1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL - Lot 50

Lot n° 50
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Estimation :
80000 - 100000 EUR
Result with fees
Result : 89 096EUR
1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL - Lot 50
1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Chassis number 5501011 • Legendary model • Attractive configuration • Rare 1955 version: 1 of 1,727 produced • Matching Numbers • Excellent condition Unveiled as a prototype at the New York International Auto Show—largely at the urging of American importer Max Hoffman—the 190 SL went into production in May 1955 and remained in the lineup until 1963. A total of 25,881 units were assembled, a significant portion of which was destined for the American market. With its design inspired by the 300 SL but adapted for more everyday driving, the 190 SL holds a special place in the history of Mercedes-Benz. Its meticulous construction, the gradual evolution of its mechanical components over the course of its production run, and the good availability of parts continue to contribute to its great appeal among collectors today. The car presented here is a first-series 190 SL, which rolled off the assembly line in 1955 and was delivered new to the U.S. market. It retains its sought-after early-production features, notably its 300 SL-style seats, its distinctive dashboard, its small taillights, and its small door handles. An expert appraisal report dating from 2007 details the major restoration undertaken on this vehicle. The mechanical components were rebuilt in the United States in the early 2000s. The work included a complete overhaul of the engine and its accessories, the carburetors, the exhaust system, the suspension, and the braking system, as well as the replacement of the electrical system. The bodywork, for its part, underwent extensive restoration after the shell was stripped down to the bare metal. Although we do not have the invoices for this work, the car’s visual condition and overall presentation speak for themselves. A second expert report, prepared in 2014 by Henri Pluton, confirms the presence of the original engine (matching numbers). The expert notes, however, a two-digit discrepancy between the stamped number (55-01009) and the chassis plate (55-01011); a common and well-documented anomaly in these early years of production. More recently, in 2023, the original Solex carburetors were fully overhauled by the specialist Niemöller at a cost of 3,690 euros. However, since the car has seen little use since then, a mechanical overhaul will be required before it can be driven on the road. In addition, the steering box will need to be adjusted. This 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL represents a rare opportunity to acquire an early-production model that is particularly pure and faithful to the spirit of the original design. Combining the timeless elegance of its “baby SL” silhouette with a high-quality vintage restoration, this icon of 1950s lifestyle is a wonderful project. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Chassis Number: 5501011 • Legendary model • Attractive specification • Rare 1955 version: 1 of only 1,727 produced • Matching Numbers • Beautifully preserved condition • Unveiled as a prototype at the New York International Auto Show—largely at the instigation of American importer Max Hoffman—the 190 SL entered production in May 1955 and remained in the catalog until 1963. In total, 25,881 units were assembled, with a significant portion destined for the U.S. market. With a design inspired by the 300 SL but adapted for more practical road use, the 190 SL holds a special place in Mercedes-Benz history. Its exceptional build quality, the progressive evolution of its mechanical components throughout its production run, and the excellent availability of parts continue to make it highly desirable among collectors today. The example presented here is a first-series 190 SL, which left the factory in 1955 and was delivered new to the American market. It retains its highly sought-after early-production features, including 300 SL-style seats, its characteristic dashboard, small taillights, and small door handles. An appraisal report from 2007 details a major restoration undertaken on this vehicle. The mechanical components were rebuilt in the United States in the early 2000s. The work included a complete overhaul of the engine and its accessories, the carburetors, the exhaust system, the running gear, and the braking system, as well as the replacement of the electrical wiring harness. The bodywork also underwent a major restoration after being stripped down to the bare shell. Although invoices for this work are not available, the car’s visual appearance and overall condition clearly attest to it. A second appraisal report, conducted in 2014 by Henri Pluton, confirms the presence of the original engine (matching numbers). The expert noted, however, a two-digit discrepancy between the stamped chassis number (55-01009) and the chassis plate (55-01011)—a common and well-documented anomaly
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