1991 MERCEDES-BENZ 190E 2.5-16 COSWORTH

This Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Cosworth is a smart modern classic performance saloon, presented in a timeless colour scheme and benefitting from sympathetic cosmetic and mechanical restoration. It is powered by a 2.5-litre inline-four, producing around 197bhp, which drives the rear wheels via a Getrag dog-leg five-speed manual transmission. The odometer displays 143,089 miles from new.

A high-performance variant of Mercedes’ famously over-engineered W201-series compact saloons, the Cosworth-tuned 190Es were initially intended to homologate the marque’s rally cars, before being redeveloped for use in Group A touring car racing.

Replacing the 2.3-litre cars in 1988, 2.5-litre 16-valve Cosworths such as this also offer greater sophistication when compared to their predecessors, with a taller final gear providing more refined cruising, and double-row timing chains to deliver great durability for the engine. Redesigned seats also helped to increase rear passenger leg room.

First registered on 27 February 1991, this original right-hand drive example’s log book lists just three previous keepers. The car is now being offered for sale by the trade.

The subtle and surprisingly aerodynamic bodywork presents very well, and is free of unsightly scrapes or signs of accident damage. Having been resprayed to a very high standard in recent years, the Astral Silver paintwork is in great shape today, and while there are some small stone chips on the bonnet, this is commensurate with the vehicle’s limited road use since. Overall though, the finish is smooth and even, and stands out among less well cared-for examples.

The badging, trim and light lenses are all very smart, as is the underbody. The front and rear bumpers are also in very good condition, with no scuffs or dings. It rides on a set of 15-inch alloy wheels, which are in superb order.

In the cabin, black leather with perforated centres covers the deep-bolstered front and rear seats. All four have aged well, and while the upholstery is lightly creased and scratched in some areas, there are no rips or tears in the trim. The most notable wear is on the driver’s seat bolster, though this could be easily rejuvenated with some re-connolising.

The finished top layer of the black leather which covers both the steering wheel and gear knob has worn away in places, and the seller notes that there is minor damage to the B-pillar trim cover. There also appears to be a light stain in the headlining above the driver’s seat.

Factory-fitted equipment includes an electric tilt-and-slide sunroof, front and rear electric windows, and a heated rear window. The car’s original stereo has been replaced with a later Panasonic cassette player with aux-in connectivity. There are no warning lights showing on the dashboard and all of the cabin’s buttons and switches function as they should – however the digital clock is no longer working.

Put into long term storage from 2007 to 2016, this 2.5-16 Cosworth remains in excellent mechanical condition. Its last scheduled maintenance was carried out in June 2020 at 142,960 miles. This was a full service, which included replacement of the spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor arm, engine oil and oil filter.

Prior to this – before the car was put into storage – William Street Services, Southampton, rebuilt the engine’s top end in December 2005 at 140,931 miles, as well as renewing the clutch, starter motor, radiator and timing chain.

During the vendor’s three years of ownership, the Bosch fuel metering unit has also been overhauled and recalibrated, the valve clearances were reset, and the rear lower suspension arm bushes were replaced.

Its last MOT test was conducted on 22 June 2020 at 142,960 miles, where it secured a first time pass without a single advisory. The wheels are shod with Dunlop SP Sport 2000 tyres in size 205/55 R15. All four have a good amount of tread remaining, but would benefit from replacement due to their age.

Accompanying the car are all of its original handbooks and service books, a file of invoices, and old MOT certificates. Also included are the complete tool kit, warning triangle and unopened first aid kit.

This Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Cosworth is a rare modern classic, which blends understated styling with strong outright performance and sharp handling. Equipped with the involving five-speed manual transmission, it is described by the vendor as being mechanically and cosmetically superb, and will make a fine addition to any collection.

Summary of service history:

• 26.02.91 - Pre-delivery inspection
• 13.03.91 - 966 miles (First inspection)
• 05.06.91 - 6,987 miles (Service)
• 11.09.91 - 12,991 miles (Service)
• 02.01.92 - 18,699 miles (Service)
• 31.03.92 - 25,047 miles (Service)
• 08.07.92 - 30,372 miles (Service)
• 13.10.92 - 36,295 miles (Service)
• 13.01.93 - 42,158 miles (Service)
• 08.04.93 - 47,139 miles (Service)
• 25.08.93 - 55,046 miles (Service)
• 30.03.94 - 60,528 miles (Service)
• 01.03.95 - 67,182 miles (Service)
• 01.09.95 - 72,615 miles (Service)
• 09.04.96 - 78,144 miles (Service)
• 25.03.97 - 83,194 miles (Service)
• 24.11.97 - 86,243 miles (Service)
• 23.10.98 - 91,277 miles (Service)
• 19.10.99 - 98,406 miles (Service)
• 02.11.01 - 104,200 miles (Service)
• 20.02.03 - 115,088 miles (Service)
• 17.11.03 - 122,477 miles (Service)
• 07.09.04 - 129,690 miles (Service)
• 22.03.05 - 134,215 miles (Service)
• SORN from 2007 to 2016
• 22.06.20 - 142,960 miles (Service)

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.