1989 Mercedes Benz 190E 2.5-16v Cosworth

In 1983, Mercedes introduced the Cosworth 2.3-16 into their range and the new 16-valve cars were substantially different from the other 190 models. The body kit reduced the drag coefficient to 0.32, the steering ratio was quicker and the steering wheel smaller than that on other 190s, whilst the fuel tank was enlarged from 55 to 70 L. The Getrag 5-speed manual gearbox was unique to the 16-valve and featured a 'dog-leg' first gear.

An enlarged 2.5-litre engine replaced the 2.3 in 1988 and offered double-row timing chains to fix the unreliable single chains oh the early 2.3s. Power output was up by 17bhp with a slight increase in torque.

The suspension on 16-valve models is very different from the standard 190 and, as well as being lower and stiffer, it has quicker dampers, larger anti-roll bars, harder bushes and hydraulic self-levelling suspension on the rear, allowing the rear ride-height to remain constant even when the car is fully loaded.

Our vendor acquired this right-hand drive, UK supplied, MB 190E 2.5-16v Cosworth in 1992 when it was about three years old (originally registered 26/02/1989) and had been enjoyed by two previous owners. He used it on a regular basis until around 2005 when, although well maintained, the little Mercedes had begun to look a bit tired and sorry for itself. He had really enjoyed the car and was in a bit of a quandary as to whether to sell it and buy another, tidy the car and sell it then, or carry out a full renovation. After much deliberation, the latter course of action won the day and a full 'nut and bolt' restoration was decided upon although it wasn't to be until March 2008 that the ball started rolling.

Having searched fruitlessly in the UK to find a single specialist that could carry out every single aspect of the cars return to its sparkling best, our vendor eventually found a company in Germany that seemed happy and confident about undertaking the entire project. That company was Team Stadler Motorsport from Hannoversch Munden who specialise in Mercedes from the eighties and nineties and particularly the 190 Series (W201) The new engine was supplied and fitted by the well-known Merparts Ltd. from Port Glasgow in Scotland.

The story of the next few years and the details of this superb, no expense spared, total restoration is far too long to list here, however, anyone interested in this car might enjoy the extensive and lengthy account at:

detailingworld.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=113980

The car was eventually finished in 2012 and we understand that it has covered less than 1,000 miles since then. The engine is effectively just run-in, and the coachwork, interior and mechanics are all post-restoration plus 1,000 miles. This car is fully loaded and comes with all the optional extras available at that time. The entertainment system allows for a hands-free phone, full Flat-Screen Sat nav, TV, DVD, CD, rear-view camera and much more.The recorded mileage is known to be correct, but undocumented, and for the same reason, no service documents exist, however, there are SORN Documents and a V5 with the car and it will be freshly MOT'd at the time of the sale. When you look at the massive quantity of new parts fitted to this car and the all-encompassing nature of the rebuild, then its history is a touch academic.

This delightful Cosworth Mercedes has been a complete 'labour of love' for its vendor and Silverstone Auctions welcome any inspection.