Pick Of The Day: 1959 Mercedes-benz 190sl

Let me start by saying that the 190SL is not a budget 300SL, nor should it be viewed as a consolation prize for one. It is an entirely different car with its own character and purpose. Instead of comparing it to the 300SL, think of the 190SL as a classic German roadster equally at home on a weekend drive or a multi-day classic car tour, with the added benefit of being welcomed at many concours events. Our Pick of the Day is one of these cars, a 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190SL offered on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in St. Louis.

The seller describes this 190SL as finished in classic black paint with a black leather interior and German square-weave carpeting. It is said to have recently been mechanically recommissioned by a respected Mercedes-Benz specialist.

Originally finished in Schwarz (German for “black”), chassis number 9500194 was sold new in the U.S. and retains the same exterior color today. It has also been retrofitted with air conditioning, providing added comfort for the driver and passenger during warm-weather drives.

This car’s aforementioned mechanical recommissioning took place in 2023, with receipts totaling over $12,000. As an added bonus, the matching-numbers engine had its Solex carbs replaced by an upgraded twin Weber 42DCOE8 carburetors, making for a much more drivable car. This 190SL reportedly runs and drives exceptionally well, delivering smooth, dependable performance suited to relaxed touring and weekend drives.

Asking prices for nice Mercedes 190SLs are all over the map. The seller describes this one cosmetically as an honest and attractive driver, putting it right in the middle of the market. They state the paint “exhibits the gentle character expected of a well-enjoyed example,” while the black leather interior and German square-weave carpeting remain “inviting and comfortable.” While not a concours car, this 190SL offers the authenticity and usability that encourage regular enjoyment behind the wheel, rather than reserving it solely for special occasions.

In addition, this 190SL includes a copy of its factory Data Card, recent service records, and its unrestored big-window hardtop. If you are looking for a nicely sorted vintage Mercedes-Benz to drive, tour, and enjoy, this seems to be a great choice. The only change I would make would be to ditch the whitewalls (I have always thought Mercedes roadsters look silly with whitewalls fitted.

With an asking price of $107,500, this 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190SL occupies an appealing middle ground. You can spend considerably more for a show car or less for an example requiring significant attention, but this one offers a compelling combination of condition, usability and value. It puts you behind the wheel of a classic Mercedes sports car with impressive build quality, excellent fit and finish, reasonable service costs, and plenty of top-down motoring enjoyment.

Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com