Mercedes-Benz 190 SL turns 60

Mercedes-Benz celebrates the 60th anniversary the 190 SL two-seater convertible.

Mercedes-Benz celebrates the 60th Anniversary of its 190 SL two-seater convertible.

The concept was shown at the International Motor Sports Show, New York in February 1954. In March 1955, the production model made its debut at the 25th International Motor Show, Geneva. Production began in May of the same year.

Mercedes-Benz 190 SL turns 60

The convertible was powered by a 1.9-liter four-cylinder petrol motor with an overhead camshaft and 105 HP (77kW). Mercedes-Benz claims the convertible, which seats two people, “set new standards in comfortable travel with sporty notes by offering a refreshingly different take on Gran Turismo”.

Nearly 80 percent of the 25,881 vehicles produced were exported from Germany. The USA was the largest market – nearly 40 percent of all 190 SL models sold there.