1962 MERCEDES 190 SL

Lot 46
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Estimation :
75000 - 85000 EUR
1962 MERCEDES 190 SL
Presented in 1954 in New York, the Mercedes 190 SL was designed to be a small 300 SL. Derived from the mythical model with the star, this small Roadster was designed in collaboration with Max Hoffman, the Mercedes Benz importer in the United States. This Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Roadster is equipped with a 4-cylinder in-line engine, of 1897 cm3 developing 105 CV thanks to two carburetors. The engine is coupled to a 4 speed manual gearbox. The chassis is based on an independent front suspension and rear swing axles with coil springs and 4 hydraulically operated drum brakes. Together with the 300 SL, the two cars were the first in the SL range, which stands for "Sport Leicht", and although the 190 was fitted with aluminium doors, it still weighed over 1100 kg, a very Germanic concept of lightness compared to the British roadsters that proliferated in the mid 1950s. It was the work of in-house designers Karl Wilfert and Walter Hackert, who were commissioned to create a car that resembled the 300SL but was 30 cm smaller. It was derived from the platform chassis of the modest 180 saloon, which was shortened by 25 cm. The body is made of steel, but the four doors, the boot and the bonnet are made of aluminium. The 190 SL ended its career with a total production of 25,881 units. The 190 SL's sensual shape, build quality and solidity are its strong points. It is an extremely robust car, aimed at a clientele more interested in an elegant car than a performance car. In the Mercedes Benz tradition, this car is very well built and suitable for everyday use. The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL presented here has benefited from an old restoration, some body work will be required. Aesthetically, a nice red paint covers the bodywork where the chrome is placed. The sand-coloured leather interior has a nice patina and brings a lot of elegance to this convertible. The soft top will need a little touching up in order to drive in all seasons. Mechanically, the 4 cylinders engine behaves well, Weber carburetors have replaced the original ones in order to bring a better reliability as well as a slight gain of power. This is a rare and mythical cabriolet that is just waiting for you to take it for a spin. It is a competition weapon and will not fail to turn heads as you drive by.
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