1992 Mercedes-Benz 190 2.5-16v Cosworth RHD

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-litres. 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 on the early 2.3s with power output up by 17bhp with a significant 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.

Offered for sale at Bruce Greetham Classic Benz is this superbly presented example of MB’s late-eighties, DTM-inspired performance saloon. It’s a late production model dating from 1992, fitted with the desirable ‘dog-leg’ gearbox and is finished in Blue/Black (199), a colour that really suits the car’s slightly aggressive, competition-focussed looks. The paintwork is in beautiful condition with occasional paint correction carried out over the years. From the history file we can see that he underbody has had welding carried out on the rear sill to floor section, a common area on this model. The car’s looks are enhanced by the fitment of upgraded 16-inch wheels, in the same style as the original 15-inch, but they do fill the arches better and offer a more intuitive feel on the road. The originals have been refurbished and will be supplied with the car in the interests of originality.
The black leather interior sports the usual bucket-style seats and benefits from recently serviced air conditioning. All controls work as intended including the electric seats but the lower-centre gauge, originally a stopwatch, has been changed although could easily be reinstated once located.

A new windscreen has been fitted with a genuine MB replacement and the exhaust has had a stainless-steel system fitted so no issues in the future there.  Prior to a fresh MOT in August, the Cosworth has just gone through a full fluids/filter service including the rear axle oil and only genuine parts were used.The history file is over an inch thick and includes details of all its previous owners, service and maintenance records and invoices, books, manuals, and spare keys.

A recent 1,700 mile road trip around the Netherlands into Germany was problem free and attracted much attention as these are now rare cars, especially in this condition.Now fully detailed, inside and out, this 190 2.5-16v Cosworth is very special and we encourage you to come and have a look and perhaps drive the car. I am out and about a lot currently, so it would be best to make an appointment.