Description
Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 | 1989
Highlights:
– 2.5-litre 16-valve four-cylinder engine, petrol, 4-speed automatic transmission
– Engine professionally overhauled, 600 km since overhaul
– 316000 km on the odometer
– Original black leather interior with electric memory driver’s seat
– Electric sunroof
The seller offers for sale this 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16, powered by a 2.5-litre 16-valve four-cylinder engine, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The car is finished in smoke silver metallic with the distinctive 2.5-16 aerodynamic body kit, including the deeper front spoiler, side skirts and the characteristic rear spoiler on the boot lid, and it rides on the model’s signature 15-hole alloy wheels. The odometer reads 316000 km, while the engine has been professionally overhauled at a cost of EUR 9,000 and has covered only 600 km since. The car is further equipped with four new tyres, a new battery fitted in 2025, an electric sunroof and the self-levelling rear suspension that was standard on the 16-valve models.
The exterior was repainted many years ago and presents with only minimal signs of wear. Inside, the original black leather interior remains unrestored and presents in good condition, with only two small areas where the stitching is coming loose. The sporting cabin features supportive front sports seats, including an electric driver’s seat with memory function, a sculpted rear seat, the three additional auxiliary gauges in the centre console and the leather-rimmed sports steering wheel. The car has no non-standard technical modifications.
The Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201) was launched in December 1982 as the brand’s new compact saloon and quickly became a great success. To prove the qualities of the new platform, Mercedes-Benz developed a high-performance 16-valve version with a cylinder head developed together with Cosworth. The 190 E 2.3-16 made headlines in 1983 by setting three world endurance records at Nardò, and the model was used for the famous one-make race that opened the new Nürburgring in 1984, won by a young Ayrton Senna. In 1988 the 2.3-16 was succeeded by the 190 E 2.5-16, with a larger 2,498 cc engine and a stronger double-row timing chain. The 2.5-16 also formed the basis for the Evolution models that dominated German touring car racing and won the DTM championship.
The 16-valve engine is the jewel of this car: a free-revving twin-camshaft four-cylinder producing around 200 hp depending on specification, combined with sharp handling, a sporting exhaust note and everyday usability. The subtle body kit, the rear spoiler and the low stance give the 2.5-16 a purposeful look without losing the understated elegance of the W201.
Today the 190 E 2.5-16 is recognised as one of the great performance saloons of the 1980s and a true modern classic with strong motorsport credentials. With its recently overhauled engine, original interior and attractive specification, this example is a fine opportunity for enthusiasts looking to enjoy a legendary 16-valve Mercedes-Benz.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
4 — Very Good. Clean with minimal wear; might need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Condition of the interior
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
Technical condition
4 — Very Good. Mechanically solid, with potential for minor servicing.
Overall condition
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road 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.
