This may be one of the most definitive touring cars, from the era where production cars were based off ridiculous race cars. This Mercedes is a mad mix between German engineering, a British engine, and the modern JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) style. The 190 E Cosworth was born to compete in the Group B rally series in the 1980's, but since this was dominated by Audi and their Quattro all-wheel drive system, Mercedes decided to transition to the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) racing series.
At the initial launch in 1983 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the car came with a 4 cylinder 2.3L 16 valve engine modified by Cosworth. This was detuned from the race engine, but still made 185 hp and 174 lb-ft and was able to push the car to 154 mph. By 1988, the engine was bored out to 2.5L and power was increased to 204 hp. The engine was not the only thing that was impressive about this race worthy 190 E. The chassis was stiffened with larger anti-roll bars and harder bushings, while the suspension had new dampers and a faster steering box. The power was fed through a Getrag 5-speed manual transmission and a LSD differential, which had an optional electronically controlled ASD hydraulically locking differential.
In response to BMW releasing racier models of the M3, which was a direct competitor, Mercedes revamped the 190 E Cosworth with the Evolution trim line. The Evo I and Evo II brought about the radical wide fenders and massive rear wing, which was adjustable with the Evo II. The Evo I and II were both available with a bump up to 232 hp from the AMG division, which had squeezed out more power by improving air flow to the engine with a bigger throttle body and modified camshafts along with other changes.
Please note that the gauge directly above the gear shift is stop watch. A small touch to remind the driver to take this car seriously...
In the used car market, you can expect to not be able to get one of these for less than $200K...The Evo I and II only had a total of 1004 made, so they are a bit hard to come by. You can find 2.3 8V versions for much cheaper, which lack some of the flair, but with a little work you can get them looking like an Evo, just follow Leon Kwiaton and his build for inspiration.
Perks: Pure performance, dat wang, German luxury, racing heritage
Negatives: Availability, cost, time you waste searching for one
Got a minute?
Checkout this video of the race where Aryton Senna won in a field of 190 E 2.3-16 Cosworths. This was before anyone knew who he was and arguably the reason people noticed him.
Vibe to the 80's feel with this DTM video
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