Description
Mercedes 190E 2.5 Cosworth | 1990
Highlights:
– Rare unrestored example with low mileage (82,000 km)
– Dry-stored from 2003 to 2023 with documented history
– Original Becker Grand Prix radio with manual and working electric aerial
– Recently recommissioned with OEM parts
The seller offers for sale a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Cosworth, finished in its original factory paint with the exception of a repainted body kit now in gloss. Powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine developed in collaboration with Cosworth and mated to a manual transmission, this example represents one of Mercedes’ most notable performance sedans from the late 1980s and early 1990s. Originally delivered to a German owner, it was maintained at authorized Mercedes service points and later relocated to Spain where it remained in dry storage for two decades.
The car was recently recommissioned in France with considerable care. Work completed includes repainting of the wheels (with five-year guarantee), repairs to the rear spoiler and valance, and mechanical servicing.
Inside, the car retains its leather upholstery in good condition. The original Becker Grand Prix cassette stereo remains in place and functional, including the electric aerial. The dashboard, gauges, seats and interior trim remain original and intact.
The car presents well, with only minimal signs of wear expected of a 35-year-old vehicle. Paintwork is largely original, though the body kit now has a gloss finish.
The 190E 2.5-16 Cosworth was developed to compete in Group A touring car racing. Mercedes worked with UK-based engineering firm Cosworth to create a high-revving, durable engine to meet homologation requirements. The result was a 2.5-litre DOHC inline-four with advanced features such as a forged crankshaft and lightweight pistons, producing around 195 hp.
The car’s development also led to improvements in chassis dynamics, including self-leveling rear suspension, wider wheels, and improved aerodynamics via a discreet body kit. Unlike its rivals, Mercedes took a more understated approach in its styling, allowing performance to speak for itself. The Cosworth variant of the 190E was well received for its balance, reliability and daily usability—traits that helped the model build a devoted following.
This particular example’s low mileage, originality, and history make it an appealing choice for collectors seeking an unrestored and usable Cosworth-era car. The manual transmission and performance-tuned chassis still offer an engaging drive by modern standards, while the build quality and engineering reflect Mercedes’ approach to performance in the pre-AMG era.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Dordogne, France.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a UK registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
