The Birth of a Motorsport Icon… In the early 1980s, Mercedes-Benz made a triumphant return to motorsport with the introduction of the 190 E 2.3-16.
Based on the compact 190 series, this sporty sedan featured a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, enhanced by a 16-valve DOHC cylinder head co-developed with Cosworth.
With 185 horsepower, it quickly established itself as a formidable competitor on the racetrack.
Evolution and Refinement
The 190 E 2.3-16 made its DTM debut in 1986 and continued to evolve over the years. To keep pace with rival BMW, Mercedes increased the engine displacement to 2.5 liters in 1988, boosting power to 200 horsepower. This iteration, known as the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution, was produced in limited numbers.
The Evolution II: A Motorsport Masterpiece
The pinnacle of the 190 E series, the Evolution II, arrived in the early 1990s. This high-performance sedan featured dramatic styling changes, including flared wheel arches to accommodate wider tires and a large rear spoiler.
Under the hood, the 2.5-liter engine was further refined, producing 235 horsepower in its road-going version and up to 330 horsepower in race-spec form.
A Limited-Production Legend
With its aggressive styling, potent engine, and advanced suspension, the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II quickly became a legend in motorsport circles. However, due to changes in motorsport regulations, production was limited to approximately 500 units. Today, the Evolution II is highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, and its value continues to rise.
