• 1.9 L 4 Cylinder 120 HP Original Engine
• 71,400 Miles at cataloging, Exempt
• 4 Speed Manual Transmission
• Stunning Black Over Camel Tan Color Combo
• Hartz Black Cloth Convertible Top
• Period Corrected Radio
• Rebuilt Carburetors and Ignition
• Realigned Hood
• New Battery & LED Headlights
• All Original Parts Still with Vehicle

1958 Mercedes-Benz 190SL Convertible

Chassis No. 7501628

Like most sports cars of the time, the 190SL had a more basic sedan to thank for its existence. In the case of the 190SL, it was M-B's W120 Series 180 introduced in 1953 and commonly known as the “Ponton” sedan (thanks to the visual and structural character of its body/chassis configuration). Mercedes-Benz followed the Austin-Healey/Triumph TR-series formula by creating a new car using off-the-shelf components it had available from its other car lines.

Known internally as the W121, the 190SL (Sport Light) used a shortened version of the W120 platform topped by the unique roadster body shell. Aluminum doors, hood and trunk lid were employed along the 180's all-independent coil-spring suspension. Power was supplied by a new 105hp 1.9-litre overhead cam four-cylinder engine, initially with twin-Solex carburetors. The transmission was a floor-mounted 4-speed manual and braking was by drums at all four wheels.

From the onset, North America was seen as the main market for the car. The prototype was first displayed at the New York Sports Car Show which opened at the beginning of February 1954. Pilot production began in January 1955 with series production commencing in May of that same year. At $3,840 new it was half the price of its muscular sibling, the 300SL. Production ceased in February 1963 after 25,881 units were produced.

The 190SL available for purchase shows 71,400 miles at the time of cataloging. It is finished in a stunning combination of black with a matching black Haartz top over a contrasting tan leather interior. It is equipped with a period-correct radio and is the beneficiary of a rebuilt carburetor and ignition as well a new battery and LED headlights for improved nighttime safety. Some original parts remain with the vehicle.