Restoration pass

Project of restoration
Purchase and assessment of initial condition
Start of dismantling. Detailed determination of defects
Dismantling the running gear
Transportation of the body to the surface treatment
List of ordered parts
Assembly process

Body type                     Roadster with soft top roof
Year of production          1956
VIN                               121042-6503825
Production period          1955 ... 1963
Total produced               25,881 units (coupés + roadsters)
Engine displacement       1897 см3
Capacity                         105 HP (DIN) @ 5700 min-1
Compression                   8.5:1
Carburetor                      2 x SOLEX 44PHH
Top speed                       172 km/hr
Dry weight                      1160 kg

The 190SL was created as a democratic version of the legendary sports 300SL Gullwing - retaining the visual similarity and running gear components, but using the special R121 platform which was built on the base of the mass-produced W120/121, as well as a new 4-cylinder engine M121B. As an extra fitting, it was possible to order a third seat positioned sideways. Only two versions were produced - a roadster with a soft top roof (042) and a coupé with a removable hard top and soft top roof (040).
Before 1957 when FIA changed its regulations, the 190SL sports version (factory supplied competition package) competed in GT class motor races with great success.

This 1956 edition cabriolet was spotted in Belgium at the start of 2006. Formerly, the car was painted in an elegant light beige colour with contrasting red leather upholstery and seats. An inspection of photos on the Internet led us to conclude that the car is currently in a visually poor condition and that little had remained of its original beauty. The paintwork appeared to be significantly damaged and mechanical defects to the body and bumpers were also evident.

Unfortunately, known and credible data about the car's history are only available in regard to its time in the possession of the most recent owner which from 15 April 2005 has been:

Bodine Auto Sales
2112 Mission Cir
Guntersville, AL 35976
256-505-0577
USA