1960 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL
Description
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
The Mercedes-Benz SL line made its debut at the International Motor Sports Show in New York in February 1954, featuring the 300 SL and the 190 SL. While the 300 SL was designed for motorsports, the 190 SL targeted the touring market, offering excellent sporting characteristics and a similar aesthetic. Equipped with a 1.9-liter inline-four-cylinder engine and dual carburetors, the 190 SL competed with contemporary sports cars like the Porsche 356. Utilizing innovative unibody construction, it enhanced handling while minimizing production costs. Mercedes-Benz showcased its advanced engineering with features such as independent front suspension, a low-pivot swing axle, and power-ventilated drum brakes—elements also found in the prestigious 300 SL.
Highlights
Retained by the current owner for the previous 24 years
Powered by its original, numbers matching engine as confirmed by the copy of its original Data Card
Mechanical repairs were performed by MBI Motors, Inc. of Portland, Oregon, and Rudi & Company of Victorian, British Columbia, Canada
The body received a complete bare metal refinishing under current ownership by Custom Touch Auto Restorations of Gresham, Oregon
Accompanied by over $60,000 worth of invoices for repairs and restorative work
Finished in Fire Engine Red with a Bamboo leather interior
Powered by a 1.9-liter inline-four with a pair of Weber carburetors and electronic ignition
Equipped with a four-speed manual transmission
Becker Europa radio with additional speakers, discreet glovebox-mounted auxiliary cable, and a trunk-mounted CD changer
Upgraded with heated seats and a Parrot Bluetooth module
14 inch polished aluminum wheels with color-keyed chrome hubcaps
Features
Power-assisted front disc brakes
Rarely seen third auxiliary sideways facing seat
Tan folding convertible soft top
Upgraded “cat ear” headrests
Center console with cupholder
Dual bucket seats
Ivory twin-spoke steering wheel with horn ring
Manual roll-up windows
Dual-zone heater
Dual sun visors
Lockable glove box
Door-mounted map pockets
Chrome bumpers
Three-point seatbelts
Painted dashboard capped with matching leather
Known Imperfections
This 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is presented as a finely restored example and is said to be free from any substantial imperfections
Included
Large window hardtop
Spare wheel and tire
Jack
Copy of its original Data Card
Document folio
Original parts, including the original Becker radio
Two car covers
Ownership History
As reported by the current owner and long-time Mercedes-Benz enthusiast, this 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL was purchased by them in West Hollywood, California, in February 2000. As an avid enthusiast, the car was used at numerous events over the years, including the 50th anniversary of the Mercedes 190 and 300 SL in Australia. The car was previously part of The Boses Collection of Hollywood and earlier by Hollywood Pictures Vehicles.
Additional Notes
A Broad Arrow Auctions Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle.
Contact: Jakob Greisen Phone: 415.480.9028 email: jgreisen@hagerty.com
