Mercedes-Benz 190SL Roadster, 1956
Mercedes-Benz 190 SL R121
Mercedes-Benz 190 SL R121•
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Chassis No.: A1210426500203
Auction: Monterey 2019
Auction date: August 17, 2019
Lot No.: F91
$103,400 | Sold
- Exterior: White
- Interior: Blue
- Body: Roadster
- Previously part of the Charlie Thomas Collection
- Older restoration completed in 1997
- 1.9L inline 4-cylinder engine
- Upgraded Weber carburetors
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Double wishbone front suspension
- Swing axle rear suspension
- White with Navy Blue interior
- Bumper guards
This 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190SL Convertible is an older restoration that remains in outstanding condition. Commenced in 1992 and completed in 1997 using mostly factory parts, the car’s renewal also included an upgrade from the stock twin Solex carburetors to higher-volume Weber units that add more horsepower and are factory-endorsed replacements. Introduced in conjunction with the exotic 300SL, the 190SL was a significant entry in Mercedes-Benz’ model range that afforded buyers the pleasure of sharing the 300SL’s cachet while avoiding its exorbitant price tag.
While the 190SL’s wheelbase was identical to that of the 300SL, with its track even wider, and its styling was remarkably similar, the 190SL was based on the unibody structure of the 180 sedan series, a robust platform that maximized the benefits of all-independent suspension. A direct adaptation of the 300SL’s inline-6, the 190SL’s 1.9L 4-cylinder engine was rated at a respectable 110 HP in factory tune and mated to a 4-speed manual transmission.
While the hood, windshield and bumpers could be removed and the doors replaced with cut-down aluminum pieces for competition, the 190SL was in fact a grand tourer rather than an out-and-out sports car, and its intentional similarity to the 300SL certainly contributed to its success. In addition to an overhauled starter and new generator and regulator, it has a new front end with factory shocks, new tires and new factory brakes and power booster. The transmission and radiator have also been serviced. Previously a part of the Charlie Thomas Collection, the car is sharply finished in factory white with a new factory soft top and matching hardtop.
This early production 190SL also boasts a new Navy interior, new glass and windshield, and new or replaced chrome trim.
https://www.mecum.com/lots/380914/1956-mercedes-benz-190sl-roadster/
