1961 MERCEDES-BENZ 190 SL

This 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is a fantastic example of the elegant classic roadster, which benefits from extensive restoration of its bodywork and mechanical components, and now presents in wonderful condition. Under the bonnet is the 1.9-litre ‘M121’ inline-four, which is fed by dual Weber carburettors and drives the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer indicates 32,140 miles, though this is not warranted.

Built in 1961, this US-market 190SL was treated to a body-off restoration before it was imported into the UK and first registered with the DVLA in October 2017. Additional refurbishment work was then carried out by classic car specialist Total Headturners and restoration experts at Wainwright & Son, who brought the car up to the current impressive cosmetic and mechanical condition.

Today, this undeniably beautiful roadster’s body is in great shape. While an issue with the brakes was being tended to, Wainwright & Son found that the car’s prior restoration had failed to rectify some serious rust. To correct this, they worked with Total Headturners to take the car back to bare metal, removing any corrosion and welding in fresh steel, before fully respraying it in an Ivory hue. As a result, the paintwork has a smooth and glossy appearance around the entire vehicle, and all the brightwork and exterior trim is also in excellent order. The black soft top roof fits snugly over the frame below with no rips, tears or scuffs, although there are a couple of repaired pinholes. This 190 SL will also be supplied with a rare colour-matched hardtop. It rides on a set of 13-inch steel wheels with colour-coded hubcaps and polished rims, which are all in fantastic condition, even the spare.

Having been fully re-trimmed as part of the restoration, the interior presents superbly. Red leather covers the seats, dashboard and door cards, and it contrasts beautifully with the body colour. The interior trim is in great shape, and the steering wheel rim is free of any damage, though its original horn button has cracked slightly due to age – adding a dash of patina to the otherwise pristine cabin. All of the car’s switches and electrical items are reported to work without fault, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

During this 190 SL’s UK restoration, all of its mechanical components were carefully inspected for wear and damage, and any sub-standard parts were replaced with original Mercedes-Benz items. In the time since, the car has only been driven over short distances, and it has not required any additional maintenance. Due to its age, this classic Mercedes has not required an MOT test, and all five of its wheels – including the spare – are fitted with brand new white-wall tyres.

The car will be accompanied by a raft of documents which detail its history and restoration, as well as letters from the Mercedes-Benz Club which confirm the car’s authenticity. On delivery, the vendor will also share photographic documentation of the car’s restoration with the buyer via Dropbox – though this can also be appreciated in the photo gallery, as well as rare restoration books and memorabilia.

Described by the vendor as probably one of the best examples in the UK, this Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is an elegant, sophisticated and beautifully finished classic roadster. Subject to a recent and comprehensive restoration, the car is in superb condition, and will make a fine addition to any collection of Mercedes-Benz icons or other classic cars.

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