Book overview
Mercedes-Benz 190SL - History, Technology and a Comprehensive Buyer's Guide
The 190SL (W121 B II) is one of the most elegant and recognizable sports cars of the 1950s and early 1960s. This extensively illustrated 190-page book tells the story of the 190SL from its development and introduction to its technical evolution, motorsport activities and lasting position in Mercedes-Benz history.
For owners and prospective buyers, the book includes a detailed 20-page buyer's guide covering the areas that deserve particular attention before purchasing a 190SL. Bodywork and corrosion, engine, Solex carburetors, suspension, interior, trim and other important components are discussed in detail.
The book also explains chassis numbers and Mercedes-Benz data cards and includes more than 150 color photographs, with detailed views of the engine, suspension, underbody, interior and other areas that are rarely shown in conventional books.
Inside, you will find:
Special chapters look at Max Hoffman, the influential US importer who played an important role in the creation of both the 190SL and 300SL, and Karl Wilfert, one of the key figures behind Mercedes-Benz passenger-car design during this era.
Whether you already own a 190SL, are considering buying one, or simply want to learn more about this classic Mercedes-Benz sports car, this book combines historical background with detailed technical and practical information.
Bernd S. Koehling has been involved with classic Mercedes-Benz automobiles since the 1970s and has written numerous books on the marque.
Additional photographs and sample pages from the book appear farther down this product page.
The 190SL (W121 B II) is one of the most elegant and recognizable sports cars of the 1950s and early 1960s. This extensively illustrated 190-page book tells the story of the 190SL from its development and introduction to its technical evolution, motorsport activities and lasting position in Mercedes-Benz history.
For owners and prospective buyers, the book includes a detailed 20-page buyer's guide covering the areas that deserve particular attention before purchasing a 190SL. Bodywork and corrosion, engine, Solex carburetors, suspension, interior, trim and other important components are discussed in detail.
The book also explains chassis numbers and Mercedes-Benz data cards and includes more than 150 color photographs, with detailed views of the engine, suspension, underbody, interior and other areas that are rarely shown in conventional books.
Inside, you will find:
- The development and history of the Mercedes-Benz 190SL
- A comprehensive 20-page buyer's guide
- Engine, Solex carburetors, chassis and suspension explained
- A larger engine is needed?
- Model evolution and important factory changes
- Chassis-number and data-card information
- Paint colors, interior combinations and equipment
- The 190SL in motorsport
- Mercedes-Benz brochures, advertising and the European Delivery Program
- A direct comparison between the 190SL and Porsche 356
- The remarkable story of driving a supercharged 190SL in 1959
- Detailed technical specifications
Special chapters look at Max Hoffman, the influential US importer who played an important role in the creation of both the 190SL and 300SL, and Karl Wilfert, one of the key figures behind Mercedes-Benz passenger-car design during this era.
Whether you already own a 190SL, are considering buying one, or simply want to learn more about this classic Mercedes-Benz sports car, this book combines historical background with detailed technical and practical information.
Bernd S. Koehling has been involved with classic Mercedes-Benz automobiles since the 1970s and has written numerous books on the marque.
Additional photographs and sample pages from the book appear farther down this product page.
