A highly coveted 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II, one of only 502 units produced, is now up for auction on Bring A Trailer. This particular model, number 211, was initially delivered in Switzerland and remained with its first two owners before moving to France in 2018 — at the time of writing it resides in the U.S.
Finished in its original Blue Black Metallic paint over Anthracite leather upholstery, this Evolution II is powered by a 2.5L Cosworth inline-four engine paired with a dogleg five-speed manual transmission. Notable features include the AMG Power Pack, a limited-slip differential, self-leveling suspension and 17-inch Evo II alloy wheels. Additional equipment includes a power sunroof, heated front seats, air conditioning and iconic rear wing.
The Evolution II was introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 1990 as an answer to BMW‘s M3 Sport Evolution. It came with enhanced aerodynamics featuring aggressive fender flares, a front splitter, a rear window spoiler and an adjustable rear wing. The Evo II’s production run was designed to meet Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) homologation requirements.
This model boasts a lower ride height, wider track and larger brakes compared to the standard 2.5-16, along with adjustable self-leveling suspension and four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS. The interior features heated Recaro front seats, Zebrano wood accents, air conditioning and a suite of VDO instrumentation, including a 260-km/h speedometer and a tachometer with a 7,600-rpm redline. Auxiliary gauges for oil temperature and voltage are also included.
Under the hood, the Cosworth-developed 2.5L M102 inline-four engine, enhanced with the AMG PowerPack, produces a factory-rated 232 hp. This rare and meticulously maintained 190E Evolution II represents a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike. At the time of writing, this stunning vehicle, with roughly 59,000 miles on it, has a top bid of $200,000 USD and 11 days left on the auction clock.
