Lot 213 - 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3 16V Cosworth

This high-performance model was known as the 190E 2.3-16 and debuted at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September 1983, after its reputation had already been established.
Three cars, only slightly cosmetically altered, had set three world records in August at the Nardo testing facility in Italy, recording a combined average speed of 154.06mph over the 50,000km endurance test, and establishing twelve international endurance records. This was later updated to the 190E 2.5 16v in 1988. Apart from the performance increase over the standard 190E, there were other notable changes. The body-kit reduced the drag coefficient to 0.32, one of the lowest CD values on a four-door saloon at the time, whilst also reducing lift at speed. 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 five-speed manual gearbox was unique to the 16-valve and featured a ‘racing’ gear pattern with a ‘dog-leg’ first gear.

This fantastic, rare and desirable righthand drive Mercedes-Benz 2.3 16V Cosworth is presented in dark metallic grey with black leather interior and formed part of a private collection. Its manual five speed dog-leg transmission and unmolested condition make this particular example even more collectable than most other models. The 15 inch alloys have just been powder coated and refurbished to showroom standard and it comes with electric windows, factory bodystyling package, sunroof and power steering. It also comes with its original handbook and various invoices, MoT certificates and a current MoT test certificate which expires in April 2018.