For enthusiasts and collectors seeking a piece of automotive history, the Mercedes 190e Evolution 2 For Sale represents a rare opportunity. This 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II, chassis number 473 of just 502 ever produced, is a genuine homologation special built for the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM). Originally sold in Germany in July 1990, this remarkable vehicle has journeyed through Portugal, Greece, and the Netherlands before being imported to the United States. Previously featured on Bring a Trailer in 2015, it was acquired by the current dealer and brought to the US in March 2020. With a mere 18k kilometers (approximately 11k miles) on the odometer, this Evolution II is presented in stunning Blue-Black Metallic over a black leather interior and is accompanied by its original books, tools, and import documentation, along with a clean Florida title.
The Mercedes 190E Evolution II: Born from Racing Rivalry
The Mercedes-Benz 190E Evolution models were direct responses to BMW’s formidable M3 Sport Evolution. Unveiled at the 1990 Geneva Motor Show, the Evolution II variant took the performance and visual aggression to a new level. It boasted increased power and a dramatically revised aerodynamic package compared to the initial Evolution model. The Evolution II’s distinctive bodywork included more pronounced fender flares, a rear window spoiler, and a significantly larger, adjustable rear wing – all designed to enhance downforce and stability at high speeds on the track.
Exterior Features and Production Details of this 190E Evo II
Of the limited 502 Evolution II examples manufactured to meet DTM homologation rules, this car is one of the 500 finished in the iconic Blauschwarz Metallic (Blue-Black Metallic, paint code 199). The exterior showcases a power sunroof, a roof-mounted antenna, a front splitter, and a polished grille surround, all contributing to its distinctive and aggressive aesthetic. The paint meter readings, available in the gallery, further attest to the car’s well-preserved condition.
Wheels, Brakes and Suspension: Engineered for Performance
This Mercedes 190E Evo II rides on 17-inch six-spoke alloy wheels, fitted with 245/40 Michelin Pilot Sport tires from 2003. A matching spare wheel with a Dunlop tire is located in the trunk. Compared to the standard 2.5-16 model, the Evolution II featured a lower ride height, a wider track for improved handling, and larger brakes to provide enhanced stopping power, crucial for both racing and spirited road driving.
Inside the Cabin: Race-Inspired Luxury
The cabin is appointed with heated and heavily bolstered Recaro front seats upholstered in Anthracite leather, complemented by matching door panels, black carpeting, and Zebrano wood trim on the center console. Despite its racing pedigree, the interior offers comfort and convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, a Becker Grand Prix cassette stereo, an outside temperature gauge, a digital clock, and a floor-mounted fire extinguisher, blending performance with everyday usability.
Driver-Focused Cockpit and Unique Details
The leather-wrapped four-spoke steering wheel frames VDO instruments, including a 260-km/h speedometer and a 9k-rpm tachometer, along with gauges for coolant temperature, fuel level, oil pressure, and fuel economy. Additional gauges for oil temperature and voltage are centrally mounted. The six-digit odometer displays the low mileage of 18k kilometers (approximately 11k miles). The gear shift knob, displaying the dogleg shift pattern, also denotes this car as #473 of the Evolution II series, highlighting its exclusivity.
Cosworth-Engineered Power and Performance
Under the hood lies a 2.5-liter DOHC inline-four engine developed by Cosworth. Specifically for the Evolution II, this engine features a shorter stroke and larger bore compared to the standard 2.5-16 model. Furthermore, Evolution II examples were factory-equipped with the AMG PowerPack, which included enhancements such as a revised throttle body, air intake, camshafts, engine management programming, and a performance exhaust system. This resulted in a factory-rated output of 232 horsepower, delivering thrilling performance.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a Getrag five-speed manual gearbox with a dogleg first gear and a limited-slip differential, providing an engaging and driver-centric experience. The Carfax report indicates two entries in Florida since 2020, confirming its recent US history. This Mercedes 190E Evolution 2 for sale is a rare gem, offering a unique blend of motorsport heritage, low mileage, and exceptional condition, making it a highly desirable acquisition for any serious collector or enthusiast.