First shown at the 1954 New York International Auto Show alongside the 300 SL Gullwing, the 190 SL was the brainchild of US Mercedes-Benz importer Max Hoffman. Similar in appearance to the 300, yet less complex and costly, the 190 SL offered a sporting character without racing pretensions. Using proven mechanical components from the Ponton line, the 190 SL was powered by a SOHC 1.9-liter four-cylinder with twin Solex carburetors. Internally designated W121, the production-ready 190 SL debuted at Geneva in March 1955. By the time production concluded in 1963, a total of 25,881 examples had been built.

This lovely 190 SL is a US-specification example and, while its earliest history is unknown, in 1992, it was owned by Harold and Dolores Taylor of Des Moines, Iowa, according to an old title on file. Circa 2017, the Mercedes-Benz was being restored in Italy by Bioinnovation SRL of Parma when it was sold to Florida-based collector Leo Schigiel. After the restoration was completed, the 190 SL returned to the US and joined Schigiel’s large collection of European sports cars and motorcycles in Miami.

The stunning presentation of this car is bolstered by its beautiful color combination of Anthracite Metallic over a tan leather interior. Fitted luggage is found in the trunk and also on the rear parcel shelf, secured by matching leather straps. Ready for the multitude of events for which it is eligible, this beautiful 190 SL is a terrific example of one of Mercedes-Benz’s most distinctive models.