1961 Mercedes-Benz 190SL

Description

The Mercedes‑Benz 190 SL (W121) debuted in May 1955 as a stylish and more attainable counterpart to the iconic 300 SL. The 1961 model retained its elegant styling, crafted by Mercedes designers including Karl Wilfert and Paul Bracq. Under the long hood lay a 1.9L M121 SOHC inline-four engine., delivering roughly 118 horsepower and 105 lb‑ft of torque. With twin-choke Solex carburetors and a four-speed manual transmission, it offered a refined yet spirited driving experience.

This 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190SL is finished in White Gray (158) over red leather with a black convertible top and was acquired by the seller in 2012. Mechanical updates under current ownership include rebuilding the Solex carburetors, replacing engine mounts, a 190SL Club gear-reduction starter, an upgraded sway bar, auxiliary electric fuel pump, and ignition and fuel pump kill switches mounted beneath the dashboard. The underside was stripped of its original undercoating, inspected, and refinished with epoxy paint. The running gear has been powder-coated black, and a suspension overhaul included new shocks, bushings, wheel bearings, and related components.

This 190SL is now offered with a copy of its factory data card, service records under current ownership, some removed factory parts, and a clean California title in the seller's name listing it as a 1963 model.  

Factory Equipment 

• White Gray (158) paint 

• Red leather upholstery 

• 1.9L M121 SOHC inline-four 

• 4-speed manual transmission 

• Fully independent suspension—double wishbone front, swing‑axle rear with coil springs 

• Drum brakes 

• 13” steel wheels 

• VDO instrumentation

• Becker Europa radio 

• Manually wound analog clock 

• Heater with dashboard vents 

• Convertible soft top 

• Factory lap seat belts 

Modifications 

• Upgraded sway bar 

• Installed 190SL Club starter  

• Auxiliary electric fuel pump added  

• Fuel pump and ignition kill switches mounted under dashboard  

• Underside was stripped of undercoating and epoxy coated 

• Running gear has been powder-coated black 

• Aftermarket front bumper 

Servicing & Documentation  

• 2025: Replaced muffler 

• 2022: Rebuilt brakes and engine tune-up performed 

• 2016: Rebuilt Solex carburetors  

• Suspension overhaul including new shocks, bushings, wheel bearings, and related components 

• 185/80R13 Hankook radial tires

Known Imperfections  

• Dent on the left front inner fender 

• Paint chips

• Factory Becker Europa radio does not work 

 Ownership History 

This 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190SL was acquired by the seller in 2012 and has remained registered in California since. It has reportedly received consistent care, with regular servicing and maintenance aimed at preserving its longevity and drivability. Throughout the seller’s ownership, the car has been enjoyed while retaining much of its original character.

This vehicle has a 1961 chassis but is titled as a 1963, with a clean California title in the seller’s name. The full chassis number is 121.040-10-022075, while the titled VIN is listed as 190SL022075. 

 Included Items 

• Chassis-specific factory data card (photo in gallery) 

• Service receipts from current ownership (since 2012)

• Removed factory front bumper and windshield wipers 

• Ignition, glovebox, and door keys 

• Spare wheel/tire and factory jack

Additional Information 

From the seller, “Owning this classic car is an experience in timeless style and pure driving pleasure. Its elegant design draws attention and admiration wherever it goes, especially at local car shows. Beyond its looks, it’s a reliable and enjoyable driver—built for those who love the feel of the open road. Take it through the winding mountain roads, and you’ll remember why driving a true classic is unlike anything else.”