The 1960 Mercedes Convertible represents a pinnacle of automotive design and engineering from a golden era. Synonymous with luxury, performance, and timeless style, these vehicles hold a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Among the most celebrated models of this era is the Mercedes-Benz 190SL, a car that perfectly embodies the spirit of open-top motoring in the 1960s.
The Mercedes-Benz 190SL, introduced in 1954 and entering production in 1955, was conceived as a more accessible sibling to the legendary 300SL Gullwing. Inspired by Mercedes-Benz’s racing heritage and the groundbreaking 300SL, the 190SL offered a blend of sporting character and refined comfort. While not as overtly performance-focused as its 300SL counterpart, the 190SL quickly established itself as a desirable sports roadster in its own right. The development was initially delayed to reinforce the chassis, ensuring the open-top structure maintained Mercedes-Benz’s renowned build quality and rigidity. As Road & Track magazine keenly noted at the time, anticipation for this “moderately priced SL version” was exceptionally high and long-awaited.
Under the hood, the 190SL featured a newly developed 1,897cc overhead-camshaft four-cylinder engine, the M121. This engine, a first for Mercedes-Benz in terms of overhead-cam four-cylinder design, was equipped with twin Solex downdraft carburetors and produced a healthy 105bhp. This power output translated to a 0-100km/h acceleration in a respectable 14.5 seconds and a top speed of 171km/h. Beyond performance figures, the 190SL was praised for its smooth power delivery and relative fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for both spirited drives and comfortable cruising. The driving experience, while more geared towards boulevard cruising than outright sports car handling, did not diminish its appeal. In fact, this blend of comfort and style contributed significantly to its sales success, particularly in the lucrative American market. Out of nearly 26,000 units produced between 1955 and 1963, a significant portion found homes in the United States, solidifying its status as a transatlantic classic.
The specific 1960 Mercedes 190SL convertible we are highlighting is a right-hand drive model, originally delivered in July 1960. Adding to its unique history, this particular vehicle was shipped from Barbados to the UK around 1970. It boasts a remarkable ownership history, having been cherished by its previous owner for an impressive 40 years, from 1971 to 2011. During this long-term ownership, the 190SL underwent an extensive, meticulous bare-metal restoration. This comprehensive restoration addressed every aspect of the car, ensuring it was returned to its former glory. The restoration included a full refurbishment of the rare and desirable hardtop, which remains unused since its restoration. The interior was expertly re-trimmed in striking red leather, complemented by matching carpets and a new headlining. A new mohair hood was also fitted, completing the convertible transformation.
While preserving its classic charm, certain upgrades were thoughtfully incorporated to enhance reliability and usability. The fuel system was improved with the addition of an electric fuel pump, and Weber carburetors were installed, though the original Solex carburetors are also included with the car. The electrical system received attention as well, benefiting from an alternator, a new wiring loom, and an electric screen washer. Presented in a classic white exterior finish with a vibrant red interior and matching hardtop, this 1960 Mercedes convertible is described as being in generally very good condition, with particular note to the excellent engine. Accompanying this exceptional vehicle is a substantial history file containing numerous invoices, a MoT certificate valid until June 2017 (as per the original documentation), and a V5C registration document. Furthermore, it comes with a Glenn’s Tune Up Guide and three owner’s manuals, adding to its provenance and collectibility. It’s important to note that the cherished registration mark currently on the car is being retained by the vendor. The car comes with its hardtop and is available for viewing upon request, offering a unique opportunity to acquire a beautifully restored and historically significant 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190SL convertible.
