1963 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

Sporting elegance, safety and comfort – with these qualities the 190 SL conquered a whole new circle of enthusiastic fans of dynamic driving. Mercedes-Benz unveiled the prototype of the 190 SL (W 121) at the International Motor Sports Show in New York in February 1954, alongside the production version of the 300 SL “Gullwing”. Although the two-seater roadster with folding soft top stirred passions, it was to undergo a further thorough revision by the Mercedes-Benz designers – known at the time as stylists.

Mercedes-Benz's fifties equivalent of the modern SLK, the 190 SL, ably fulfilled the role of a sporting tourer that offered plenty of style, typically first class Teutonic engineering and lively performance, all at a relatively affordable price. Created with the booming American market in mind, the 190 SL was designed around Daimler-Benz' first unitary construction platform and the immensely strong steel backbone chassis was clothed in a mixture of steel and aluminium panels (including the bonnet, boot lid and doors) to keep weight down. The 1897cc four-cylinder engine, also common to the 190 saloons, developed 105 bhp and drove the rear wheels through an all-synchromesh four-speed gearbox. Braking was hydraulically operated via race-derived Al-fin type drums.

One feature that made the 190 SL so popular was the versatility afforded by offering a choice of a folding top or beautifully made hardtop that effectively turned the SL into a snug coupé for the winter months. Inside, the 190 SL one finds an abundance of period detailing, from the padded dashboard and chrome horn ring to lovely touches like the chrome courtesy light. As fifties classic sports cars go, it's easy to make a compelling case for owning a 190 SL. Reliable, versatile, chic and a solid investment, this classic Mercedes-Benz roadster is guaranteed to turn heads and provide a thoroughly rewarding ownership experience.

Presenting today this Mercedes-Benz Roadster from every angle is something special. Original from the day it left Germany, this motor car drives exceptionally well. The motor, the interior and exterior all glow with nostalgia. Being delivered into Australia by York Motors in 1963, the 66,000 miles have all been done on our roads.

In accompaniment with the sale is all of its original Mercedes-Benz service booklets including the rare warranty card, owner's manual, original toolkit and jack. In addition, it has a history file detailing its original sale history, maintenance receipts, letters and receipts for mechanical work completed.

This jaw-droppingly gorgeous 190 SL will provide a lifetime of enjoyment for its next lucky custodian. Whether you are looking to enjoy your favourite scenic roads in open motoring fashion or to compete in prestigious concours events this superb 190 SL will do it all.

A car with this provenance is a one-off prospect to own and with these blue-chip sports classic's achieving sky-high results internationally this truly is a great opportunity to purchase an outstanding example of a charming and iconic Mercedes-Benz Roadster.