€85,000

offers 1

1957 Mercedes-Benz 190SL (W121)

Vendor Photos

Highlights

  • Well kept older restoration in great condition 
  • Attractive colour scheme 
  • Long term attentive owner 
  • Demonstrates why these beautiful cars are so loved 

The Appeal 

The W121 190SL was designed as a more accessibly priced alternative to the illustrious Gullwing, one that still channelled the style of its big brother. But, this being a 1950s Mercedes-Benz, there was nothing cut price about this exquisitely engineered roadster. 
The smaller car kicked off a lineage that continues to this day and still holds true to the relaxed, effortlessly stylish appeal of the original. It looked and drove quite unlike anything else on the road, its chic charms beloved of movie stars and the glitterati. That likely explains why most were sold new into the USA. 
This gorgeous 1957 example echoes all those qualities and comes to us from the long term ownership of its enthusiast Danish collector. It is an older restoration but the signs of age are exceptionally light and arguably add to its character. Whether you decide to jump in and head to the coast or add this lovely car to your collection, it looks very tempting.  

History and Paperwork 

  • First registered on 1st July 1957 
  • Imported to Denmark on 15th May 2007 
  • Has remained with its single owner in Denmark ever since 
  • We are told the car is owned by a Danish classic car enthusiast collector 
  • Thoroughly maintained throughout it's previous and current  ownership, as befitting a car of this calibre

The Condition 

  • Looks very attractive in light blue over cream, all of which is in very good condition 
  • Channels the style of the Gullwing including the stabilising strakes over the arches 
  • This appears to be an older restoration sparingly and carefully used since 
  • There are no obvious marks or signs of age around the car except some light stone chips 
  • Very good panel fit reflecting the quality of the restoration work 
  • Matching blue steel wheels with chrome hub caps 
  • The interior tells a similar story with well kept leather, trim and fittings 
  • Chromework in good order around the car showing no visible tarnishing or deterioration 
  • Lights in same condition with clear lenses and good colour to appropriate components 
  • Interior fittings present well and include a period correct radio 
  • Carpets in good order likely retrimmed apparently to a high standard 
  • Lovely white factory Bakelite wheel in good order with smart VDO dials 
  • Tonneau cover matches the interior 
There is no mistaking the svelte style of the 190SL, its long, low and wide styling containing great detailing like the arch strakes and purposeful grille. The light blue and cream colour scheme of this car accents the design particularly well. 
This car appears to be an older restoration but one completed to a very high standard judging by the quality of the paintwork and panel fit. It has clearly been subsequently cared for judging by the exceptionally limited signs of use around the car. Really there are only a few stone chips to the front indicating age.  
Inside the story is the same with a very well trimmed and presented cabin showcasing the quality of engineering and design for which these cars are renowned.   

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The Mechanics 

  • M121 1,897cc 4cyl engine developing 100bhp 
  • 4spd fully synchromesh manual gearbox 
  • It has been in the long term care of its single Danish owner since 2007 
While the Gullwing chased speed records, the 190SL aimed for a more sedate audience, its 100bhp 4cyl engine certainly adequate for the task of cruising and long distance travel for which these relaxing cars are famous.  
Regrettably we know little of the car’s mechanical background but it has been in the hands of the same Danish owner since 2007. Considering the quality of the bodywork and interior, and the photographs of the well presented engine bay, it seems a reasonable assumption that the history reflects what the rest of the car communicates. 

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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1957
  • Make Mercedes
  • Model 190SL
  • Colour Blue
  • Odometer 52,415 Miles
  • Engine size 1897
Listing Details
  • Seller type Trade
  • Town Langeskov
  • Location International
  • Country Denmark

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