Lot 314: 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

During the Fifties, when Mercedes-Benz were the dominant force in top-level motor sport, the undisputed flagship of the firm's production car range was the stunning 300SL sports car. Highly desirable as it was, it was also financially out of the reach of most enthusiasts. Keen to capitalise on the 300SL's numerous competition successes, and find a foothold in the increasingly lucrative sports car market, Mercedes-Benz introduced its smaller stable mate, the equally beautifully engineered 190SL. Launched at the 1955 Frankfurt Show, the attractive 190SL roadster looked very similar to the 300SL, but thanks to more modest underpinnings it cost a great deal less. Based on the 180 saloon of 1953 - Mercedes-Benz's first car to use a unitary construction body/chassis - the 190SL sported all round coil spring suspension and power assisted drum brakes. Power came from a 1,897cc version of the 180 saloon's four cylinder engine which, via twin Solex carburettors, produced 120bhp at 5,700rpm and 101lb/ft at 3,800rpm. Allied to a four-speed manual gearbox, this endowed the sleek, aerodynamic and comparatively light 190SL with a 115mph top speed and 0-60mph acceleration in a respectable 13.0 seconds.Manufactured in 1956 this early example is described as being in good overall condition throughout. Finished in the classic Mercedes colour of silver with a cream interior, 739 UXA has benefited from much refurbishment in 2003 with marquee specialist Brian Gunney of Cardiff, with an amount of approximately £ 11,000 spent, with copies of the bill to prove. Offered with a current MOT certificate valid until 29th November 2008, this pretty and eminently useable 190 SL is ready to be enjoyed in the coming Spring and Summer months.