Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5 16v Cosworth, 1989

Chassis No.: WBD2010352F585571

Engine No.: 10299020000891

Registration: F425 UJN

Sold £21,508 | Sold

In 1983, Mercedes-Benz introduced the Cosworth 2.3 16V into their range and the new cars were substantially different from the other 190 models. The body kit reduced the drag coefficient and the steering wheel was smaller than that on other 190s, whilst the fuel tank was enlarged to 70 litres. The Getrag five-speed, manual gearbox was unique to the 16 valve and featured a 'dog-leg' first gear. An enlarged 2.5 litre engine replaced the 2.3 in 1988 and offered double-row timing chains to fix the unreliable single chains on the early 2.3s. The power output was up by 17bhp with a slight increase in torque.

It is debated whether the 2.5 engine was developed and built by Mercedes-Benz or by Cosworth … Interestingly, they were not keen to broadcast the fact that their most sporting saloon car had an engine developed by a British company. The suspension on the 16 valve models is very different from the standard 190 and as well as being lower and stiffer, it has larger anti-roll bars, harder bushes and hydraulic self-levelling suspension on the rear allowing the rear ride-height to remain constant even when the car is fully loaded. Presented in Smoke Silver with contrasting Black leather interior, this example features the desirable manual gearbox.

Recommissioned in 2021 following a decade in storage, this Mercedes-Benz had £6,288 spent on it including a new battery, fuel distributor, clutch master / slave cylinders, spark plugs, injectors and brake calipers etc. In addition, the self-levelling rear suspension was fettled and the engine tuned. Currently showing some 90,500 miles, this impressive 190E boasts the original tool kit, spare wheel, owner’s manual, service booklet (the latter carrying sixteen stamps) and old MOT certificates from 1999-2011 in a large history file.

Offered with an MOT Valid until 09 March 2023 a real wolf in sheep’s clothing. *Interested parties should note that the current registration does not come with the car and that a new one will be issued.

https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=4495&au=78