Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II '91

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.N

Displacement

2,463 cc

DriveTrain

FR

Height

1,340 mm

Length

4,544 mm

Weight

1,340 kg

Width

1,720 mm

Max Power

231 BHP / 7,000 rpm

Max Torque

25.0 kgfm / 5,000 rpm

Performance Point

PP 462.11

Manufacturer

Mercedes-Benz

The Legendary Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II '91: Icon of Motorsport and Engineering Excellence

The Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II '91 holds a revered position in automotive history, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's engineering ambition in the early 1990s. Born out of the intense competition of the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM), the Evo II was designed to satisfy homologation requirements, enabling Mercedes to unleash a race-bred powerhouse onto the streets. Only 502 units were produced, making the Evo II an exceptionally rare and sought-after collector's item today.

Aesthetically, the 190 E Evo II is instantly recognizable thanks to its dramatic aerodynamic enhancements, including the towering rear wing, boxed wheel arches, and deep front splitter. Despite their wild appearance, these features were the result of rigorous wind tunnel testing, aimed at delivering maximum downforce and stability for racing. Under the hood, the Evo II housed a 2.5-liter, 16-valve inline-four engine, developed by Cosworth, generating 235 horsepower—remarkable figures for its era. The engine was paired with a robust Getrag 5-speed manual transmission, ensuring a truly engaging driving experience.

The Evo II's legacy is most deeply etched in its DTM racing success. Following its introduction, the car dominated the 1992 DTM season, helping driver Klaus Ludwig secure the championship and cementing the model’s reputation as a true motorsport legend. Its race-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and advanced aerodynamics offered a significant advantage over contemporaries, allowing it to challenge—and often beat—rivals like the BMW M3 E30. This competitive edge not only captivated racing enthusiasts but also burned the 190 E Evo II into the annals of touring car history.

Beyond motorsport, the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II has achieved enduring status among car enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, valued for its rarity, performance, and unmistakable presence. Its combination of racing pedigree and daily usability showcases Mercedes-Benz's commitment to blending luxurious construction with cutting-edge technology. Today, the Evo II is celebrated as one of the most iconic homologation specials, regularly featured at classic car events and fetching high numbers at auctions, further securing its legacy among the greatest sports sedans ever built.