1956 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL (W121)

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1956 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL (W121)

This auction has now closed. Click “I’M INTERESTED” below to enquire about this vehicle or to get notified when we consign a similar one.

Mileage~90,894 on clock
TransmissionManual
Engine1.9-litre
LocationTavistock

AUCTION CLOSED

1956 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL (W121)

I’M INTERESTED

Introduction

Jacob Boodrie

Professional Consigner

The car that began the legendary Mercedes-Benz SL story - The W121

The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL (W121) marked the beginning of the iconic SL roadster lineage. Developed as a more attainable companion to the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, it offered drivers the opportunity to enjoy open-top Mercedes-Benz motoring with the same elegance, craftsmanship and prestige.

Blending refinement with sporting pedigree, the 190 SL featured a sophisticated monocoque structure and independent suspension, giving it the poise and composure expected from a Mercedes of the era. While not designed as an outright racer like its 300 SL sibling, its engineering roots were firmly planted in the brand’s motorsport heritage.

For many enthusiasts today, the 190 SL perfectly captures the glamour and optimism of 1950s motoring. Its graceful proportions, distinctive grille and elegant detailing make it one of the most recognisable and desirable classic roadsters of the period.

This listing was written from information supplied by Jacob after meeting Jeremy the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

A timeless design that embodies classic Mercedes-Benz elegance.

Jeremy has loved owning this 190 SL throughout his ownership, using it for enjoyable drives along the coastal roads of Devon and Cornwall. This example really does turn heads wherever he takes it.

Due to a lack of use and a move on the horizon, Jeremy is now looking for a new custodian to take over ownership of his beloved 190 SL (W121). Jeremy will be on hand to answer any questions you may have in the comments below.

Jeremy

Vehicle Owner

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Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

From its distinctive grille to its flowing body lines and chrome accents, this 190 SL (W121) delivers unmistakable 1950s style and presence.

Wheels and Tyres

The 13” wheels with their chrome hub caps present in great condition. During our visit, we noticed some minor specks on the chrome hub caps that would benefit from a deep clean and detail.

The white-walled tyres fitted are Maxxis MA-1s, dated 2015/16, all of which show a good amount of remaining tread. No visible cracking or signs of general age-related wear were observed on the outer sidewalls.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Bodywork

The bodywork appears to be in great condition, with panel gaps aligning well visually all around the car.

We've provided more detailed observations through our high-resolution images and videos. Please take the time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer and to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

Finished in ‘White’ or ‘Weiss’ (paint code: 50 G), the paintwork presents very well with even colour and coverage across all panels.

A deep clean and detail would really bring the paintwork to another level.

Once again, we've captured high-resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the condition of the bodywork for yourselves.

Glass and Trim

The glass is in great condition for the car’s age. During our visit, we didn’t notice any obvious cracks or discolouration.

The window seals appear good and consistent with the overall condition of the car.

The chrome door handles and window surrounds also present very well.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

The cabin features beautifully crafted materials, classic analogue gauges and elegant detailing — creating an atmosphere that perfectly complements the car’s timeless character.

Seats and Carpets

The red leather seats have retained their shape well over the years since their restoration.

The door cards and carpets present in a similar manner, showing consistent condition throughout the interior.

For a detailed view of the cabin, please take a look at the extensive media.

Dashboard

The dashboard in this 190 SL shows no major scuffs. The red leather dashboard top also looks to be in great condition, along with all the retro dials, radio player and chrome bezels.

The odometer read ~90,894 miles at the time of our visit.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Both the original white/cream steering wheel and the gearstick present in very good condition.

For a closer look, check out the image gallery to see the detail.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Powering the 190 SL is a refined 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine capable of speeds up to ~107 mph.

Engine and Gearbox

Under the bonnet sits a 1.9-litre inline-four engine fed by twin Solex carburettors, producing around 104 BHP when new and capable of propelling the car to a top speed of ~107 mph.

On the day of consignment, the car would not start as the battery was flat. As the car has been sitting for the previous ~6 months, it would be advisable for the fluids to be checked and for the car to receive a mechanical inspection before starting.

Take a look at the mechanical video for a closer look underneath the Mercedes-Benz and its engine bay.

Suspension and Brakes

We weren’t able to test the car on the road due to it not starting.

However, Jeremy reports the suspension to be in good condition, along with the brakes.

The Drive

Jeremy reported that the car performed well when it was last on the road around ~6 months ago. Known for being extremely enjoyable on open roads with the roof down, he says it always attracts plenty of attention wherever he drives it.

Electrics and Other

We didn’t test all the electrics during our visit, but Jeremy reports that everything is functional and operational.

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History and Paperwork

Previously restored to a very high standard and kept in a heated garage, this Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is a timeless classic ready to be enjoyed by its new custodian.

This Mercedes-Benz retains a pleasing sense of originality, complete with its correct 1.9-litre engine, white paintwork, chrome detailing, red leather interior and dashboard, chrome wheel caps and white-walled tyres.

Ideal for a Mercedes-Benz and classic car enthusiast who can mechanically bring the car back to its former motoring glory on the open road.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Key Details

Year1956
Model190SL W121
TransmissionManual
CC1,897CC
Mileage~90,894 on clock
ColourWhite (Weiss)
Interior ColourRed
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #121040 6502628
Engine #M 121 B.II/121 921 6502687
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes
Tyre TreadGood
Tyre BrandMaxxis
Tyre Age2016
LHD or RHDLHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Key FeatureCondition
Vehicle RegistrationH8239BBB
Driver’s SideLeft
Fuel TypePetrol
Body TypeConvertible
Auction ID3464

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All Images

History and Paperwork

All Videos

Vehicle Location

Tavistock

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Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information or let us know if you want to be notified when a similar car comes to market.

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Seller : Jacob Boodrie

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Vehicle Location

Tavistock

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