Mercedes-Benz W121 190 SL Roadster

The Mercedes-Benz W121 190 SL Roadster

In February 1954, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the prototype of the 190 SL (W 121) at the International Motor Sports Show in New York together with the production version of the legendary "gullwing" 300 SL. The two-seater roadster with retractable soft top immediately aroused enthusiasm, but was thoroughly reworked by the Mercedes designers - still called stylists at the time. In March 1955, just over a year after its premiere in New York, the production version of the 190 SL celebrated its grand premiere at the Geneva Motor Show. Like its big brother, the spectacular 300 SL "Gullwing", the 190 SL quickly became one of the most sought-after dream cars of its time. Although it was less powerful, it was no less fascinating and brought the SL legend to life for a wider customer base: a total of 25,881 examples of the 190 SL were produced by 1963. The 190 SL presented an independent design that clearly set it apart from its predecessor, the W 121 pontoon saloon. The two-door roadster body ensured a dynamic yet elegant appearance. The striking front end with the characteristic grille and round headlights characterised the appearance of the car and became an unmistakable Mercedes-Benz trademark. In addition to its timeless design, the 190 SL also impressed with its innovative technology. Powered by a 1.9-litre in-line four-cylinder engine with 105 hp, the sports car reached a top speed of up to 170 km/h, which was remarkable for the time. An innovative chassis with independent suspension on all wheels guaranteed driving pleasure and safety, even on winding country roads. The precise steering and powerful brakes ensured agile and confident handling, making the 190 SL a popular vehicle for sporty drivers. From 1957, a removable plastic hardtop could be ordered as an option, giving the roadster greater weather resistance and utility value. Its popularity extended beyond the borders of Europe and was also very well received in the USA. Celebrity owners of the 190 SL included Elvis Presley, Roy Rogers and Gina Lollobrigida. The sports car became a coveted object in the world of stars and starlets and contributed to the cult status of the 190 SL. Today, the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is considered one of the most important icons in automotive history. It has left a lasting mark on the automotive world and secured its place in automotive history. The 190 SL embodied the perfect combination of sportiness, elegance and comfort like almost no other vehicle of its time and inspired drivers all over the world.

The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Roadster of the W121 model series offered here was completed at the Sindelfingen plant in June 1958 and registered for the first time the following month, on 1 July 1958. It was not until May 2011 that it was first registered in Germany, more precisely in Bad Hersfeld. Just two weeks after registration, the new owner had a Classic Data valuation report drawn up, which is available to us. After 4 years, the 190 SL changed hands again. The current owner acquired the car on 2 March 2015 from Eberlein Automobile in Kassel, a dealer known beyond the borders of the country. After the car had been stored in the owner's private collection for the following 5 years, he decided to have it registered in his name on 18 February 2020. In the course of this, the Höflacher company, which specialises in Mercedes-Benz classics, was commissioned to restore the car to top technical condition after the long period of storage. This involved overhauling the rear axle and steering, readjusting and measuring the steering, carrying out a major service including a fluid change, replacing the brake pads, installing the completely overhauled Solex carburettors, insulating the exhaust manifold and carrying out various other jobs. In particular, the carburettor problems known from 190 SL roadsters were successfully remedied by the extensive work. All invoices for this work are available. Today, the vehicle is in top optical and technical condition. In combination with the timeless classic colour scheme, it is an enrichment for every Mercedes collector. Our sales staff will be happy to answer any detailed questions you may have at any time. Please note that vehicle viewings are only possible by prior appointment.