1960 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

Very original & pretty car

It's not every day that a car like this graces our showroom. Over the years, we've been fortunate to handle some exceptional Mercedes-Benz 190 SLs, but this one ranks right up there with the best of them. You know the feeling when everything just clicks into place—the body lines, the history, the condition—rare to find such an original example with this level of care.

The 190 SL, of course, owes much of its pedigree to the iconic 300 SL “Gullwing,” which was Mercedes-Benz's post-war masterpiece. The 190 SL was a more approachable, open-top alternative, designed for those who wanted a taste of luxury and performance without going to racing extremes. And yet, despite its more casual nature, it quickly found a fan base that included celebrities like Grace Kelly, Alfred Hitchcock, and even John Surtees. This car was the epitome of style and class in the 1960s—cruising the Riviera or darting through city streets with the top down was about as glamorous as it got.

The 190 SL features a 1.9-liter inline-4 engine, producing just over 100 horsepower. Mated to a four-speed manual gearbox that offers a smooth and effortless driving experience. The suspension setup is independent at the front, which provides remarkable comfort for a car of its time, while the rear swing axle ensures you've got that classic Mercedes-Benz balance and poise.

The other day, we took this 190 SL for a drive to the park for our photoshoot. The weather was perfect—cool, crisp autumn air. The moment I pressed the starter the engine purred to life. As I shifted through the gears, the car glided effortlessly, the suspension soaking up every imperfection on the road. You could feel the German craftsmanship and engineering in every corner, every straight. It's a car that makes you smile, whether you're driving her or simply admiring her from across the park.

Our 1960 model is something special. She has been impeccably maintained over the years. The paintwork is stunning, still in her original colour, and the interior exudes that classic charm that only time and care can achieve. This is not a car that has been over-restored or tampered with—it's as authentic as they come, and that's a big part of its appeal. 

So aside from its incredible condition and its rich history, it's a car that perfectly balances elegance and fun. A pleasure to drive, and I genuinely believe it's one of those rare examples that will keep making its owner happy for years to come. This one's not just a pretty face—she's a real “humdinger”.

If you've been on the hunt for a 190 SL that ticks all the right boxes, this is it.