1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II Sedan

Mercedes-Benz unveiled the latest iteration of their DTM challenger, the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II, at the Geneva Motor Show in 1990. It retained its predecessor's 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine and Cosworth Engineering 16-valve twin-cam cylinder heads, but now came standard with the previously optional AMG Power Pack which added a large-diameter throttle body, a high-performance fuel management system, an improved intake, and hotter cams. In street guise, output was 235 horsepower while the race cars could produce over 350 hp. Larger Brembo four-piston brakes and stiffer suspension were fitted to cope with the increase in power and the improved aerodynamics.

Visually, the Evo I and Evo II are very different thanks to the aero kit on the latter which added the largest adjustable rear wing ever fitted on a Mercedes sedan. There were bulging fender flares, lengthened skirts and rear apron, and a larger front air dam.

A total of 502 units of the road-going 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II were produced for Group A homologation.

Early teething issues were remedied during the 1990 season, leading to Mercedes-Benz's inaugural DTM manufacturer's trophy in 1991, followed by both the driver's and manufacturer's titles in 1992.

This particular example is the 112th of 502 examples produced and is finished in Blauschwarz Metallic over an optional Anthracite leather upholstery. Optional amenities include an electric sliding sunroof, factory air conditioning, heated front seats, rear-mounted loudspeakers, and an external temperature gauge.

This Mercedes was initially registered on January 7, 1990. By 2020, it resided in the United Kingdom with owner Jay Kay. It was imported to the United States in 2023 and currently has just over 48,500 kilometers on the odometer.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2024