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.