Overview

This 1989 Mercedes Benz 190E 2.5 16 finished in Black with matching Black leather interior represents a fantastic opportunity to secure a true motorsport derived performance Mercedes. Featuring a manual gearbox and left hand drive configuration, this example delivers the analogue driving experience that made these cars famous.

Developed in collaboration with Cosworth, the 190E 16 valve cars were created specifically for motorsport homologation. Mercedes originally commissioned Cosworth to develop a high performance 16 valve cylinder head for the 190E platform, forming the foundation for the 2.3 16 and later the more powerful 2.5 16 models.  

This development directly led to Mercedes entering the German Touring Car Championship, creating one of the most iconic rivalries of the late 1980s and early 1990s between Mercedes 190E and BMW E30 M3.  

These cars represent the golden era of touring car racing and are now becoming increasingly collectible.

Chassis Number

• WDB2010351F619638

Auction Grade

• Overall Grade 3.5
• Interior Grade C

Mileage

• 114,460 km
• 71,122 miles

Engine and Drivetrain

• 2500cc Cosworth developed 16 valve engine
• Manual transmission
• Rear wheel drive

Key Features

• Black exterior
• Black leather interior
• Manual gearbox
• Left hand drive
• Sunroof
• Cosworth developed engine

Touring Car Heritage

The 190E 2.5 16 is a direct result of touring car racing in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Mercedes built the 16 valve models specifically to compete in DTM and Group A racing, where they competed against the BMW M3 and Ford Sierra RS Cosworth.

This era is widely regarded as one of the greatest periods in touring car history, and the 190E played a central role. The later Evolution models eventually led Mercedes to championship success in the early 1990s, cementing the 190E as a true motorsport icon.  

Condition Overview

• Grade 3.5
• Interior Grade C

Age related wear consistent with mileage and age

Inspector Notes

• Steering wheel wear
• Seat wear and cracking
• Trim wear and deterioration
• Rear spoiler paint wear
• Underbody surface rust
• Wheel scratches and corrosion
• Various scratches and dents

Auction sheet also notes odometer change. Buyers should consider this when placing bids.

Auction Information

Auction Location

Tokyo

Auction Date

2 April 2026

Bidding Deadline

1 April 2026 at 9pm GMT

Auction Start Price

£15,000

Autoselecta Estimated Sale Price

£25,000 to £30,000

This represents a strong entry level opportunity into Cosworth developed Mercedes ownership.

Autoselecta Sourcing Service

• Worldwide sourcing available
• Full import and delivery service
• Access to rare classics
• Avoid dealer markup

Summary

A Cosworth developed Mercedes 190E 2.5 16 with manual gearbox, touring car heritage and increasing collectability. Showing age related wear but offering strong value and long term appeal.