1956 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

Description

The 190 SL, developed from the 180 model and inspired by the 300 SL's design, was crafted as an elegant two-seated GT rather than a true sports car. Designed by Karl Wilfert and Walter Häcker, its body echoed that of its predecessor, utilizing a shortened framework from the 180 model instead of the costly sophisticated space frame of the 300 SL. It featured a single joint cross shaft axle from the 220 a model while the front suspension was adapted from the 180 sedan. Powered by a new 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine with overhead camshaft, the 190 SL was publicly unveiled alongside the 300 SL at the 1954 International Motor Sports Show in New York, although production was delayed 1955. The final version, showcased at the Geneva Motor Show, was simply stunning.

The 190 SL had a hard act to follow as the 300 SL Gullwing was simply the fastest and best sports car in the world in the 1950s, yet legendary author Griff Borgeson in Sports Car Illustrated magazine reported, “The 190SL is just as exciting, in a quieter, more subtle way, as the 300 SL, and it's my feeling that for most mortals it's actually a more desirable car.”

Highlights

• Powered by the 1.9-liter “M121” inline four-cylinder engine upgraded with Weber carburetors

• Refinished in the original Fire Engine Red (DB-534) with a black folding convertible soft top

• Red leather interior and upholstery

• Four-speed manual transmission

Features

• Becker Mexico radio

• Sony head unit

• Sony Xplod speakers mounted on parcel shelf

• Color-keyed 13 inch steel wheels with chrome hubcaps and beauty rings

• Bridgestone and Milestar whitewall 175/80 tires

Known Imperfections

• Pitting is noted on some bright-finished trim

• Paint chips on driver’s side and passenger side door jams

• The turn signal terminals are inoperable

• Horn is a side button, it is not the horn on the steering wheel

Included

• Manufacturer’s literature

• Boxes of assorted spare parts

Ownership History

The consignor states, “I acquired this 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190SL in 2005 and then refurbished the car which was completed in 2016. The car was originally ordered in Fire Engine Red (534) and was refinished following sheet metal repair during a 2016 refurbishment carried out by Babbsco Collision Repair of Lake Worth, Florida. The car went through a frame off restoration. The only thing not replaced on the body was the hood, trunk and two doors because they are aluminum. The engine was completely rebuilt, boring out the pistons and re-sleeving them. The carburetors were upgraded to Weber. Additional work done in January 2021 included rebuilding the carburetors and replacing the fuel tank, fuel lines, and battery.”

Additional Notes

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida. Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida. For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.