Beschreibung:

The first small Mercedes SL model was introduced in 1954, the 190SL. The 190SL was aimed at a similar market as today's SLK model and had pretty styling modeled on the larger 300SL model. The 190SL shared many of its components with the 190 saloon range including the 1897cc straight four engine. Unlike the saloon the 190SL benefited from having twin-carbs which helped produce a top speed of 105mph. Most of the cars built had open roadster bodies although a small number of coupes were also produced. A factory hardtop was offered as an option along with servo brakes (which were standard from 1956) and many other items. In total, over 25,000 of these attractive sportscars were made from 1954 until 1963. The 'SL' tag is supposed to translate as super-light, but despite aluminium doors, bonnet and boot lid, the 190SL is still a heavy vehicle and as such doing anything properly sporting with its 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine is a challenging undertaking. Settle for the fact that it is good, if not exhilarating to drive, with bags of style. In fact it's just the thing for those who can't afford ten times the price for the larger 300SL. Build quality is superb, and this example represents excellent value given the appreciation and respect these cars have always enjoyed. This recently restored example is finished in striking DB050 white with a contrasting red leather interior and has had just four owners from new, the last of which was a company director who cherished the car for over 30 years. The history file contains previous MoT test certificates and tax discs to substantiate the mileage and all servicing and mechanical work was carried out by a Surry based Mercedes-Benz specialist during that time. In 1995, the owner decided to restore the car from bare metal up. The body shell turned out to be in remarkable condition and now looks as good as new again. 1650MF has also been the subject of a thorough mechanical overhaul, with additional new shock absorbers, new bushes, new tyres, new hood and the re-chroming of almost all the original chrome. The steering geometry has also been overhauled and the underside of car has had an epoxy bodyguard applied for added protection from the rigors of modern motoring. Finally the brakes have been overhauled and a full service taken place. The history file contains, as you would expect, a buff log book, V5 registration certificate, various invoices for works undertaken as well as MoT test certificates and tax discs previously mentioned. Good examples of these cars are leading the charge in collectability at the moment and this is a particularly fine example.