1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Convertible

• Dating from the first year of production
• Delivered new to California, USA
• Matching numbers
• Restored in the Netherlands
• Twin Weber carburettors
• Professionally resprayed 2021/2022

Dating from the first year of production and originally finished in Mercedes Red, this matching-numbers 190 SL convertible was despatched to the Mercedes-Benz dealer in Los Angeles, USA on 31st October 1955 and was first owned by Mr Edward Janns, a resident of Los Angeles. Looking at the original service book we can see that the car was serviced at the aforementioned Mercedes-Benz dealership until 3rd October 1960 when it had recorded
42,666 miles (approximately 68,600 kilometres).

In 1988 the Mercedes changed hands, passing to Donald Chalif of Santa Barbara, California, who kept it until 1998. The car was then sold to Mr Patrick Claassens, living in Putte, Netherlands, who undertook a restoration of the motorcar (see related bills and USB stick of restoration photographs on file). Upgraded with twin Weber 40DCOE carburettors, which would be expected to improve its performance considerably, the 190 SL was sold to Cady Cars in Leper, Belgium in 2017 and registered there.

The current vendor purchased the Mercedes at Bonhams' Paris Sale in March 2021 (Lot 118). The car was then taken to renowned classic Mercedes specialist Roger Edwards for inspection/restoration; it was decided that a comprehensive re-spray was required, which was carried out by Nigel Cooper Coachworks at a cost of £31,242 (bill on file). In addition, Roger Edwards fitted a new fuel gauge and added Bluetooth connectivity to the original radio at a cost of £1,069. On completion the SL was shown at the Fête Champêtre & Concours d'Elegance at the Hurlingham Club in West London in June 2022.

It is exceptional to find such an early 190 SL that still retains its original Instruction Manual, Catalog 'A' from 1955 and the supplement to Workshop Manual Type 190. Other documentation includes a FIVA passport, old Belgian Carte Grise, current UK V5C Registration Certificate and the aforementioned bills. Freshly serviced by Roger Edwards Motors (oil change, new ignition points, new axle seals at a cost of £861), the car is described by the vendor as in excellent condition throughout. Eligible for the Mille Miglia, this very pretty Mercedes will appeal to those who desire a practical and economical classic sports car, ideal for Continental touring in style.