1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL

Captivating audiences at the 1955 International Motor Show in Geneva, the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL shared a number of handsome design cues with its bigger brother, the 300 SL. The iconic grille, “eyebrow”-accented fenders, and graceful proportions imbued the small roadster with similarly breathtaking styling.

The known history of this 190 SL begins in 1974 when enthusiast Steve Sizemore of Toledo, Ohio, traded his Porsche 356 Cabriolet for it. According to his note on file, Mr. Sizemore drove the 190 SL that summer and then put it in storage, where it remained for 15 years. During that time, he purchased NOS parts required for his planned restoration. The comprehensive restoration was completed in Ohio in the 1990s, and afterward Mr. Sizemore won several local shows with the Mercedes-Benz. In 1999, Mr. Sizemore sold the vehicle to a prominent collector on the East Coast, who retained it until 2007, when it was acquired by the current owner, a longtime collector of postwar sports cars.

Finished in its original color scheme of white with a red leather interior, the 190 SL is fitted with a hardtop and the kinder transverse-mounted third seat. Its older restoration having mellowed and displaying a gentle patina, this 190 SL would be an excellent candidate for local shows or casual topdown motoring.