documentation throughout and has never been exported to the USA, having passed through only two previous owners in Germany before arriving in Poland.
This is a genuine restoration project, offered with many important components still present. The engine is currently dry and has been standing for a long period; it shows no visible leaks but should be thoroughly inspected and serviced before any attempt is made to start it. The front suspension has already received new wishbones and shock absorbers. The main work still required concerns the bodywork, with the front floor sections on both the driver and passenger sides and the inner sections of the front fenders being the areas most in need of attention, along with associated corrosion repair. The doors, trunk lid, hood, front fenders and hardtop all appear to be in generally good condition, and the engine compartment, trunk, chassis and rear floor are described as relatively good for the car’s age. The interior is largely complete for a restoration project of this kind, though the ignition switch and driveshaft are currently missing; a quantity of additional spare parts is included with the car.
Introduced in 1955 following its debut as a concept at the 1954 New York Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz 190SL was conceived as a more attainable companion to the exotic 300SL, sharing a family resemblance but built on its own dedicated platform with a four-cylinder engine derived from Mercedes-Benz’s contemporary saloon range. Offered as a cabriolet with an optional removable hardtop, the 190SL was designed and positioned as an elegant, comfortable open tourer rather than an out-and-out sports car, and its clean, restrained styling has made it one of the most recognisable Mercedes-Benz shapes of the 1950s.
An early, well-documented European example such as this one, complete with its original history and largely intact componentry, represents a rare opportunity to take on a 190SL restoration with a clear picture of the car’s background from new. Following a proper restoration, the car may potentially be eligible for prestigious historic events such as the Mille Miglia Storica, subject to the applicable eligibility and documentation requirements at the time.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
1 — Poor. Severe damage or mechanical issues; may not be drivable.
Condition of the interior
2 — Fair. Noticeable wear and aging; drives but has issues.
Technical condition
3 — Good. Bodywork or mechanical repairs needed; drives.
Overall condition
2 — Fair. Noticeable wear and aging; drives but has issues.
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.
