Owner: Lew Bednarczuk
Originally delivered new to an owner in Germany, this 190SL (No. 39) was completed in June 1955, making it one of the earliest 190SLs to leave the factory. There were only seven original 190SLRs built by Mercedes-Benz for racing and none survived.
A limited number of conversion parts were also produced and this project started when those OEM parts were found. No. 39 was upgraded to SLR specs by Mercedes-Benz Classic Center, which converted three 190SLs into 190SLRs. This vehicle now features a variety of components from the race-specification kit available in-period. The engine compartment was restored to period-correct finish and function, while the interior is finished in a combination of Crème leather and 300 SL red tartan gabardine cloth.
One of the other two resides in the Mercedes-Benz museum in Germany and the third is in
a private collection in Europe.