For enthusiasts and collectors seeking a rare piece of motorsport history, the Mercedes 190e Evo For Sale represents an exceptional opportunity. This 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II, chassis number #473 of just 502 ever produced, is a true homologation special, born from the fiery competition of the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM). Originally delivered by Autohaus Santelmann in Germany in July 1990, this particular model boasts a fascinating international journey, having graced roads in Portugal, Greece, and the Netherlands before arriving in the United States in March 2020. Featured previously on Bring a Trailer (BaT) in 2015, this meticulously maintained Evo II is now available for acquisition, presenting a unique chance to own a legend.
The Mercedes-Benz 190E Evolution models were conceived as a direct response to BMW’s formidable M3 Sport Evolution. The Evolution II, unveiled at the 1990 Geneva Motor Show, took the performance and visual aggression to a new level. Compared to the Evo I, the Evolution II showcased enhanced power and a dramatically revised aerodynamic package. This included more pronounced fender flares to accommodate wider wheels and tires, a distinctive rear window spoiler, and a larger, adjustable rear wing, all contributing to improved downforce and handling at high speeds, crucial for DTM competition.
Production of the Evolution II was strictly limited to just 502 units to meet DTM homologation regulations. Excluding the final two examples, all Evo IIs, including this offering, were finished in the striking Blauschwarz Metallic (Blue-Black Metallic, paint code 199). Further exterior highlights of this model include a power sunroof, a roof-mounted antenna, a sporty front splitter, and a polished grille surround, enhancing its aggressive yet refined aesthetic.
This Mercedes 190E Evo for sale rides on iconic 17-inch six-spoke alloy wheels, fitted with 245/40 Michelin Pilot Sport tires. The Evolution II chassis was engineered with a lower ride height, a wider track for improved stability, and significantly larger brakes compared to the standard 2.5-16 model, ensuring exceptional handling and stopping power.
Inside, the cabin is equipped with heated and deeply bolstered Recaro front seats, upholstered in Anthracite leather, complemented by matching door panels, black carpeting, and elegant Zebrano wood trim on the center console. Comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, power windows, a classic Becker Grand Prix cassette stereo, an outside temperature gauge, a digital clock, and a period-correct floor-mounted fire extinguisher.
The driver is faced with a leather-wrapped four-spoke steering wheel, framing VDO instrumentation including a 260-km/h speedometer and a 9k-rpm tachometer, alongside gauges for coolant temperature, fuel level, oil pressure, and fuel economy. Additional gauges for oil temperature and voltage are centrally mounted, keeping the driver informed of vital engine parameters. The six-digit odometer indicates a remarkably low 18k kilometers (~11k miles).
A unique detail, the shift knob proudly displays the dogleg shift pattern of the five-speed manual transmission and denotes this car as #473 of the exclusive Evolution II series, highlighting its rarity and collectability.
Under the hood lies the heart of this performance machine: a 2.5-liter DOHC inline-four engine, meticulously developed by Cosworth. Evolution II models benefited from the AMG PowerPack, which enhanced performance through modifications to the throttle body, air intake, camshafts, engine management programming, and exhaust system. Factory rated output was an impressive 232 horsepower, delivering thrilling performance.
Power is channeled to the rear wheels via a Getrag five-speed manual gearbox with a racing-inspired dogleg first gear and a limited-slip differential, ensuring optimal traction and driver engagement. This Mercedes 190E Evo for sale is accompanied by factory books, tools, and import documentation, further solidifying its provenance. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to own a genuine piece of Mercedes-Benz and DTM history.
