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Description

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.

Condition & Registration

Registered

Ready to drive

Inspection Report

Not available

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Technical Details

Vehicle data

Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model series: SL-Class
Model name: 190 SL
Manufacturer code: W 121 B II
First registration date: Not provided
Year of manufacture: 1960
Mileage (read)
Chassis number: Not provided
Engine number: Not provided
Gearbox number: Not provided
Matching numbers: No
Number of owners: Not provided

Technical details

Body style: Convertible (Roadster)
Power (kW/hp): 77/105
Cubic capacity (cm³): 1897
Cylinders: 4
Doors: 2
Steering: Right (RHD)
Gearbox: Manual
Gears: 4
Transmission: Rear
Front brakes: Drum
Rear brakes: Drum
Fuel type: Petrol

1960 | Mercedes-Benz 190 SL