Watch A Mercedes 190SL and Petrolicious Make Magic
A perfect how-to on modifying vintage cars with class and passion.
There’s a pretty big stigma around taking something old and beautiful like a 190SL and modifying it. These kinds of cars are special in so many ways that it just feels blasphemous to change them. But then someone like Michael Potiker comes along and reminds us that a key aspect of our passion is customization and modification.
When Patrick found himself with a 190 in dire need of repairs and restoration, he decided to do something different with it. Something a little obtuse, but ultimately wonderful. Rather than a traditional restoration, Patrick turned his car into a period correct modified racer. During research he discovered that Mercedes once offered a full Rennsport kit for the 190, so he set off to try and replicate it. Wired up lights, cut down doors, and a minimal windshield are coupled with some racing numbers. Patrick refers to it is a “1950s cosplay time machine.”
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Aside from the visual tweaks, very little is changed on this car. Patrick bought it with a period correct Weber carb upgrade installed, and he modernized the suspension. Beyond that, he left the gearbox and engine alone.
The final package is one that defies any true description. It’s an unrivaled combination of southern California charm, vintage machismo, and nostalgic racing glory. We can’t take our eyes off it. It might have something to do with Petrolicious’ classy style and exquisite filmmaking, but we’ve never seen a more pleasing 190SL in all our years.
You owe it to yourself to spend a few minutes of your day gazing at this marvelous car, and listening to its owner speak about it like it might be one of his own children.
Drive tastefully, indeed.
