1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E Cosworth 2.5-16

*** Interested parties should note, this vehicle was subject to a CAT S insurance loss in 10/2023 ***

Highlights

Desirable right-hand drive, UK-supplied example
Commendably original throughout
Presented in very good overall condition
Offered with a valid MOT
Numerous invoices accompany the car

The Appeal

While today it’s remembered for its legendary DTM exploits, the 190 Cosworth was never originally intended for touring car competition. Mercedes-Benz believed that their compact 190 saloon, with its multi-link rear suspension, would be well-suited to take on the the BDA Ford Escorts and the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus. Cosworth was therefore tasked with developing a 16-valve cylinder head and Mercedes began the development of its roadgoing homologation cars.

It was all going swimmingly. But then the Quattro arrived and changed everything.

Now that four-wheel drive had changed the face of rallying more or less overnight, Mercedes-Benz abandoned hopes of winning with a rear-wheel drive 190 and instead turned to Group A touring car. This last-ditch attempt not to waste the efforts an expensive racing programme proved a masterstroke, and the 190 Cosworth would go on to be one of the most successful competition cars of its era.

A young Ayrton Senna piloted his Cosworth to a glorious DTM victory in 1984, while roadgoing homologation specials were sported by Stirling Moss, John Surtees, James Hunt, Niki Lauda, Keke Rosberg, Jacques Laffite, Alain Prost and many more…

This 190E 2.5-16 is one of these homologation cars, supplied new to the UK in August 1989. It’s commendably original throughout and while there’s room for improvement in a few areas, this car represents an awesome opportunity for DTM enthusiasts.

The History and Paperwork

Right-hand drive UK-supplied example
Seventeen former registered keepers
Numerous recent invoices for parts and services
V5C present
MOT valid until 25th July 2024

The Condition

Blue-Black 19UU metallic paintwork
Anthracite 271 leather upholstery
Straight and solid original bodywork with smart black paintwork
The doors appear to fit well and the panels align nicely
There are some small scratches and paint imperfections visible upon close inspection, but nothing especially noteworthy
16” Monoblock alloy wheels with light signs of wear
The badging, glass, light lenses and trims present well
All appears in reasonable condition underneath
Slight surface corrosion to the inside of the spare wheel well
Commendably original black interior
Light patina is evident to the upholstery, but nothing that appears excessive
Some deterioration to the Zebrano veneers
Optioned with an electrically adjustable driver’s seat

The Mechanics

2,497 cc 16-valve twin-came l4 developed by Cosworth
Four-speed automatic gearbox
Stainless steel exhaust system
Limited-slip differential
All looks original and presents nicely under the bonnet
We’re not informed of any apparent mechanical issues or untoward noises
Offered with a valid MOT

BEFORE YOU BUY

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