Mercedes-Benz 190 SL 1961 - World Of Classic Cars -

Mercedes-Benz 190 SL 1961

In 1954, Mercedes-Benz’s legendary competition-inspired 300 SL entered production. Few other cars could come close in either performance or style, but it also carried a hefty price. New York importer Max Hoffman wanted a smaller and more affordable version that he could sell in greater volumes.
The end result was the 190 SL, a stunning roadster in the style of the 300 SL, which reached the market in 1955 and significantly outsold its big brother. Daimler-Benz’s first volume sports car, the 190 SL used a shortened version of the W120 platform and topped it with the unique roadster body shell. The car was marketed as more of a comfortable cruiser than the powerful 300 SL, yet it delivered solid performance for the era, with a top speed of 110 mph. The 190 SL offered a surprising amount of luggage space, with its comparatively large boot and a roomy interior perfectly befitting of its role of sports tourer rather than out-and-out sports racer. Further boosting its desirability, the 190 SL sold for $3,840—about half that of its sibling.