Mercedes-Benz, The SL story, The 190SL: The complete 190SL history with buyer's guide and superb recent color photos - Paperback

by Bernd S. Koehling (Author)

Mercedes-Benz 190SL - The Essential Guide to a Timeless Icon
The Mercedes 190SL (W121 BII) is one of the most elegant and beloved classics of the 1950s and 1960s. This 190-page guide tells the complete story of the 190SL, from its development and technical details to its racing history and unique position in the sports car market.

This guide, updated in December 2025, includes an extended 20-page buyer's guide, in-depth explanations of chassis numbers and data card, and comes with over 150 recent color photographs - including rare shots of the suspension and interior details. This book is also available in German here on Amazon.

Key topics inside:
- Development and history of the 190SL
- Technical features and engineering highlights
- Evolution of the model and factory updates
- A larger engine is needed
- 190SL in motorsport and racing history
- W121 brochures, advertising, and European delivery program
- 190SL vs. Porsche 356 - a direct comparison
- Driving a supercharged 190SL in 1959
- Comprehensive 20-page buyer's guide
- Paint, trim, and interior options explained
- Full technical specifications

A special chapter is dedicated to Max Hoffman, the influential US importer who shaped Mercedes' success in America, and Karl Wilfert, Mercedes' visionary head of passenger car design in the 1950s and 60s.

This is the only recent English-language book dedicated exclusively to the 190SL, making it an essential resource for owners, enthusiasts, and collectors alike.