1990 MERCEDES-BENZ 190E 2.5-16 COSWORTH

This 1990 Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Cosworth is a well-cared for example of the modern classic performance saloon, which is presented in original and unmodified condition. Under the bonnet is the Cosworth-developed 2.5-litre 16-valve four-cylinder engine, which produces around 197bhp and drives the rear wheels via the four-speed automatic transmission. The odometer shows 108,976 miles from new.

A high-performance variant of Mercedes’ famously robust W201-series compact saloon, the 190E Cosworth was originally created to homologate the marque’s rally cars, before being redeveloped for Group A touring car racing. While the first generation of Cosworth-tuned cars boasted a 2.3-litre engine, this was revised in 1987, when the capacity was increased to 2.5-litres, as seen in this original right-hand drive UK-market example. First registered in August 1990, this 190E 2.5-16’s log book shows three previous keepers, but it has been owned by the same private individual from new.

The bodywork is believed to have never suffered from any accident damage, and the panels remain straight and free of any dents. The Astral Silver paintwork is described as being in good condition, and while it has previously been resprayed, this was because the factory-applied finish had become dull with age.

Overall, the paint has a smooth, glossy appearance across the car, with only a few age-related marks and slight bubbling where the driver’s side quarter panel meets the edge of the boot lid. The exterior trim is generally in good order, though there is a missing chrome strip on the front grille, some discolouration of the black plastic bumpers, cracking in the driver’s side door mirror mount.

This 190E still rides on its original 15-inch forged alloy wheels, which are in great shape, with no signs of damage or kerb scratches, and only minor age-related marks to their surfaces.

In the cabin, the black leather upholstery is fully original and unrestored, with the seats’ smooth bolsters and perforated centres wearing their age well. Though there are some small wear marks and scratches, these are commensurate with the car’s mileage, and could be easily improved with a re-connolising treatment.

Elsewhere, the interior surfaces are in very good order, save for some small scratches and scuff marks towards the bottom of the vinyl-covered front driver’s side door card and chips in the lacquer of the wood veneer gear shifter surround.

An updated aftermarket CD player with Bluetooth technology provides a touch of modernity, but the vendor states that the original radio also comes with the car. While it is believed that all of the interior buttons, switches and electrical items work correctly, the seller states that the car’s battery has gone flat due to lack of use.

This 190E Cosworth’s last routine maintenance was carried out at around 106,000 miles, when the car received a health check, and both the engine oil and oil filter were changed. The vendor states that it has been serviced annually.

Its last MOT test was conducted on 30 December 2019 at 108,959 miles, resulting in a first-time pass, with advisories noting wear to the offside front tyre and slight play in the nearside track rod end’s ball joint. The certificate expired on 29 December 2020, and a new test has not been scheduled due to the Covid-19 restrictions, though the car has only covered around 20 miles since the last inspection.

There is no online MOT history covering the period from 2008 to 2018, because the car was being used in Spain throughout this period, though it was never exported.

All four wheels are fitted with matching budget tyres in size 205/55 R15, which the seller states are approximately three years old. While they appear to be in reasonable condition, at least the offside front tyre would benefit from replacement soon.

Famed for its build quality, performance and practicality, the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Cosworth is a rare sports saloon, which is becoming increasingly sought-after by collectors of modern classics. This example is said to have been well maintained throughout its life, and is presented in highly original condition.

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