The mention of the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL sports car line immediately conjures up images of luxury and elegance. It’s no wonder that many Vietnamese enthusiasts dream of owning one of these coveted automobiles. However, finding a seller can be a challenge, as evidenced by the fact that businessman Dang Le Nguyen Vu has successfully acquired at least two of these rare cars in Vietnam, leaving many in awe and reinforcing the notion that money can indeed buy exclusivity.
According to sources, the Chairman of Trung Nguyen Group added the first Mercedes-Benz 190 SL convertible to his collection in November 2022. Just five days after taking delivery from a car dealership, the vehicle was registered with the distinctive license plate 51K-525.15.
Mr. Vu was spotted driving the second Mercedes-Benz 190 SL convertible on the roads in November, sporting the license plate 51L-219.37.
Both of these exquisite vehicles share a sleek silver exterior, but differ in their soft top colors. The first car boasts a red and black convertible top, while the second car features a blue soft top and interior, adding a touch of uniqueness to each.
The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is often referred to as the “little brother” of the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, and its presence in Vietnam is extremely limited. It is worth noting that the red interior 190 SL acquired by Mr. Dang Le Nguyen Vu commanded a price of 9.2 billion VND, a testament to the rarity and desirability of this nearly 70-year-old classic.
Mr. Vu’s passion for unique automobiles in Vietnam, especially those bearing the Mercedes-Benz badge, is well-known. He is believed to own over 55 vehicles adorned with the iconic three-pointed star, including an impressive fleet of SLS, GT, and SLK models.
The 190 SL is a luxurious two-door convertible produced by Mercedes-Benz from May 1955 to February 1963. Known internally as the W121, it made its debut as a prototype at the 1954 New York Auto Show and offered a removable hardtop option.
Under the hood, the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is equipped with a naturally aspirated inline-four SOHC engine with a displacement of 1.9 liters. This powerplant is derived from the legendary 300 SL’s engine but features two fewer cylinders.
This engine delivers a maximum output of 104 horsepower and 142 Nm of torque. The car’s powertrain consists of a four-speed manual transmission paired with rear-wheel drive, enabling the 190 SL to reach a top speed of 171 km/h.
A Closer Look at the Classic Mercedes-Benz 190 SL: A Rare Find in Vietnam with Only an Estimated 3 in the Country
The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is a rare classic car and a true gem in the collection of the owner of Trung Nguyen Coffee. This sleek and elegant vehicle is a testament to the enduring appeal of Mercedes-Benz’s iconic design and engineering. With its rich history and stunning good looks, it’s no wonder that this car is a prized possession for any classic car enthusiast.