To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' The Petersen Automotive
Museum Auction event, 8 December 2018.
Estimate:
$200,000 - $240,000
- Presented in stunning Tunis Beige over black leather
- Restored in Germany by marque experts SL-Classics
- Retains its original engine
- Includes both hard and soft tops, as well as matching fitted
luggage
After witnessing the success of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL coupe and
roadster, foreign car importer and dealer Max Hoffman, the man who
gave birth to the model, believed that a somewhat smaller and less
expensive car, but that bore similar styling to the 300 SL, could
also be commercially successful. Top brass at Mercedes-Benz did not
take much convincing of this, and the resulting model was dubbed
the 190 SL. Introduced at the 1954 New York Auto Show, it proved to
be a popular and profitable model for the marque and remained in
production for nine years.
At its heart was a 1.9-liter, inline four-cylinder engine topped
with twin Solex carburetors, making the engine capable of producing
120 hp and providing a top speed of over 105 mph. Intended for
grand touring, the 190 SL featured copious amounts of luggage space
and offered customers the choice of having either a hardtop,
convertible soft top, or both, making it ideal for year-round
use.
This example was subject to a concours-quality restoration by the
noted SL specialists at SL-Classics in D�ren, Germany. No expense
was spared to return the car to virtually as-new condition.
Particular emphasis was placed upon maintaining as many of the
car's original components as possible. Tunis Beige (DB 46), a
seldom seen and very tasteful yet understated color, was chosen for
the car's paintwork, while the interior was trimmed in black
leather. Importantly, this 190 SL features both a black canvas soft
top and removable factory hardtop in black, as well as an
additional set of black hub caps. Furthermore, a complete tool kit,
owner's manual, and fitted luggage trimmed in matching black
leather accompany the car.
Treasured by many for their good looks, usability, and reliability,
the 190 SL has been a well sought-after collector car for years and
provides looks similar to its big brother without the similar
purchase price. This example is presented today in stunning
condition following thorough restoration by marque experts and
would be a joy to drive and enjoy.To view this car and others
currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/ca18.