Lot 38: 1961 MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL ROADSTER

Red with light grey interior and black top

Engine: four cylinder, single overhead camshaft, 1,897cc, 105bhp at 5,700rpm; Gearbox: four speed manual; Suspension: front, independent, rear, single joint swing axle, coil springs; Brakes: four wheel drum. Left hand drive.

Although it tended to be overshadowed by the larger 300SL, the 190SL was a high quality sports tourer noted for its refinement and elegance. When introduced in February 1954 it was thought to be a little slow, but by 1958 the engine output had been raised to 105bhp, commendable for a 2 liter power unit running with little stress. All this gave the car good performance with a top speed of 110mph and 0 to 60 in 13.3 seconds. Contemporary road testers found third gear a useful overtaking ratio taking the 190SL to over 75mph. Performance was described as sparkling with a reassuring level of safety. Fuel consumption of 20 to 26mpg with a 14.3 gallon tank gave the car a cruising range of around 350 miles, emphasizing its essentially touring character. Strictly a two-seater, the 190 has good luggage capacity. The car's stability is reassuring and the ride is good even by modern standards.

The 1961 model offered here was fully restored many years ago and shows as a presentable example. The interior had been entirely retrimmed with light grey leather upholstery, while the leather dash has all the correct instrumentation and a period radio. Grey carpets complete the cabin and the brightwork had previously been replated and polished. The car is set off by white band tires.

WITHOUT RESERVE