Highlights

Comprehensive documented history from new
Full engine strip and rebuild with original components retained
Recent reconditioning of gearbox and limited slip differential
Genuine AMG Monoblock alloys with very good tyres
Advisory-free MOT valid until February 2025

The Appeal

The 190E Cosworth needs no introduction. But few know that it came about almost by accident...

Mercedes-Benz originally intended to build a rally car to compete with the BDA Escorts. Stuttgart consulted legendary engine specialist Cosworth, and the project was shaping up nicely - until the Quattro arrived.

Audi changed the nature of rallying forever. From now on, a rear-wheel-drive car just wouldn't do, so Mercedes turned its attention to Touring Car, where the 190E Cosworth would go on to be enormously successful. It was, of course, homologated for sale, and we're delighted to offer this road-going example of the revered 2.5-16 from 1990.

It's a local car, supplied new by the vendor's nearest Mercedes-Benz dealership to a gentleman who lived just 200 yards or so from his house! During present ownership, Mercedes-Benz specialists have carried out a great deal of work, for which the vendor has provided details included below. The car comes with an A4 box file containing a fully documented history. It has just passed its MOT with no advisories, so it is good until February 2025.

The vendor adds:

"If you like the idea of driving around in a well cared for, reliable classic car that you can drive every day and won't cost you a fortune to insure and run, this could be the one for you. Easy to maintain yourself, or there are many reasonably priced specialists (outside of the Merc main dealer network) around.

This is the 2.5-16 Auto with a full leather interior, air conditioning, electric windows, and a sunroof. Back in the 1990s, this was a very cool and fast car. It's still very cool and gets a lot of attention wherever it goes. If you're the shy, retiring type, this car isn't for you!

History and Paperwork

MOT until 27th February 2025
UK market right-hand drive example from 1990
Ten former registered keepers
Complete documented history from new
All work carried out by Mercedes specialists with invoices included
Garaged throughout current ownership

The Condition

An original, straight and solid-looking example
Genuine AMG Monoblock alloys with very good tyres
Inner and outer sills have been replaced
Paintwork shows some signs of age with minor surface scratches and other small imperfections but nothing especially noteworthy
Reportedly corrosion-free
Front seats have new foam inserts with original leather covers
Rear door cards showing signs of age, but otherwise serviceable
We understand the cabin electrics to be in good working order; the vendor says everything works as it should (even the lap timer and outside temp display) and the air con is nice and cold

The Mechanics

2.5-litre 16v four-cylinder Cosworth engine
Four-speed automatic transmission
No MOT advisories recorded when last tested

The vendor informs us of the following work carried out:

Full engine strip and rebuild (bores, pistons, crank, bearings and cams all found to be within tolerance, so are original)
Limited slip diff rebuilt with new bearings and seals
New propshaft centre bearing and bush
OSF wing replaced with original MB part
Gearbox reconditioned (original gearbox retained)
New Bilstein shocks and springs front and back
All new brakes front and back (callipers, discs and pads)
Air con recommissioned with new condenser, compressor, hoses and pressure switches
Exhaust replaced, (warranty and receipt included in the sale)

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand.