1956 Mercedes-Benz 190SL
Presentation
This 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190SL was the subject of a refurbishment under previous ownership by Arthur Bechtel Classic Motors in Böblingen, Germany, with work including overhauling the 1.9-liter inline-four and rear differential, disassembling the car, refinishing the bodywork, reupholstering the cabin, refreshing various mechanical systems, and more. The car was brought to the US before it was listed on BaT in August 2023 and sold on BaT in February 2024, and it was acquired by the seller in 2025. A large-window hardtop has been sourced, and additional equipment includes a four-speed manual transmission, a red convertible soft top, 13″ steel wheels, body-color hubcaps, a rear “Kinder” jump seat, an analog clock, and a push-button radio. This 190SL is now offered with refurbishment photos, a fitted luggage set, a hardtop stand, an owner’s manual, and a California title in the name of the seller’s business.
The car was refinished during the restoration, and a color tag shown in the 2023 previous listing gallery below lists the code for Silver Grey (180). Features include a red convertible soft top and a matching top boot as well as dual mirrors and a chrome-finished windshield surround, grille, and bumpers. The image above and the majority of the gallery photos were taken in October 2025, and the car has remained stored since.
Steel 13″ wheels wear chrome trim rings, hubcaps with body-color accents, and 185/80 Maxxis MA-1 tires. The car is equipped with a double-wishbone front suspension, rear swing axles with coil springs, and power-assisted drum brakes.
The cabin features low-back bucket seats that were reupholstered in red leather, which extends to the door panels and dashboard trim. Black loop-pile carpeting lines the floor. Amenities include a rear “Kinder” jump seat, a push-button radio, an analog clock, and a dashboard-mounted rearview mirror. The trunk is equipped with a set of red luggage straps, and the included luggage is shown in the gallery below.
The two-spoke steering wheel frames VDO instrumentation including a 140-mph speedometer and a 7k-rpm tachometer as well as gauges for oil pressure, water temperature, and fuel level. The five-digit odometer shows 81 miles, and total mileage is unknown.
The 1.9-liter M121 inline-four was factory rated at 104 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, and it was overhauled during the refurbishment.
Bids & Comments
samirhadeed 0
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:53
Bid in the amount of $185,000
xmkx
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:53
Bid in the amount of $181,000
samirhadeed
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:51
Bid in the amount of $180,000
xmkx
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:50
Bid in the amount of $175,000
Jacky1963
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:50
Bid in the amount of $174,000
samirhadeed
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:50
Bid in the amount of $173,000
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:49
Bid in the amount of $171,000
samirhadeed
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:49
Bid in the amount of $170,000
Jacky1963
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:49
Bid in the amount of $167,000
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:48
Bid in the amount of $166,000
xmkx
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:48
Bid in the amount of $165,000
samirhadeed
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:48
Bid in the amount of $160,000
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:48
Bid in the amount of $155,000
Jacky1963
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:47
Bid in the amount of $153,000
samirhadeed
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:47
Bid in the amount of $152,000
Jacky1963
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:46
Bid in the amount of $151,000
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:45
Bid in the amount of $150,000
xmkx
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:44
Bid in the amount of $144,000
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:44
Bid in the amount of $143,000
jacobbouganim
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:43
Bid in the amount of $142,000
Mmoscone
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:43
Bid in the amount of $141,000
xmkx
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:42
Bid in the amount of $140,000
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:42
Bid in the amount of $136,000
jacobbouganim
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:42
Bid in the amount of $135,000
Mmoscone
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:42
Bid in the amount of $134,000
xmkx
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:41
Bid in the amount of $133,000
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:39
Bid in the amount of $132,000
xmkx
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:39
Bid in the amount of $130,000
Mmoscone
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:37
Bid in the amount of $127,000
ststefano
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:36
Bid in the amount of $126,000
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:32
ATTENTION ALL BIDDERS – FINAL CHANCE!
This exceptional classic has been driven only 82 miles since its complete, high-quality restoration! Meticulously restored with exceptional attention to detail and new components throughout, this beautiful vehicle presents in stunning, like-new condition.
This is a rare opportunity to own a truly remarkable classic without the time and expense of a full restoration.
THE AUCTION IS COMING TO AN END! TIME IS RUNNING OUT!
Don't miss this incredible opportunity. Place your strongest bids before the auction closes! Once the bidding ends, this rare beauty may be gone for good!
Thank you all for your interest, best of luck, and happy bidding!
This exceptional classic has been driven only 82 miles since its complete, high-quality restoration! Meticulously restored with exceptional attention to detail and new components throughout, this beautiful vehicle presents in stunning, like-new condition.
This is a rare opportunity to own a truly remarkable classic without the time and expense of a full restoration.
THE AUCTION IS COMING TO AN END! TIME IS RUNNING OUT!
Don't miss this incredible opportunity. Place your strongest bids before the auction closes! Once the bidding ends, this rare beauty may be gone for good!
Thank you all for your interest, best of luck, and happy bidding!
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:32
Bid in the amount of $125,000
Mmoscone
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:31
Bid in the amount of $121,000
xmkx
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:31
Bid in the amount of $120,000
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:30
Bid in the amount of $115,000
cbdewitt
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:24
Bid in the amount of $113,000
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:23
Hello, thank you for your concern. As we explained in our previous updates, we discovered the missing linkage components only at the last minute, after the videos had already been recorded and posted.
Since purchasing this beautiful vehicle, the engine has always started and run exceptionally well, which is why this issue came as a surprise. Once we identified the cause, we immediately ordered the necessary replacement parts and openly shared our findings with all bidders.
We want to reassure everyone that we stand behind this vehicle and are fully committed to correcting the issue properly. We take great pride in our vehicles, value our reputation, and want the winning bidder to feel completely confident in their purchase.
We sincerely appreciate everyone's understanding, trust, and continued interest.
Thank you, and bid with confidence!
Since purchasing this beautiful vehicle, the engine has always started and run exceptionally well, which is why this issue came as a surprise. Once we identified the cause, we immediately ordered the necessary replacement parts and openly shared our findings with all bidders.
We want to reassure everyone that we stand behind this vehicle and are fully committed to correcting the issue properly. We take great pride in our vehicles, value our reputation, and want the winning bidder to feel completely confident in their purchase.
We sincerely appreciate everyone's understanding, trust, and continued interest.
Thank you, and bid with confidence!
Redmustang
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:22
Bid in the amount of $112,000
Oct 31, 2026 · 18:19
My concern is how do you not notice that i the engine was not ready for prime time before you recorded and posted those videos.
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 31, 2026 · 17:53
Hello Bidders,
Don’t miss your chance to own this absolutely beautiful classic! This is a truly exceptional vehicle that you’ll be proud to own and enjoy for years to come.
Now is your chance! Place your best bid, bid with confidence, and don’t let this beautiful classic slip away. The winning bidder will be taking home something truly special!
Thank you all for your interest, best of luck, and happy bidding!
Don’t miss your chance to own this absolutely beautiful classic! This is a truly exceptional vehicle that you’ll be proud to own and enjoy for years to come.
Now is your chance! Place your best bid, bid with confidence, and don’t let this beautiful classic slip away. The winning bidder will be taking home something truly special!
Thank you all for your interest, best of luck, and happy bidding!
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 31, 2026 · 17:34
Thank you for your comment. This issue was unexpected, and we appreciate your understanding. As the auction comes to a close, we sincerely thank all bidders for your interest, comments, and support. Best of luck, and happy bidding!
Howard62
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 17:28
Bid in the amount of $110,000
Oct 31, 2026 · 17:22
How does that happen? I’d understand a worn out part but a missing component? I also appreciate that you took the time and effort for proper diagnosis (hopefully!)
jacobbouganim
Bid
Oct 31, 2026 · 16:44
Bid in the amount of $102,000
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 31, 2026 · 16:26
Hello Bidders,
We would like to reassure everyone that this issue arose unexpectedly at the very last minute. Since purchasing this beautiful vehicle, it has always started, run, and driven exceptionally well.
We are taking the necessary steps to address the issue properly and ensure the vehicle performs as expected. We take great pride in our vehicles and are committed to being transparent and providing our buyers with confidence and peace of mind.
Thank you for your understanding, continued interest, and confidence in this exceptional classic.
Best of luck to everyone, and happy bidding!
We would like to reassure everyone that this issue arose unexpectedly at the very last minute. Since purchasing this beautiful vehicle, it has always started, run, and driven exceptionally well.
We are taking the necessary steps to address the issue properly and ensure the vehicle performs as expected. We take great pride in our vehicles and are committed to being transparent and providing our buyers with confidence and peace of mind.
Thank you for your understanding, continued interest, and confidence in this exceptional classic.
Best of luck to everyone, and happy bidding!
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 31, 2026 · 16:08
Hello Bidders,
Attached are photos of the parts needed to correct the idle issue, along with the order confirmation showing that the parts have been ordered.
We will install them as soon as they arrive and ensure the issue is properly addressed.
Thank you for your patience, interest, and continued bidding
Attached are photos of the parts needed to correct the idle issue, along with the order confirmation showing that the parts have been ordered.
We will install them as soon as they arrive and ensure the issue is properly addressed.
Thank you for your patience, interest, and continued bidding
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 31, 2026 · 15:39
Hello Bidders,
We have identified the cause of the high idle speed. A linkage component is missing, as shown in the attached photos. We have already ordered the replacement part, which is expected to arrive within 10 days.
Once the part arrives, we will install it, make the necessary idle adjustments, and ensure the engine is running smoothly.
Thank you for your patience and understanding. Happy bidding!
We have identified the cause of the high idle speed. A linkage component is missing, as shown in the attached photos. We have already ordered the replacement part, which is expected to arrive within 10 days.
Once the part arrives, we will install it, make the necessary idle adjustments, and ensure the engine is running smoothly.
Thank you for your patience and understanding. Happy bidding!
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 31, 2026 · 15:20
Dear Bidders,
We stand firmly behind the quality and performance of this vehicle's engine. We guarantee that the engine is in excellent running condition and performs as described.
To give you complete confidence in your purchase, if the engine does not meet our guarantee, we will fully reimburse the winning bidder's auction fee.
Bid with confidence! This is your opportunity to purchase a vehicle backed by our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Don't miss your chance—place your bids, bid strong, and bid with confidence!
Thank you for your interest, and best of luck to all bidders!
We stand firmly behind the quality and performance of this vehicle's engine. We guarantee that the engine is in excellent running condition and performs as described.
To give you complete confidence in your purchase, if the engine does not meet our guarantee, we will fully reimburse the winning bidder's auction fee.
Bid with confidence! This is your opportunity to purchase a vehicle backed by our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Don't miss your chance—place your bids, bid strong, and bid with confidence!
Thank you for your interest, and best of luck to all bidders!
Oct 31, 2026 · 14:05
I agree it sounds a little rough in the motor running videos. Better on the RPM video. Is it possible to get a driving video? Beautiful car/colors.
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 30, 2026 · 19:11
No, never. Everything has remained original and unchanged since we purchased the vehicle.
Oct 30, 2026 · 18:21
Have there been any work or changes/modifications that have been made to the car since AB worked on it?
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 30, 2026 · 17:09
Hello Bidders,
Thank you for your comments on the video. The vehicle has been parked for some time, and the video demonstrates a cold engine start. The idle speed needs a minor adjustment.
Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!
Thank you for your comments on the video. The vehicle has been parked for some time, and the video demonstrates a cold engine start. The idle speed needs a minor adjustment.
Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 30, 2026 · 16:24
Hello Bidders,
Only one day remaining! This is your final opportunity to own this beautiful classic car—a wonderful investment to enjoy and cherish.
Don’t miss this opportunity. Place your best bid before the auction closes!
Thank you, and happy bidding!
Only one day remaining! This is your final opportunity to own this beautiful classic car—a wonderful investment to enjoy and cherish.
Don’t miss this opportunity. Place your best bid before the auction closes!
Thank you, and happy bidding!
Oct 29, 2026 · 18:07
Gorgeous car, good luck to buyer. I have a 1961 190sl. Any suggestions on where to get inexpensive front floor mats with logo? Most places are really expensive.
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 29, 2026 · 04:07
Hello Bidders,
We have just uploaded a new video showing the engine running and the RPM at idle for your review.
Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!
We have just uploaded a new video showing the engine running and the RPM at idle for your review.
Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!
Oct 29, 2026 · 02:47
What a remarkable example...
It's always wonderful seeing an A-B restoration come up for sale. I love the color combination and all the attention to the details~
The fact that a large window hardtop was sourced and fitted (most of the hardtops were fitted by hand to the specific car)
I suppose having the original small window would have been nice, but driving with the large window you would never want to return to the original.
Just a beautiful car.
I hope it finds a new home and someone who might enjoy driving it... that's what it was built to do.
Best of luck with the auction and thanks for bringing it back~
It's always wonderful seeing an A-B restoration come up for sale. I love the color combination and all the attention to the details~
The fact that a large window hardtop was sourced and fitted (most of the hardtops were fitted by hand to the specific car)
I suppose having the original small window would have been nice, but driving with the large window you would never want to return to the original.
Just a beautiful car.
I hope it finds a new home and someone who might enjoy driving it... that's what it was built to do.
Best of luck with the auction and thanks for bringing it back~
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 28, 2026 · 21:50
Hello Bidders,
When starting the engine cold, the choke may need to be pulled out to assist with starting. During the previous video, we inadvertently left the choke engaged, resulting in a higher-than-normal idle RPM.
We have included a photo showing the choke location for reference and will upload a new engine-running video later today.
Thank you for your interest!
When starting the engine cold, the choke may need to be pulled out to assist with starting. During the previous video, we inadvertently left the choke engaged, resulting in a higher-than-normal idle RPM.
We have included a photo showing the choke location for reference and will upload a new engine-running video later today.
Thank you for your interest!
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 28, 2026 · 15:27
Hello bidders,
Thank you for your observation. You are correct that the engine is idling higher than normal. We will adjust the idle speed to the proper RPM to ensure the engine runs smoothly and quietly. We appreciate your feedback and interest in this beautiful car!
Thank you for your observation. You are correct that the engine is idling higher than normal. We will adjust the idle speed to the proper RPM to ensure the engine runs smoothly and quietly. We appreciate your feedback and interest in this beautiful car!
Oct 28, 2026 · 13:36
A beautiful car. But I have a question about the engine.
In the 2 videos that the engine is running it sounds like the engine is idling very high. In fact it is not idling it sounds to my ear to be around 1500-2000 rpm. Am I correct? If so, why?
Also in the 2 engine running videos the engine sounds loud and rough. Years ago I rebuilt a 1958 190C engine completely myself. Every part that went back into that engine was a New MB part. It idled like a kitten napping. Smooth, quiet and steady. I remember it well because it was my car and I drove off and on for about 2 years. Can you explain why this engine sounds so rough and loud?
Thank you.
In the 2 videos that the engine is running it sounds like the engine is idling very high. In fact it is not idling it sounds to my ear to be around 1500-2000 rpm. Am I correct? If so, why?
Also in the 2 engine running videos the engine sounds loud and rough. Years ago I rebuilt a 1958 190C engine completely myself. Every part that went back into that engine was a New MB part. It idled like a kitten napping. Smooth, quiet and steady. I remember it well because it was my car and I drove off and on for about 2 years. Can you explain why this engine sounds so rough and loud?
Thank you.
67GT500
Bid
Oct 26, 2026 · 00:38
Bid in the amount of $100,000
Courtash
Bid
Oct 25, 2026 · 10:42
Bid in the amount of $95,000
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 24, 2026 · 17:57
Hello, bidders! A complete, high-quality restoration of this caliber by the renowned Arthur Bechtel Classic Motors in Germany could cost approximately $280,000–$350,000 today. This vehicle represents exceptional craftsmanship, quality, and attention to detail. A rare opportunity to own a beautifully restored classic without the time and expense of starting from scratch. Thank you all for your interest, and happy bidding!
xmkx
Bid
Oct 24, 2026 · 17:16
Bid in the amount of $92,500
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 24, 2026 · 17:11
Yes, the vehicle is equipped with seat belts. Thank you for your interest!
Oct 24, 2026 · 17:00
Does this car have seat belts installed?
Courtash
Bid
Oct 24, 2026 · 16:34
Bid in the amount of $85,000
CBock
Bid
Oct 24, 2026 · 15:38
Bid in the amount of $75,000
Peterklaw
Bid
Oct 24, 2026 · 08:22
Bid in the amount of $65,000
Oct 23, 2026 · 21:16
Drop dead gorgeous. I could live in that interior.
xmkx
Bid
Oct 23, 2026 · 20:22
Bid in the amount of $60,000
Oct 22, 2026 · 19:18
The seller mentions: " meticulously restored to like-new condition",,,,,,,that's precisely accurate. I have 3 Bechtels.......better than factory!!! Bid with supreme confidence.
joesavino
Bid
Oct 22, 2026 · 15:11
Bid in the amount of $45,124
xmkx
Bid
Oct 21, 2026 · 03:35
Bid in the amount of $42,000
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 21, 2026 · 01:56
Hello, bidders! This beautiful dream car has been meticulously restored to like-new condition, with new parts throughout. A rare find that's becoming harder and harder to come by! Don't miss your chance to own this incredible dream car! Opportunities like this don't come around often. Bid with confidence, bid to win, and don't let someone else drive away with the car you've always dreamed of owning! Place your bids now, stay in the game, and make this beauty yours! Good luck to all bidders, and may the highest bidder take home this amazing machine!
tartry
Bid
Oct 20, 2026 · 14:26
Bid in the amount of $41,000
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 20, 2026 · 14:09
Yes, the turn signal is activated using the switch on the steering wheel.
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 20, 2026 · 13:58
Yes, this is a matching-numbers car. Thank you!
tomphilip (The Seller)
Oct 20, 2026 · 13:50
No, we only have the large-window hardtop.
Oct 20, 2026 · 12:57
190SL represents the peak of classic European design. This is a timeless beauty.
MattSharp
Bid
Oct 20, 2026 · 10:45
Bid in the amount of $40,000
tprawdz
Bid
Oct 20, 2026 · 10:12
Bid in the amount of $20,500
Frodo-Lives
Bid
Oct 20, 2026 · 10:07
Bid in the amount of $20,000
tprawdz
Bid
Oct 20, 2026 · 08:36
Bid in the amount of $10,250
MattSharp
Bid
Oct 20, 2026 · 06:55
Bid in the amount of $10,000
Oct 20, 2026 · 02:42
Welcome back superb SL, beautiful in Silver Grey and gorgeous red leather 👍
Oct 20, 2026 · 02:04
Do you have the original small window hardtop?
Oct 20, 2026 · 01:43
Is this an original numbers matching car?
Oct 20, 2026 · 01:37
Is the turn signal activated in the wheel?
FerrariMaster
Bid
Oct 20, 2026 · 00:38
Bid in the amount of $1,959
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