Muscular 1990 Mercedes-Benz offered for sale for a higher price than when new
In March 1990, Mercedes-Benz debuted the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II at the Geneva International Motor Show despite having supposedly sold all 502 of the model’s production run in the weeks prior. Priced then at $80,000 (the equivalent of £101,000, $145,000 or €130,000 today), an especially fine example will be sold at Silverstone Auctions’ Race Retro Classic Car Sale on 27th February at Stoneleigh Park in Coventry with a guide of £140,000 to £160,000 ($201,000 – $230,000 or €181,000 – €206,000).
Featuring what has been described as a “radical body kit” designed by Professor Richard Eppler from the University of Stuttgart, the Evo II was designed with specific aerodynamic qualities in mind. It was wind tunnel tested to reduce drag to 0.29 and to increase downforce and also had an increased horsepower of 235 bhp as opposed to the Evo I’s 202 bhp.
Number 262 of the limited production run, the car on offer is finished in “blauschwarz” blue/black metallic like 500 of its cohorts (the last two cars were made in “astral silver”) and has a black leather interior. It is said to be in immaculate condition, has covered just 2,772 miles since new and been kept in Germany, Guernsey, the United Kingdom and New Zealand.
Capable of 155 mph and 0-60 mph from a standing start in 7.1 seconds, this is a vehicle that is said to have “thrilled professionals and the general public alike when it was unveiled” and it is a car that will continue to wow today. Nothing but ostentatiousness is displayed in its fully adjustable rear spoiler and it is without doubt that this muscular beast will end up in the finest of stables.
Update: 29th February 2016: The car massively exceeded expectations and sold for £292,500 ($405,398 or €372,190).
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