1989 Mercedes 190 2.5 Evolution

Mercedes-Benz went head to head with BMW when it launched the compact 190 Series in December 1982, expanding its market to include motorists hitherto unable to afford the Stuttgart manufacturer's high-quality products. Competing with BMW in the showroom also meant confronting them on the racetrack in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) touring car championship, and with that in mind Mercedes-Benz produced limited-edition 'homologation specials' incorporating a host of competition-orientated features. The first of these, the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution, debuted at the Geneva Auto Show in March 1989. The 'Evo 1', as it came to be known, featured upgraded brakes and suspension, a new spoiler and wider wheel arches, while the engine, although of the same capacity and approximately the same power output as the stock 2.5-16, had a shorter stroke (and wider bore) enabling it to rev higher in race tune. Only 502 examples of the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution model were produced for DTM homologation purposes.

Limited edition 'homologation special' Evolution I

Delivered new to Germany

92,500kms

This rare homologation special was first delivered to Germany where it remained until 2008 in the hands of two local owners before our Danish vendor acquired it in 2008. The car is currently showing 92,480kms and most of this mileage was covered by its first owner, with the remaining two owners keeping the car as part of their private collections and consequently the car has hardly been used. However, it has had a full service and inspection recently to ensure it's in good health for the next owner. Currently unregistered, and ready for the new owner whereever he maybe, to register and use the car once again.

Fast becoming one of the most collectable of modern classics, this is a great chance to own a piece of Mercedes- Benz history with an unmistakable racing pedigree.