1989 – Mercedes 190E 2.5 16S

1989 - Mercedes 190E 2.5 16S French registration Chassis n°WDB2010351F645964 - The sportiest, most versatile version of the 190, with legendary reliability - Original French example, in good condition and very pure livery - Electric sunroof and windows, air conditioning to be recommissioned - Car serviced to 225,000 kms, ready to hit the road At Mercedes-Benz, customers are spoilt for choice, from economical station wagons to supercars. Yet this wasn't always the case. At the dawn of the 1980s, the manufacturer enjoyed a prestigious reputation, but remained reserved for the upper-middle class. Its sedans, although among the best in the world, were considered to be the cars of "patriarchs". The aim was to offer an inexpensive model with the same high standards of finish and reliability that the company is so proud of, while considerably rejuvenating its image. The W201 series benefits from special care, as it is the first to explore a range where Mercedes-Benz has never ventured before: station wagons. Nothing is left to chance: reliability and safety, aerodynamics and power, comfort and finish. The "Baby-Benz" was launched in 1982 to instant success. The car made a lasting impression. For the first time, it was possible for a very large number of people to acquire a sedan with the star. It inaugurated what we now call the "premium wagon" category. This success naturally led to the expansion of the range, with a multitude of gasoline versions in addition to the numerous diesel engines. A restyling was carried out in 1988 to revive interest. Buoyed by its success and true to its reputation as an incomparable engine manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz reinforced the 190 with a version equipped with a 2.3-liter 16-valve engine, introduced in 1984 and replaced by a 2.5-liter 16S in 1988. The 190 even benefits from a DTM homologation series, the famous "Evo I" and "Evo II", demonstrating that the 190 is also capable of winning on the racetrack. Our 190 (W201) was launched on August 10, 1989. It's a Phase 2 with a 195 hp 2.5-liter 16S engine, the most sought-after version. Its livery is a silver-gray metallic combination with black leather interior, as sober as it is elegant. Until 2015, it would have known mainly three owners, before being acquired by its current owner in 2021. Its odometer shows just over 225,000 kilometers. Recent work includes a complete overhaul of the braking system, as well as replacement of the shock absorbers, clutch, fuel pump, injectors and injection pump. Aesthetically, the paintwork has been redone for 2019. All the elements specific to this model are in good condition and contribute greatly to the 190's proud appearance. Several options enhance its comfort, such as the sunroof and 4 electric windows, or the 4 headrests, headlamp washers and hydraulic suspension, or the air conditioning, which will be recommissioned with the installation of a new compressor. Thanks to the legends that the 190-EVOs have become, the W201 in its sporty versions has never ceased to attract the attention and interest of collectors, provided they can find a well-maintained, original example, like this 190E 2.5-16, representing a youngtimer that can be used on a daily basis by the whole family.