1986 MERCEDES-BENZ 190E 2.3-16 COSWORTH

This Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth is a smart example of the compact German homologation performance saloon. Under the bonnet lies a 2.3-litre engine with the bespoke DOHC 16-valve Cosworth cylinder head, producing around 183bhp and 174lb-ft of torque. This power is transferred to the rear wheels via a ‘dog-leg’ five speed manual transmission. The odometer reads 163,370 miles from new.

First registered on 21 May 1986, this example’s most recent private owner had the car for nearly two-and-a-half years, and it is now offered for sale by the trade. It is reported to remain in unrestored condition throughout, and is supplied with its original handbooks, four original keys, and even the original number plates and rear window sticker from supplying dealer Hughes of Beaconsfield.

Finished in the distinctive shade of Smoke Silver metallic, the handsome bodywork of the 190E is in good order, with no sign of any prior damage. During the seller’s tenure, the bonnet and front wings have been resprayed to eliminate stone chips, while both front wings are said to be free of rust. It is believed that the car has been the subject of a full respray in the past, though there is no paperwork to support this.

A pin-sized chip on the passenger wing is visible, as is a chip on the rear passenger side quarter panel. Minor scuffing is visible where the rear bumper meets the bodykit on both sides, but overall the paintwork on this example is in pleasing condition. Riding on its original flat-face 15-inch alloy wheels, these are free of kerbing marks.

Inside, the half-cloth original interior of the Mercedes shows only minor signs of patina. The seats retain their shape and are free of any major wear or discolouration, with just some slight creasing on the bases and bolsters. This example is specified with a sunroof, an electric radio antenna, and electric windows all round, which remain in full working order.

Both the gear knob and steering wheel show signs of wear commensurate with the mileage, and minor cracking is visible on the dashboard. The driver’s side rear door card has slight damage to the top edge. The vendor states that everything is in full working order, save for the lap timer installed below the stereo. No warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard.

The most recent service was carried out at around 163,300 miles in January 2021, by Durling Specialist Cars of Doncaster. This comprised of replacement OEM air, fuel and oil filters, and new Mobil engine oil. A spare set of filters will be supplied with the vehicle.

In recent years, the Mercedes has also had a new fuel pump, fuel level sensor and blower motor fitted. The clutch has also been replaced along with a propshaft bearing and gear linkage. A good folder of invoices accompanies the car, totalling around £4,500 from various specialists.

The most recent MOT test was on 5 November 2020 at 163,298 miles. This was a first-time pass with zero advisories, with an identical result also recorded at its last MOT test in 2018.

Fitted with matching Yokohama tyres for the road wheels, these are described as ‘nearly new’ and have ample tread remaining. The spare wheel is fitted with an original Pirelli P600 tyre, which highlights the car’s originality, but would be unsuitable for use on the road due to age.

This Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Cosworth is a well-presented, well-maintained and well-enjoyed example of a landmark performance saloon. Kept in fine mechanical condition and benefiting from recent cosmetic attention, it would make a shrewd acquisition for a collector and an enjoyable driver’s car for 2021 and beyond.

Summary of service history:

• 09/07/86 912 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 05/02/87 6,342 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 11/08/87 12,155 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 13/04/88 19,100 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 04/01/89 25,005 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 17/05/89 31,400 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 20/02/90 37,060 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 27/11/90 43,029 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 06/03/91 45,952 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 24/11/94 64,407 miles - Oakley Garage
• 09/04/96 72,909 miles - Mercedes Pentagon
• 10/03/97 80,183 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 27/11/97 88,110 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 19/11/98 95,836 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 17/11/99 102,683 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 31/10/00 108,554 miles - Hughes of Beaconsfield
• 10/03/05 120,364 miles - AJ Robinson Mercedes specialist
• During this interim period it was maintained by Mercedes-Benz specialist TM Motors, with around £4,500 worth of receipts, however the book has not been stamped
• 01/2021 163,300 miles – Durling Specialist Cars

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