• Fully stripped, rebuilt and painted after arrival in the UK• Engine partially rebuilt, and correct leather interior replaced• Subsequent ‘Hemmels Signature’ restorationThe Mercedes-Benz 190 SL made history at the New York International Motor Sports Show in February 1954 by being the first new production car to be unveiled outside of Germany.

The new car was neat and sporty, especially when displayed alongside its elder brother, the larger and more intricate 300 from which it drew inspiration, and the two cars were launched at practically the same time.

It was a huge success, with its engine boasting four inline cylinders delivering a respectable 108bhp and offering a simpler chassis adapted from the W121 saloon.

The lines were exquisite and it was universally acclaimed for both its design and performance.

Costing half as much as the 300 SL, the 190 SL outsold its counterpart by a ratio of eight to one and proved especially popular in the United States which accounted for nearly 7...