1960 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Roadster

• Delivered new to the USA
• Formerly part of a large collection in Kuwait
• Restored between 2013 and 2018
• Part or a large UK-based private collection since 2018
• Accompanied by a nice history file

For those insufficiently wealthy to afford its hyper-expensive race-bred sports car - the 300 SL - Mercedes-Benz offered the less exotic but no less refined 190 SL. Based on the 180 saloon, whose all-independently-suspended running gear it used, the 190 SL entered production in January 1955. Mounted on a detachable subframe along with the four-speed manual gearbox, front suspension and steering, the power unit was a 1,897cc overhead-camshaft four - the first such engine ever to feature in a Mercedes-Benz. Breathing through twin Solex downdraft carburettors, the M121 unit produced 105bhp, an output sufficient to propel the 190 SL to 60mph in 13 seconds and to a top speed of 107mph. The fact that the 190 SL's ride was more boulevard than sporting, and that many contemporary sports cars could out-perform it while costing a good deal less, did nothing to deter sales. Its superior refinement and ease of use made model a huge hit in the USA, where many of the slightly fewer than 26,000 produced between 1955 and 1963 found homes. The 190 SL remains a sought-after car to this day, and one that unquestionably cuts a fine figure.

This 190 SL roadster was originally supplied to the USA where it lived for the majority of its life (Copy Fahrzeug-Daten on file). The car was delivered with the following specifications/options: Becker stereo; offside mirror; sun visors; paint preservation; and license plate arrangement. In 2010 the car was purchased by a collector from Kuwait, who embarked upon an extensive restoration with no expense spared, which was carried out by his in-house team of specialists between 2013 and 2018. All the car's original main components were retained during the rebuild; it is 'matching numbers' throughout and has been refinished in factory-original Ivory White (see photographic record on file). The Mercedes was then sold to another collector who owns a large collection in the UK where the car has resided for the last five years.

On file is a favourable inspection report (perusal recommended) compiled by classic and historic car specialists Webster & Lancaster and dated 10th May 2023, which states: "The vehicle appears to have received a comprehensive restoration to a good standard in recent years with the likelihood of being used sparingly since." As with most cars that have been restored and then subject to minimal use, there are few relatively minor shortcomings listed in their report, which AutoRevive have said could be put right at a cost of only a few thousand pounds. Our vendor advises us that the car has just undergone a major service here in the UK with a marque specialist; it is said to run and drive beautifully and is reportedly ready to be enjoyed by the next custodian.