1960 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Description
1960 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL
1,897cc SOHC 4-Cylinder EngineTwo Weber DCOE-40 Side Draft Carburetors105bhp at 5,700rpm4-Speed Manual TransmissionIndependent Front SuspensionLive Rear Axle4-Wheel Drum Brakes
History of the 190SL
In 1954, Mercedes displayed the concept of a beautiful two-seat roadster at the New York Auto show alongside the record-breaking 300SL 'Gullwing'. This car came to market in 1955 as the 190SL, a more approachable, less intense sports car compared to the “Gullwing”.
The 190SL and 300SL share basic engine design, suspension and level of detail and craftsmanship that defines Mercedes-Benz. The power-plant was paired with a fully synchronized 4-speed transmission that sent power to the rear swing axles. The 190SL implemented the same suspension systems as the 300SL, affording it confident handling and drivability.
The 190SL is immediately recognizable as a Mercedes, featuring dramatic curves and the restrained use of bright work that defined this era of Mercedes. Many styling cues are borrowed from the 300SL, notably the massive three-pointed star in the grille as well as the 'eyebrows' over the wheels.
The impeccable quality and attractive styling made the 190SL a massive success; selling over 25,000 units before production ceased in 1963. Many of these models were delivered to the United States, where its driving demeanor and elegant styling were highly valued. The 190SL is an important part of the culture of small roadsters in the 1950s, as it demonstrated how luxurious the platform could be.
:
The motorcar offered is a 1960 model which was purchased as a project in 1979 by a German machinist residing in Canada. This car was imported into the States last year with just over 85,000 miles on the clock.
The former owner restored the car in several stages over the years. Significant rust repair was completed including new floors and OEM replacement fenders and nose panel. There are no rust issues.
Originally white gray with red leather seats, it is now a striking red over black leather with new red carpets. The repaint was completed about ten years ago. Some crazing has developed mostly on the aluminum doors, hood and trunk lid with some slight paint blistering on the doors.
After 36 years of slumber, the car now runs, shifts and drives very powerfully. It starts instantly and runs smoothly and quietly. It is powered by a correct replacement engine with new intake and exhaust manifold gaskets, two freshly rebuilt Weber DCOE-40 carburetors with K&N filters and mounts. The original engine is included with the car but it requires a rebuild. The original Solex carbs, air cleaner and air log are included too. The original transmission shifts smoothly and quietly as it should.
The recent scope of work included re-commissioning the mechanicals. All the systems have now been sorted. The brake cylinders and brake booster were rebuilt so the car now stops as well as it goes. The distributor was rebuilt; a modern high performance starter was installed as well as an efficient spin on oil filter and adapter. New motor mounts, battery, cables, and wheel bearings and other new parts were fitted. The radiator and fuel tank were tested and cleaned. All work including engine bay detailing was completed with appropriate attention to detail and correctness.
The panel fit is very good. All the trim is complete and in very nice condition, including all four hubcaps and fender accents. The front and rear bumpers and over riders have been replaced by new stainless steel units. The Goodrich wide whitewall tires are practically new and are fitted to the correct wheels with chrome trim rings and hubcaps painted in the proper color.
The interior has been restored and presents nicely. Factory seats were reupholstered in the correct style in black leather. The proper square weave carpeting is new. All the original VDO gauges work well including the clock. The dash color matches the exterior as it should. The steering wheel is original but has some scuffs, the horns work well. The Becker Europa radio and amplifier was rebuilt by Becker Autosound. The black canvas soft top is virtually new, fits well and operates easily. The car has passed a Pennsylvania safety inspection. Complete with an original owner’s manual in German, factory data card, a spare and jack, this is a car to be driven and enjoyed!
Purchase Details:
Why wait until the end of the auction? Call now!! Don’t let it get away!
If you are interested in making an offer just call me and we can discuss it. If we can settle on a price I will adjust the Buy-It-Now to our agreed on price. I’m free during business hours to answer your calls and questions. Call Paul at 610-683-0480.
We are a licensed Pennsylvania auto dealer who has been in business since 1991. We take all of our eBay transactions very seriously, and more importantly we take our customers satisfaction very seriously.
Please have all funds available prior to bidding, and most important ask any and all questions before you bid. You can call me and I will be happy to discuss any questions or concerns you might have. We are dedicated to making your transaction with us a smooth and pleasurable one.
When you are ready to pick up your vehicle we will make our schedules very flexible for you because we know its hard to juggle work and travel. We can arrange for extra cost shipping right to your front door, but please remember shipping costs and liability are the buyer's responsibility.
Please inspect the vehicle personally before bidding; we are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the description of this car. This is a used car and will have some wear that may not be visible in the pictures. So please call with any questions prior to bidding.
Please contact me by phone within 24 hours after the end of the auction at 610-683-0480. A $10,000 down payment is required immediately after a "Buy It Now" transaction is initiated. Payment will be by wire transfer or other method agreed to by the parties.
This vehicle is offered for sale locally as well, so we have the right to end the auction at any time without notice.
A 30 day Pennsylvania In-Transit tag is available for out of state buyers to insure you can legally drive your vehicle home with no hassle. You must supply proof of insurance and an ID. When we process the title to this vehicle it will have the buyer’s name and address recorded on it. We will not provide titles that are incompletely filled out or blank. Pennsylvania residents must pay applicable sales taxes, license, documentation and title fees. Out of state buyers will pay taxes and other fees to their state's DMV.
We may be able to help arrange financing. Call me for more details.
All financing needs to be arranged before bidding. This is a binding contract to purchase a vehicle and not to come and negotiate a better price. Please do not assume that there is more included with the vehicle other than what is pictured.
This vehicle is being offered by Maxatawny Auto Sales, Inc. 15320 Kutztown Road, Kutztown, PA 19530. It is consigned to us by the owner. Our PA Dealer's License is 86-15604.
My name is Paul and I can be contacted at 610-683-0480.