Mercedes Benz 190 SL Hi-Poly

When Max Hoffman suggested that a junior sports car be produced to compete with the 300 SL, he hit on something rather brilliant. It was the 190 SL, a roadster that would be both affordable and approachable.

It was launched at the New York Auto Show in 1954 and quickly became an enviable success in the US. It was a more relaxed tourer than the 300, but still had plenty of luggage space despite a convertible top.

The 190 SL wasn't the most powerful model, but it had a good engine and plenty of torque for its size. It didn't have a mechanical injection system, but it was a reliable powerplant, capable of getting the car up to 106 miles per hour and sprinting from 0 to 62 mph in 13 seconds.

A slender gearlever and four forward cogs made the 190 SL a joy to drive, but it needed careful control. It was also an incredibly heavy unladen vehicle that scaled in at over 2500 pounds, and so it wasn't easy to move around town with it.

This 190 SL has been restored by the specialists at SL-Classics, and no system or component escaped the meticulous redressing. The original Anthracite Grey Metallic (DB 172) paint has been expertly applied, and the interior is resplendent in Cognac leather.

The 190 SL is a true classic, a model that's in high demand among discerning collectors. This is a particularly lovely example of this timeless car, and it's an excellent buy for anyone looking for a low-mileage, well-maintained 190 SL with an exceptional pedigree.