1961 MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL ROADSTER
1961 MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL ROADSTER

Details
1961 MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL ROADSTER

Registration No. T.B.A
Chassis No. 12104220021169
Engine No. 12192120021234
Silver with blue leather interior.

Engine: four-cylinder, single overhead camshaft, 1,897cc, 105bhp at 5,700rpm; Gearbox: four speed manual; Brakes: four wheel drum; Suspension: front independent, rear, single joint swing axle, coil springs. Right-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-litre power unit running with little stress.

All this gave the car good performance with a top speed of 110mph and 0 to 60mph 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 commendable and the ride is good even by modern standards. This example has been in its present ownership for fifteen years, where it has formed part of a private collection. The car was fully restored by marque exponent Roger Edwards and is therefore in exemplary condition. The restoration included both an engine rebuild as well as bodywork. The Mercedes has actually been little used since and the recorded mileage of 3800 is believed to be correct from new. Due to the retention of a private number plate, the new registration number has yet to be allocated. In our opinion this example is well above the average and will be a fine addition to any collection.

Sale room notice
Please note that the registration number is BSV 481.

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