1987 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16V 5-Speed Manual

This 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16V is a European-spec example showing 133,937 kilometers (~83,270 miles) and presented in excellent condition inside and out. Finished in Smoke Silver Metallic (702) over Black Leather (271), this performance-oriented “baby Benz” is powered by a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-four developed in collaboration with Cosworth, paired with a Getrag 5-speed dogleg manual transmission and a limited-slip differential.

Equipment & Features

Mechanical Highlights

The Cosworth-tuned M102.983 2.3L inline-four features a dual overhead camshaft and four valves per cylinder, producing approximately 185 horsepower when new. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a Getrag close-ratio dogleg 5-speed manual and a limited-slip differential, offering the precise handling and performance that made the 190E 2.3-16 a motorsport icon.

Service History

This 190E comes with service records from new, showing consistent maintenance throughout its life. In 2023, a complete tune-up was performed including:

Interior Condition

The cabin shows very well with its original leather upholstery, clean carpets, and intact wood trim. The dash, steering wheel, and switchgear remain in excellent condition with minimal wear. All major functions operate as intended, including the sunroof and A/C.

Exterior Condition

The Smoke Silver paint retains a deep shine with even panel gaps and original body lines. The factory body kit and 16-valve-specific rear spoiler present cleanly, with the exterior trim and lenses in very good condition.

Engine Bay

The engine compartment appears clean and well-maintained, displaying factory finishes, decals, and original hardware consistent with careful ownership and maintenance.

Summary

Offered with documented service history, recent maintenance, and showing ~83k miles, this well-preserved 190E 2.3-16V represents an opportunity to own one of Mercedes-Benz’s most celebrated performance sedans — a model that bridged luxury and motorsport engineering in the 1980s.