Born from rally dreams and built for the Autobahn. It’s got that boxy ‘80s charm, a Cosworth-tuned heart, and a chassis that begs to be pushed!
Overview
SBX Cars is proud to offer for sale this 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 sport sedan showing 87,288 kilometers at the time of this cataloging. Finished in charcoal metallic over a black leather and cloth patterned interior, it is offered in Dubai with an AutoHub report and a service booklet.
The W201-chassis 190E sedan was designed by none other than Bruno Sacco, who served as the renowned head of styling at Mercedes-Benz from 1975 through 1999. Some called the 190E the “Baby Benz” because it was Mercedes’ first foray into the compact sedan market. Despite its proportions, the car had a long list of merits, and it soon became known for its advanced engineering.
In particular, the sporty 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 variants drew praise because of their motorsports heritage: They were engineered in limited production quantities to meet racing requirements in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) series. The 190E had a powerful engine and a communicative suspension, not to mention distinctive styling cues like flared wheel arches, unique bumpers, and a unique rear spoiler.
This low-mileage 190E 2.5-16 is presented in detail and represents a compelling ownership opportunity for Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its athletic body is well-kept, and its driver-focused interior comes with niceties like a Kenwood audio system, woodgrain trim, and a Nardi Torino steering wheel. The car has fully inspected by AutoHub for an informed purchase decision and peace of mind.
For a blend of engineering excellence, racing heritage, and captivating performance, this 190E was the must-have German sport sedan in the 1980s, and today, it is an even more exclusive machine.
Specifications & Options
Exterior
- Charcoal metallic paint
- Black trim
- Chin, side skirt, and rear underbody spoilers
- Headlight wipers
- Chrome grille
- Hood ornament
- Single windshield wiper
- Power antenna
- Flared wheel arches
- Decklid spoiler
- Louvered taillights
- 17-inch six-spoke silver wheels
- 245/40 Pirelli Cinturato P7 tires
Interior
- Black leather upholstery
- Bucket seats
- Patterned cloth inserts
- Nardi Torino leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Driver door “car management” placard from Fujita Motors in Japan
- Service history record
- Power windows
- Woodgrain trim
- Air conditioning
- Kenwood U310 audio system
- CD player
- iPod and USB connectivity
- Floor mats
- Gauges
- 260-km/h speedometer
- 8,000-rpm tachometer
- Clock
- Instantaneous fuel economy
- Coolant temperature
- Fuel level
- Voltage
- Oil pressure
Mechanical
- M102 2.5-liter Cosworth DOHC inline-four
- Rated at 201 horsepower
- Rated at 176 lb-ft of torque
- Four-speed automatic transmission
- Gated shifter
- Limited-slip differential
- Front and rear anti-roll bars
- Multi-link rear suspension
- Four-wheel disc brakes
Service History
A booklet of service history in Japanese will accompany the vehicle.
Condition & Reports
The vehicle was inspected by AutoHub on July 12, 2025, and the report is available below for review. The report showed the following:
- The passenger doors and both rear quarter panels are said to have been repainted
- Paint thickness readings from around the perimeter ranged between 0.5mm and 14.5mm as shown in the photos
- Brake pad remaining life was measured at 70% both front and rear
- The battery was tested and shown to be in good condition
- The transmission oil sump bolts have reportedly been retrofitted
For further review, a walk-around video has been provided which shows an exterior walk-around, interior overview, and engine bay with the vehicle at idle.
- The suspension bushings and engine mounts were classified as weak
- Service overall was recommended
- The air conditioning is not cooling well
- In addition, the “Damage Points” diagram shows areas demonstrating scratches and evidence of repaint.
Included in the Sale
- Key
- Service record booklet from prior ownership in Japan
Summary
The 190E is a sought-after classic with a dedicated fan base, and for good reason. It pays tribute to Mercedes’ successful racing pedigree in the DTM series. This 87,000-kilometer sport sedan is a collector’s dream come true – a “Baby Benz” with grown-up performance capabilities.
As part of the consignment process, SBX Cars requests a range of information from the seller pertaining to the subject of their offering. The auction listing description therefore is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. However, it is the responsibility of a potential buyer to satisfy themself as to the accuracy of the auction listing description. This includes conducting an in-person inspection, which may be arranged between the buyer and seller, as well as verifying the condition, authenticity, value, and title before committing to bid or buy. Please see our Terms of Service for full details.
Buyer's Premium
The Buyer’s Premium will be added to the final sale price and is payable directly to SBX Cars. Sales tax applicability will be determined by buyer's location.
- Buyer's premium: 5%
Bid History
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1989Mercedes-BenzE190 2.5 16
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