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50 - 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Chassis number 5501011 • Legendary…
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Estimate €80,000 - €100,000
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Description
1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Chassis number 5501011 • Legendary model • Attractive configuration • Rare 1955 version: one of 1,727 produced • Matching numbers • In fine condition Unveiled as a prototype at the New York International Auto Show, largely at the instigation of the American importer Max Hoffman, the 190 SL went into production in May 1955 and remained in the range until 1963. A total of 25,881 units were built, a significant proportion of which were destined for the American market. With its design inspired by the 300 SL but adapted for more everyday road use, the 190 SL occupies a special place in the history of Mercedes-Benz. Its meticulous construction, the gradual evolution of its mechanics over the course of its production run, and the good availability of parts continue to make it highly sought-after by collectors to this day. The car on display is a first-series 190 SL, which left the factory in 1955 and was delivered new to the US market. It retains its sought-after early-production features, notably its 300 SL-style seats, its distinctive dashboard, its small rear lights and its small door handles. An expert’s report dating from 2007 details the major restoration carried out on this vehicle. The mechanical components were overhauled in the United States in the early 2000s. The work included a complete overhaul of the engine and its accessories, the carburettors, the exhaust system, the running gear and the braking system, as well as the replacement of the electrical system. The bodywork, for its part, underwent extensive restoration after the body was stripped back to the bare metal. Although we do not have the invoices for this work, the car’s visual condition and overall presentation speak for themselves. A second expert report, carried out in 2014 by Henri Pluton, confirms the presence of the original engine (matching numbers). The expert does, however, note a discrepancy of two digits between the stamped number (55-01009) and the chassis plate (55-01011); a common and well-documented anomaly in these early years of production. More recently, in 2023, the original Solex carburettors were fully overhauled by the specialist Niemöller at a cost of 3,690 euros. However, as the car has seen little use since then, a mechanical service will be required before it can be driven on the road. In addition, the steering box will need to be adjusted. This 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL represents a rare opportunity to acquire an early-series model, one that is particularly pure and faithful to the spirit of the original design. Combining the timeless elegance of its ‘baby SL’ silhouette with a high-quality period restoration, this icon of 1950s lifestyle is a wonderful project. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Chassis Number: 5501011 • Legendary model • Attractive specification • Rare 1955 version: 1 of only 1,727 produced • Matching Numbers • Beautifully preserved condition • Unveiled as a prototype at the New York International Auto Show—largely at the instigation of American importer Max Hoffman—the 190 SL went into production in May 1955 and remained in the catalogue until 1963. In total, 25,881 units were assembled, with a significant proportion destined for the US market. With a design inspired by the 300 SL but adapted for more practical road use, the 190 SL holds a special place in Mercedes-Benz history. Its rigorous build quality, the progressive evolution of its mechanical components throughout its production run, and the excellent availability of parts continue to make it highly desirable amongst collectors today. The example presented here is a first-series 190 SL, which left the factory in 1955 and was delivered new to the American market. It retains its highly sought-after early-production features, including 300 SL-style seats, its characteristic dashboard, small rear lights and small door handles. An appraisal report from 2007 details a major restoration carried out on this vehicle. The mechanical components were rebuilt in the United States in the early 2000s. The work included a complete overhaul of the engine and its accessories, the carburettors, the exhaust system, the running gear and the braking system, as well as the replacement of the electrical wiring harness. The bodywork also underwent a major restoration after being stripped down to the bare shell. Although invoices for this work are not available, the car’s visual presentation and overall condition bear direct witness to it. A second valuation report, carried out in 2014 by Henri Pluton, confirms the presence of the original engine (matching numbers). The expert noted, however, a discrepancy of two digits between the stamped chassis number (55-01009) and the chassis plate (55-01011)—a common and well-documented anomaly during these early years of production. More recently, in 2023, the original Solex carburettors were fully overhauled by specialist Niemöller at a cost of €3,690. However, as the car has been driven very little since then, a mechanical service will be required before it is taken on the road. Additionally, an adjustment to the steering box should be planned. This 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL represents a rare opportunity to acquire a first-series model that is particularly authentic and faithful to the spirit of the original design. Combining the timeless elegance of its ‘Baby SL’ lines with a high-quality older restoration, this icon of 1950s lifestyle makes for a beautiful project.
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About the sale Classic cars
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Auction time 06/29/2026 at 2:00 PM
Lot description modified on 06/19/2026 at 2:37 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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