Rare and iconic, this Mercedes 190 E 2.3-16 is one of the most legendary sports cars of the 1980s.

We are offering this example, delivered new in France on 28 August 1986, which has just celebrated its 40th anniversary.

Introduced in 1984, the 190 E 2.3-16 was created with a clear ambition: to make Mercedes a true competitor to BMW in the field of sports sedans. To transform its sober 190 into a characterful sports car, Mercedes called upon the British specialist Cosworth, which developed a remarkable 16-valve cylinder head.

Under the bonnet, there is a 2,299 cc inline 4-cylinder engine producing 185 hp, particularly lively at high revs and very reliable.

Power is transmitted through a 5-speed manual Getrag gearbox, recognizable by its inverted shift pattern, with first gear positioned at the bottom.

With a weight of only 1,220 kg, performance remains impressive: 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, 1,000 m from a standing start in 28.7 seconds and a claimed top speed of 230 km/h.

Now showing 223,500 km, this 190 E 2.3-16 has benefited from extensive mechanical restoration work since 2023, including:

• 4 brake discs, pads and shoes

• Complete air-conditioning overhaul: compressor, system, receiver/drier and expansion valve

• Front suspension ball joints

• Idle speed actuator and idle control hose

• Primary exhaust manifold

• Water radiator

• Oil cooler

• Right rear wheel bearing

• Cylinder head gasket replaced as a preventive measure

• Oil level sensor

• 4 fuel injectors and their supports

• Rear suspension arms

• Oil pressure sender

• Distributor cap

• Distributor rotor

• Spark plugs

• Oil changes and filters

Major work was also carried out at 180,000 km, including:

• Complete clutch

• Complete timing system with chain, tensioners, sprockets and guide rail

• Driveshaft centre bearing and bearing

• 2 rear suspension spheres with hydraulic circuit bleeding

• Rear subframe bushes

• 3 differential oil seals

• 2 rear shock absorber struts

• 2 engine mount bushes

• 4 wheel bearings

• And many other items.

The mechanical components are now in sound condition and nothing needs to be done.

This 190 E 2.3-16 is finished in Blauschwarz Metallic.

The interior is in excellent condition, with no tears or wear, and features the highly sought-after half-leather, half-checkered fabric seats characteristic of this sports car.

The bodywork is sound and shows no corrosion.

The air conditioning has also been completely overhauled and converted to R134 gas, with the work carried out by Mercedes and an invoice for €3,500.

Sold with a 12-month warranty.

Viewing strictly by appointment at Sportwagen Paris, in the 15th arrondissement of Paris.

Part exchange and financing solutions available.

Other similar vehicles available.