An exceptional opportunity to acquire a truly outstanding 1958 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL, one of just 562 right-hand-drive examples produced, representing roughly 2% of total production. Even more desirable is the inclusion of the rare factory hardtop, which perfectly complements the elegant lines of this timeless Mercedes roadster. Beautifully presented and benefitting from a sympathetic return to its original colour combination, this is a superbly preserved and highly collectible example of one of Mercedes-Benz’s most celebrated post-war sports cars.
This 190 SL presents in exceptional condition following a comprehensive restoration to return the car to its original Silver exterior over Red interior colour scheme. When acquired by the previous owner approximately 4 years ago, the car had been repainted white; however, the decision was made to return it to its correct factory specification at considerable expense. During this process the body was taken back to bare metal, revealing what was described as extraordinary structural condition. Remarkably, we are told that no filler or welding was required, with photographs of the restoration process available showing the integrity of the original structure. The bodyshop responsible for the work reportedly remarked that they had never encountered a car of over sixty years old with such an exceptionally well-preserved body, a condition likely aided by the car’s many years spent in the favourable Australian climate.
The finished result is striking: the paintwork is described as superb, panel gaps are tight and consistent, and the brightwork gleams throughout. Adding further desirability is the presence of the rare and very handsome factory hardtop, a feature seldom found with these cars today and a stand to store the hardtop when it is removed from the vehicle.
Inside, the red interior is believed to be largely original, with the exception of the carpets. If the recorded mileage is accurate, the originality of the interior is entirely plausible. The seats exhibit a light and attractive patina consistent with careful use, and the door cards also appear to be original. Mechanically, the car is fitted with the correct Solex carburettors, ensuring authenticity and proper operation. Overall, the car is presented in a condition that is both highly impressive and wonderfully authentic.
This example is understood to be one of the very few right-hand-drive cars delivered to the UK, making it an especially rare find today. While the car spent a significant portion of its life in Australia, the presence of an MPH speedometer strongly suggests that it was originally UK delivered, as Australian-market cars would typically have been fitted with KM/H instrumentation. The vehicle returned to the United Kingdom in 2014, after which it was placed into storage for several years before being acquired by the previous owner. Following purchase, the car underwent the previously mentioned cosmetic restoration to return it to its original colour scheme.
Importantly, it has been confirmed that the car retains its original engine, numbered R.121.921.8502692, adding significantly to its authenticity and collectability
First unveiled as a concept alongside the legendary 300 SL ‘Gullwing’ at the 1954 New York Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL entered production in 1955 as a more accessible and refined sporting roadster within the Mercedes range. Designed to offer the prestige, craftsmanship and engineering excellence of the 300 SL in a more relaxed and approachable package, the 190 SL quickly became a success. At its heart was a 1.9-litre carburetted inline four-cylinder engine, sharing the same bore and stroke as the 300 SL’s engine architecture. Equipped with twin Solex carburettors, the unit produced just over 100bhp and was paired with a fully synchronised four-speed manual gearbox, delivering power to the rear wheels via a swing axle arrangement.
Although not as outright focused as the 300 SL, the 190 SL adopted similar suspension principles but with a more stable low pivot point rear axle, giving it composed and confidence-inspiring road manners without the more demanding characteristics of the Gullwing. The combination of elegant styling, superb build quality and refined driving experience proved immensely popular, with 25,881 examples produced between 1955 and 1963.
Right-hand-drive 190 SLs are among the rarest variants of this already desirable model and surviving examples in such remarkable condition are seldom offered to market. This 190 SL represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Mercedes-Benz’s most graceful and collectible post-war sports cars. The quality and condition of this motor car must truly be seen to be appreciated and viewing is strongly recommended.
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Zero entry fee period closes 03/04/2026
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