Mercedes-Benz W121 190 SL completely restored and expert opinion note 2 (1958)

Vehicle description

Model history:

With the 190 SL of the W 121 BII model series, Mercedes-Benz improved the reputation of the brand with the three-pointed star in the USA many times over: the 190 SL offered from 1955 met the car taste of wealthy Americans with almost seismographic sensitivity. The fact that it could not be a powerful sports car with its 105 hp four-cylinder engine did not stand in the way of its success. Much more important was the shape that incorporated design elements of the 300 SL, but without making the small SL a copy of the super sports car. After all, the 190 SL remained in the Mercedes-Benz range until 1963, with a total of almost 26,000 units of this roadster produced.

General information about the vehicle:

The Mercedes-Benz released for auction here is a 190 SL from the year of construction 1958, which was first registered for traffic in Germany and, according to the seller, has a total of 2 owners. Matching numbers are given on this roadster with the VIN 8500257, in addition, the 190 SL has a valid TÜV until July 2024 and the car is already in possession of an H-approval. A history is not available. It is worth mentioning a present valuation report on this Mercedes-Benz.

Exterior colour/varnish/body:

In terms of body technology, the 190 SL was modelled on the 300 SL gullwing, and a 190 SL also adopted some stylistic elements such as the front mask, the bumpers, the front headlights and parts of the bonnet. All chrome elements on the vehicle are in brilliant condition and the black soft top is in undamaged condition. According to the seller, only minimal traces of use can be found on the exterior and minor scratches are on the hood - whether the red body of the Mercedes-Benz has ever been repainted, the current owner can not say, but he states that this roadster is accident-free.

Exterior rims/brakes/chassis:

The tyres have 70-90% of their new condition, in the area of the brake system, the seller estimates the condition at 70-90%. The rims are original steel rims with chrome hubcaps, which also absorb the paint color of the body. Modifications to the chassis can apparently not be identified.

Interior:

The interior of this Mercedes-Benz 190 SL features black leather seats, an ivory-coloured 2-spoke steering wheel and a body-coloured dashboard with black leather trim. Obviously, no damage can be removed from the entire interior and missing parts are also not visible. According to the seller, the unlocking and locking of the soft top works perfectly and all other displays and controls in the interior can be attested to a perfect function. For a detailed overview of the interior and its features, we refer to the many other photos.

Mileage

2 large, chrome-bordered round instruments are located directly in the driver's field of vision: The speedometer houses the speedometer, on which a mileage of 1,083 kilometers can be read. A checkbook for the Mercedes-Benz is no longer available, according to the seller, the total mileage of the roadster is no longer comprehensible.

Engine

The OHC four-cylinder engine of this 190 SL is supplied by 2 carburettors: 105 hp is delivered by the 1.9-litre four-cylinder, the individual gears are engaged via a 4-speed manual transmission. In August 2022, this Mercedes-Benz underwent a final service.

Subsoil:

After consultation with the seller, he states that there are no inconsistencies on the underside of the car that could tarnish the good overall condition of the Mercedes-Benz. This red Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is designed for people who want to glide through the area in a relaxed and enjoyable way and take advantage of the elegant and solid way of transport according to Mercedes-Benz quality with an open top.

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