The Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II Is A Very Rare, And Desirable, Beast

Just 500 examples of the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II were ever manufactured, and a stunning example is currently up for sale through Gooding & Company.

While the regular 190-series model of the day wasn’t all that impressive, Mercedes-Benz first transformed it into a driver-focused sports sedan with the launch of the 190E 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 models with beefed-up engines and a focus on performance. When the German automaker decided to take the 190E racing in the DTM championship, it built the Evolution I and then the Evolution II in order to receive homologation.

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Powering the 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II in question is a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder complete with an AMG PowerPack that results in an impressive 232 hp at 7,200 rpm and 181 lb-ft (245 Nm) of torque at 5,000 rpm from the factory. The car also comes standard with adjustable suspension and sports a striking bodykit that doesn’t only reduce drag but also adds downforce.

This particular Evolution II, number 105, was delivered new to Japan before it was purchased from a German dealer by its current owners in 2015. It has just 10,030 km (6,232 miles) on the clock, and in February 2020 was sent to the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in California where it received a comprehensive service. It has clearly been very well cared for and shows few signs of wear.

The listing reveals a sales estimate between $225,000 and $275,000. At the time of writing, and with just under three days left in the auction, it has attracted a highest bid of $180,000.