1962 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Convertible with Hardtop
Registration no. KFF 243
Chassis no. 12104210025171

'It proved to be fast and tireless, exhilarating to drive and was probably created with long distance, comfortable travel in mind...' The Autocar on the Mercedes-Benz 190SL, 10th January 1956.

As economic conditions improved after WW2 it became inevitable that Mercedes-Benz would return to the racetrack. The result was the superb 300 Super Leicht series of sports-racing cars that proved so successful in international competition. In 1954 the road-going 300SL 'Gullwing' coupé was introduced, causing a sensation and setting new standards for high performance sports cars. The following year saw the 300SL joined by a smaller-engined roadster with broadly similar styling - the 190SL. It shared the same wheelbase as its big sister and was powered by a 1,897cc overhead-camshaft four - the first such engine ever to feature in a Mercedes-Benz. The new model combined 100mph-plus performance with economical fuel consumption in the region of 25-30 miles per gallon. It featured a four-speed, all-synchromesh gearbox, servo-assisted hydraulic drum brakes and rode on fully independent suspension. This advance suspension set-up meant that the 190SL was more comfortable than any contemporary British sports car and unlike the 180 saloon on which its mechanical components were based, it had a floor-mounted gear change. The model was available as a two-seater convertible roadster or coupé and production continued until 1963.

This left-hand drive 190 SL was imported from Texas in 1994 by the current owner with all UK taxes paid. Special factory options on this car include the rear jump seat, front bumper over-riders and a hardtop, the latter complete with a stand for use when removed.

Finished in special-order light green paint (716 Grey Beige) with contrasting beige leather upholstery and matching mohair hood, this exceptional example has been the subject of a full restoration. Undertaken during 1994/1995, this included a full bare-metal re-spray, complete interior re-trim and a full mechanical overhaul by the late Roger Edwards. Electronic power steering and seat belts were added so that the owner's wife would be able to drive the car more easily (the power assistance can be switched off if required). The car has been meticulously maintained and kept garaged inside a Carcoon within a temperature controlled environment. It remains in magnificent condition, having covered fewer than 500 miles in the 20 years since restoration, and is currently MoT'd. A total of 4,383 miles is currently displayed on the odometer. Offered with V5 registration document.