Developed from the savvy Max Hoffman’s vision of a stylish, approachable sibling to the 300 SL, the 190 SL was launched at the 1955 Geneva Motor Show and marketed alongside the 300 SL’s entire production run until 1963.

An impressive 25,881 examples were built, with the majority exported to the US.

Priced at $3,998, the 190 SL was about half the price of the Gullwing at the time of its debut.


This 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is attractively finished in the popular Feuerwehrot (Fire Engine Red, DB 534) over a refreshingly attractive light ivory leather interior with a tan canvas top and boot.

It is fitted with a seldom-seen kinderseat, which adapts the storage area behind the seats for use as an occasional third seat.

Restored by Al Van Skaik of Florida, the car is accompanied by numerous receipts detailing the high-quality work performed.


In 1995, the 190 SL joined the collection of noted collector Jon Leimkuehler and his wife, who enjoyed it for nearly 25 years before its acquis...