Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 121.040.10.024875
Engine No. 121.928.10.002810
Body No. A121.040.10.00912
The Mercedes-Benz SL line debuted at the 1954 New York
International Motor Sports Show, with the 300 SL and 190 SL
unveiled together. While the 300 SL reflected the brand's
motorsport pedigree, the 190 SL offered elegant styling in a
refined touring car with sporting character, complemented by an
optional hardtop for all-weather comfort. Powered by a 1.9-liter
inline-four with dual carburetors, it competed with the Porsche 356
while employing innovative unibody construction for excellent
handling. The 190 SL shared advanced engineering with the 300 SL,
including independent front suspension, a low-pivot swing axle, and
power-ventilated drum brakes.
On 25 June 1962, this 190 SL completed production as one of the few
examples finished in Black (DB 040) from new, complemented by Red
leather upholstery. Designated as a coupe by its 121.040 chassis
number prefix, the Data Card shows it was delivered with its
removable hard top installed and a Black convertible soft top
accompanying the car. Additionally, the Data Card reveals the car
was built to U.S.-market specification with a Becker Europa
radio.
For more than four decades, from 1981 until 2024, this 190 SL
resided with a single enthusiastic owner in Eastern Pennsylvania.
Under their stewardship, the car was restored by Robert Platz and
his expert team at Precision Autoworks of Camden, New Jersey,
shortly after purchase. Work completed by Platz included
refinishing the bodywork as originally specified in Black while the
interior was retrimmed to its current presentation with
correct-grained Natural Leather (1068).
In preparation for sale, in 2025 the Roadster received an
inspection and scheduled service by DriverSource of Houston, Texas,
which included changing fluids, filters, brake cylinders, hoses,
and fitting the car with a new set of Michelin ZX whitewall tires.
Additionally, the original Becker radio was restored by Becker
Autosound. The inspection revealed that this 190 SL retains its
original date stamped wheels including the spare. The car is
furnished with a tool kit, owner's manuals, jack and tire iron.
The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is both an exceptional touring car and a
Roadster of timeless elegance. As presented, this delightful
factory black Roadster benefits from its earlier restoration by
Precision Autoworks, which its long-term owner lovingly preserved.
Offered with a removable hardtop and a beige convertible soft top
with matching boot cover, this wonderful 190 SL is sure to turn
heads, no matter the weather, in pure elegance and style.
