David Gandy's 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190SL (W121)
Description
This striking Mercedes-Benz W121 190SL is an example of one of the finest restorations possible and one of the most notably documented projects completed by the expert Hilton & Moss in-house restoration team.
Commissioned by David Gandy to build his perfect 190SL and realise his vision, this W121 received a full nut and bolt restoration to a bespoke, yet authentic specification.
The starting point was the best restoration ‘donor’ car possible. The chosen car being an incredibly original, well cared for 1960 UK RHD 190SL that was owned personally by Mr R.H Johnson since 1970 – the founder of the Mercedes-Benz Club UK – who purchased the car for just £795. The original Mercedes-Benz data card confirms the cars original colourway of Fire Engine Red (DB-534 Feuerrot) with a cream interior. Most notably this rare RHD 190SL was fitted with a period Webasto sunroof, set into the late style ‘wrap around’ removable hardtop roof.
This W121 was first taken back to ‘bare metal’ as stage one of the comprehensive Hilton & Moss body restoration process. Retaining originality and authenticity throughout the project was a focus point and thus genuine Mercedes-Benz panels and techniques were used by our panel crafters before the application of the finest German Glasurit paint and body materials. Although not the cars original colour, a period scheme was chosen by David Gandy, Anthracite Grey Metallic Clear Coat paired with a mid-red leather interior. This timeless colourway has become synonymous with Hilton & Moss restorations combining modern and contemporary trends.
The car’s running gear was carefully dismantled and rebuilt. All of the perishable rubbers were renewed, the differential and gearbox rebuilt and all of the assembly fixings were passivated correctly to authentic Mercedes-Benz standards. The original engine was systematically rebuilt retaining the original SOLEX carburettors and preserving the cars provenance. The entire restoration was completed in-house at Hilton & Moss from the interior trim work to machining, allowing for strict quality control of every aspect of the project and the very finest finished motorcar.
Our Mercedes-Benz restorations are world renowned and SFY 100 completed for David Gandy was a perfect example of this. Winning multiple Concours prizes and being featured on ‘the Classic Car Show’ only further cements this cars provenance.