Used car buying guide: Mercedes 190E Cosworth

In 1988, Mercedes unveiled a new version, the 2.5. It came with - you guessed it - a 2.5-litre engine, which made 201bhp and 181lb ft. This version of the Cosworth completed in various championships before it was eventually entered into the DTM, which meant a new road-going version was required. 

And so the legendary 2.5-16 EVO I limited edition was born. Only 502 ever made it to public roads, all LHD. 

As brilliant as they were, the 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 had drawbacks. They were notorious for high running costs and owners had to be vigilant about regular maintenance or pay the consequences. 

And while the bodykit looked great, it was prone to cracking and fading over time, leading to costly repairs. 

But such wiggly thoughts vaporise the moment you drive a 190E 2.3-16 or 2.5-16 as it was intended to be driven. These cars are respected classes for good reason. They deliver strong performance, precise handling and a sense of fit-for-purpose high-quality engineering mixed with luxurious features and a sleek yet purposeful appearance. 

Yes, they have their quirks and it requires commitment to maintain them properly, but those willing to make the investment will find a throughly rewarding driving experience. 

If you ever get the chance to drive or own one, don’t hesitate. You won’t be disappointed. 

What we said then

4 January 1989: “The 2.5’s substantially shorter in-gear times reflect the power gain over the 2.3, setting it hot on the heels of rivals like the BMW M3 and Audi Quattro. Low-end torque is improved, but the smooth, free-revving engine still works best over 4000rpm. Brakes are powerful. It’s highly responsive but not nervous. The car has extraordinary chassis balance inherited from the 2.3. The limits of grip are high and progressive oversteer is easily countered. Body control is good and the ride never agitated.”

An owner’s view

“Owning a 190E 2.0 introduced me to the world of Cosworth. I stumbled upon a 2.5-16 online: full black leather interior, Blue Black paintwork, slightly lowered with 18in AMG wheels, Remus stainless steel exhaust and 140,000 miles on the clock. Despite its scruffy appearance, I didn’t hesitate to shake hands at the asking price. I have thoroughly enjoyed driving the car ever since. 

“I have subsequently replaced the front struts, discs, calipers, pads, plugs, distributor cap, rotor arm and drive belt, as well as all the engine air hoses. These replacements have vastly improved the engine, which now runs strong and sweetly. I also replaced the ‘Over Voltage’ relay, which cured the annoying ASD light that was constantly showing. 

“The gearbox was a significant problem, with shifts up or down to third gear being extremely difficult. The only solution was to spend £1200 on a rebuild, but it was worth it because the gearchange is now slick.”

Buyer beware

Engine: It’s important to thoroughly check the fuel pump for leaks. Additionally, the engine’s idle should be around 900-1000rpm, with a slight rattle known as ‘cam clutter’ being a common occurrence. However, excessive rattling on start-up could indicate a need for timing chain replacement. It’s also important to ensure that the engine runs smoothly all the way up to the redline, with no hesitations or issues. If the car is not idling correctly, vacuum leaks in the rubber hoses around the injection system could be a potential cause. These issues can be addressed through regular maintenance and careful monitoring of the engine’s performance. 

Steering: There are no common problems reported with the steering, although some owners say they have experience of issues with the power steering pump. 

Brakes: Brake fluid leaks are common, often manifesting as a spongy brake pedal. 

Suspension: The 190E is known for its sturdy chassis, but beware of corrosion. Keep an eye out for frame damage from accidents, too. The shock absorbers can leak, often resulting in a rather bumpy ride. Also check the ball joints, which often wear out and fail, causing the front suspension to collapse.

Interior: The screen on the lap timer can bleed and the door cards tend to lift away at the top. Check the visor area and the vinyl roof panel for dampness or discolouration. The draining system on these cars makes it easy for water to leak down the back of the A-pillar. 

Also worth knowing 

Mercedes initially planned to produce only 5000 190E 2.3-16s, but the final number was 19,487. This makes the 2.5 far more exclusive, with 5743 built in total. However, it’s actually the 2.3 that is rarer in RHD form, with just 600 leaving the factory. The 2.3 and the 2.5 came with the option of luxuries such as air-con, heated seats, a radio (not a given in the 1980s) and electrically operated seats. Generally, the 2.5s were better specced than the 2.3s, with the last of the 2.5s being sold for just under the £40,000 mark when new.