Rare RHD 1960 Mercedes‑Benz 190 SL — one of just 562 right‑hand‑drive examples
Original “matching numbers” engine
Nut‑and‑bolt restoration between 2019–2023
Finished in period-correct Anthracite Grey (DB190) over Oxblood Red leather (1079)

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION

This finely presented 1960 Mercedes‑Benz 190 SL is a rare right‑hand‑drive example.

The original chassis tag records Ivory (DB608) as the factory delivery colour and the body number 0048 is plainly visible; the engine number 017293 sits within 100 of the chassis sequence and is therefore regarded as matching — a desirable point of provenance.

Purchased for restoration and entrusted to marque specialists Desmond J Smail to oversee, the car underwent a comprehensive overhaul between 2019 and 2023.

Works were carried out to the highest standards and fully recorded; the car was sympathetically finished in the factory‑correct Anthracite Grey (DB190) with Oxblood Red leather (1079), and a Becker Le Mans Bluetooth radio was fitted for period appearance with modern functionality.

Final sign‑off and shake‑down were completed by Desmond J Smail in 2023 following careful fettling and servicing; documented invoices show total restoration expenditure was in excess of £150,000. The result is a beautifully turned‑out 190 SL that presents and drives to a high standard, and would be well suited to touring, show display and long‑term enjoyment.

This restored RHD 1960 example, with its documented provenance and meticulous Desmond J Smail managed restoration, represents a compelling opportunity to own a quintessential Mercedes roadster presented to a very high standard.

Please note that the personalised registration shown in the photographs is not included with the sale of the car; we will retain it upon sale and revert the car to its previous registration.

MODEL HISTORY

The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL was introduced in 1955 and quickly established itself as the elegant, more accessible companion to the 300 SL — offering classic Mercedes build quality, graceful coachwork and a reliable four‑cylinder engine in a compact, stylish roadster body. Production ran to 1963, during which various refinements were made.

The 190 SL’s combination of handsome lines, comfortable touring manners and the Mercedes hallmark of engineering robustness, have resulted in sustained strong collector interest. Right‑hand‑drive cars are noticeably scarcer, and those with close engine/chassis continuity command a premium.

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