In the early 1950's, Mercedes Benz astounded the world of racing and up scale Grand Touring with the introduction of the incomparable 300SL. Designed for racing, but beautifully adapted for road use, the 300SL garnered track victories while attracting well healed sports car enthusiasts. It soon became evident that there was an eager market for a high quality Mercedes sports car, reminiscent of the 300's luscious styling, but more oriented toward touring, and more affordable. Enter the 190SL. Powered by a modest overhead cam 4 cylinder engine, this was no race car. Yet, it's engine and precise suspension were sufficient to provide a fine drive down any country road.
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-----Perhaps the 190SL's strongest suit is it's styling. Beautifully proportioned, the exterior presents a more reserved profile than the 300SL but incorporates a perfect blend of it's famous curves. The interior provides fine carpeting, very comfortable seating, attractive dash and meter layout, and a well designed thickly padded folding cloth top that that can be raised and lowered with ease. In spite of a very smooth ride, the handling is crisp and responsive.
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-----The 190SL began a long line of Mercedes Benz luxury sport / touring cars that continues to this day.