Lot 205: 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

During the Fifties, when Mercedes-Benz was the dominant force in top-level motor sport, the undisputed flagship of the firm's production car range was the stunning 300 SL sports car. Highly desirable as it was, it was also financially out of the reach of most enthusiasts. Keen to capitalise on the 300 SL'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 190 SL. Launched at the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show, the attractive 190 SL 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 190 SL 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 190 SL with a 115mph top speed and 0-60mph acceleration in a respectable 13.0 seconds. Offered in the highly attractive colour scheme of red with a tan interior the vendor advises that the car was restored in the 2002 and 2003and is conifdently described as being in good condition inside and out and in all respects. One of the most popular, reliable and usable of all psot war classic convertibles this delightful example - so similar in many visual details to it's supercar cousin - the 300SL will provide the new owner with much open top motoring pleasure in the warn months to come.