Vehicle Description
In the 1950s, Mercedes-Benz was quickly establishing itself as a
dominant force in the automotive market. Mercedes Grand Prix cars
and sports-racing machines were sweeping the racetracks of the
world and the sensational 300SL sports car had set the world on
fire with its exotic spaceframe chassis, race-bred fuel-injected
engine and stunning bodywork. At the opposite end of the spectrum,
their famously robust buses, trucks and taxi cabs were filling the
streets of Europe - and strong sales were filling the coffers back
in Stuttgart. While Mercedes had a fairly well-rounded lineup with
everything from small sedans to luxury limousines and a super car,
their presence in the US was still somewhat tenuous. Americans were
still hesitant to buy German cars, but Max Hoffman, the chief
importer of Mercedes-Benz cars to the all-important US market, knew
just how to get buyers to into his showrooms. When Mr. Hoffman
suggested a stylish, affordable and reliable sports car based on
the standard production W121 sedan at a significantly reduced price
compared to the 300SL, the factory was on board. This new car,
called "190SL" for its 1.9 liter engine and "Sports Leicht"
designation, didn't share the 300SL's exotic tubular space frame
and fuel injection system, instead using a shortened W121-sedan
unibody platform and a twin-carb version of the sedan's overhead
cam four-cylinder engine. It did, however share some of its big
brother's styling cues as well as a similar layout of independent
front suspension with a swing axle out back. With its generous
boot, optional removable hard top and easy-going nature, the 190SL
was less of a hardcore sports car and more of a fine boulevard
cruiser. With the 190SL, Mercedes hit the sweet spot with a
comfortable, fun and practical sporty car with a surplus of style.
After its unveiling at the New York Auto Show in 1954, Robert
Nitske ofSpeed Agedeclared it "... a car suited for all purposes,
the perfect synthesis of touring and sporting characteristics."
That adage holds true for today's enthusiasts who admire the 190SL
for its versatility, quality, and unmistakable style. This gorgeous
1957 190SL roadster is a fully restored and beautifully-presented
example fitted with numerous extra-cost factory options. Finished
in a striking period correct shade of DB534feuerwehrrot(fire-engine
red) over a gray leather interior, this 190SL is an exquisite
example ready for concours or the road. Recently out of a
collection that included numerous important sports cars and three
generations of Mercedes SLs, it has seen limited use since the
exquisite restoration was completed and it remains in remarkably
fresh condition. The body exhibits excellent quality paintwork and
detailing, with straight, properly aligned panels. Even the
body-color wheel wells and correct satin black undercarriage are
exceptionally clean, revealing the level of detail that went into
this restoration. Factory options include front and rear bumper
guards, fog lights, and a locking fuel cap. Correct 13" steel
wheels are dressed with fresh Firestone whitewall tires, and the
original color-keyed hubcaps to complete the simple yet elegant
look. Similar attention to detail was paid to the interior, which
has been fully restored using correct-type gray leather and square
weave carpeting. The seats are excellent, showing little in the way
of use and remaining taut, with supple leather and excellent
quality stitching and fit. Factory correct fluted rubber mats and
textured transmission covering are fitted, important details that
are often overlooked on lesser restorations. Other important
fittings include the correct Plexiglas sun visors (leather trimmed
visors were fitted just a few cars later), glovebox-mounted clock,
an optional side-facing jump seat, original Becker Europa Hi-Fi
radio and a very rare set of matching fitted luggage in the boot.
Inspired by the 300 SL, the 190 SL fascia contains intricate chrome
switchgear and trim, all of which has been restored to the same
high level as the rest of the cabin. The 1.9 liter overhead cam
four-cylinder engine has been highly detailed with correct labels
and decals used throughout the engine bay. The presentation is
excellent, and importantly, the engine retains the original twin
Solex 44 PHH carburetors, which are too often sacrificed for
Webers. In addition, the original airbox and air filter housing
remain in place. The engine runs well and road manners are very
good, with the car feeling ready for enjoyment on the road. While
the big-brother 300SL may have stolen the headlines in the day, it
was the stylish little 190 SL that truly established the template
for all futures SL-series cars with its exceptional build quality,
relaxed performance and timeless good looks. This car's high
quality restoration has been very well preserved, and it presents
in excellent order throughout. Highly optioned, beautifully
presented and ready to enjoy to the fullest, this 190SL is an
exquisite example of Mercedes' landmark junior sports car. For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6351-1957-mercedes-benz-190sl-roadster/