The 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190SL roadster featured here was originally
finished in the stunning color combination of Silver Gray Metallic
(180) over a red leather interior. Per the accompanying Data Card
information from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center this 190SL was
delivered on July 30th 1959 to Mr. Samuel C. Davis Jr. of St.
Louis. Davis was a prominent figure in St. Louis society. His
father, Samuel C. Davis, founded one the largest dry goods
distributors in the Midwest. Additionally, Davis Jr. was the Great
Grandson of Oliver D. Filley, St. Louis City Mayor from 1858 -
1861. The car reputedly remained in the hands of the Davis family
until the fall of 1972 when it was acquired by its long-term
owner.
The Mercedes-Benz was recently exhumed from a garage in St. Louis,
where it had reputedly sat since the mid 1970's. The Missouri
inspection sticker on the windshield is stamped April 1975;
evidence of just how long this Mercedes-Benz has been sitting idle!
The long-term owner passed away from illness complications in March
2023. As per his wishes the 190SL was bequeathed to his nephew who
as a child always "admired [his] uncle's old Mercedes in the
garage." As to why the car was parked in the 1970's, the nephew is
unsure, however he does remember hearing his uncle tell stories
about driving the car across the US. A life-long bachelor, the
long-term owner was an avid world traveler, amateur photographer
and gardener who enjoyed both sky and scuba diving! While the word
eccentric comes to mind, it's clear that the 190SL was part of an
adventurous time in the late-owner's life. On one occasion the
190SL was reputedly driven to the Florida Keys and on a deserted
long stretch of highway the Mercedes-Benz was "maxed out" with the
speedometer needle buried.
Today this Mercedes-Benz presents as a largely complete project. It
would be an ideal candidate for a concours level restoration.
Evidence of some minor, period customization is observed today
including a Sears AM Radio while a Standard FM receiver is "hidden"
in the glove box. Front and rear bumpers and bumper brackets were
deleted, but still accompany the car today while a set of velocity
stacks are bolted affront the twin Solex carburetors. A mere 31,974
miles are displayed on the odometer; a number which likely
represents the car's total mileage accrued from new. Furthermore,
careful inspection of the vehicle reveals that engine serial number
121921109502166 and gearbox serial number 9502130 are original to
the car, per the accompanying data card copies. IT'S ALIVE! is
honored to be entrusted with such a cherished family heirloom as we
have been tasked to find the individual or organization who is
willing to give this once-forgotten classic Mercedes-Benz a new
lease on life. If you are said individual or organization, then
give us a call at 314-710-6600 or email us at
[email protected].
