1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL | The Summer Serenade Auction | 18th July

• A low mileage right hand drive example
• Just had over £12,000 spent on it
  
• Still bearing its original number plate of 5 BOF
  
• Only 562 right hand drive examples were manufactured
  

The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL remains one of the most elegant and desirable sporting roadsters of the post-war era. Introduced at the 1954 New York Auto Show and built between 1955 and 1963, it was conceived as a more accessible companion to the iconic 300 SL, offering Mercedes-Benz quality, refinement and style in a sophisticated open-top grand tourer. Based on a shortened W121 platform, the 190 SL is powered by a 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine producing approximately 104bhp. Whilst never intended to rival the outright performance of its six-cylinder stablemate, it offered smooth, dependable motoring, comfortable long-distance touring and assured handling, with a top speed of around 107mph—more than respectable for the period. Much of the 190 SL's enduring appeal lies in its beautifully proportioned styling. The long bonnet, delicate chrome detailing and understated elegance closely echoed the celebrated 300 SL, while the luxuriously appointed interior featured high-quality materials, comprehensive instrumentation and thoughtful details that reflected Mercedes-Benz's reputation for engineering excellence. Equally at home on continental tours or leisurely weekend drives, the 190 SL combined sporting character with genuine everyday usability. Just 25,881 examples were produced, of which only 562 were built in right-hand drive, making these cars particularly sought after today.

This 1959 example, chassis number 121.040-20-014566, is one of those rare right-hand drive cars. Finished in striking Fire Engine Red with a beige hood and complemented by whitewall tyres, it presents exceptionally well and retains its original Surrey registration, '5 BOF', adding considerably to its provenance and charm. The car has clearly benefited from attentive ownership and has recently undergone an extensive programme of mechanical work, with over £12,000 invested. The work includes the fitment of new carburettors, a new fuel pump and a comprehensive engine tune, ensuring it is presented in excellent mechanical order and ready to be enjoyed by its next custodian. Combining rarity, timeless styling, desirable right-hand drive specification and significant recent expenditure, this beautifully presented 190 SL represents an outstanding opportunity to acquire one of Mercedes-Benz's most enduring and charismatic classic roadsters. Consigned by Stewart Banks