1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16V

GCF Original Feature

It is quite clear that the 190E 2.3 16V is a very special automobile with the kind of pedigree very few share. Our 1986 smoke silver example seems like it just rolled off the showroom floor. It is a stellar example of an amazingly fun car to drive from almost two decades ago. The owners of this pristine specimen, Greg and Brenda Calabro, are extremely happy to have found this amazing car in the fall of 2000. The car originally resided in Arizona and was shipped cross-country to its anticipating owner's in New Jersey. Since Mercedes Benz created this car for racing it has many special components like a Getrag manual transmission with a dog leg first gear. As mentioned previously the hydro pneumatic multilink rear suspension keeps the tires in contact with the road. From the factory, an aerodynamic package was fitted, which consisted of a front spoiler, wheel arches, side skirts, rear valance and rear wing. This reduced lift dramatically, which aided handling. A low coefficient drag (cd) of .32 helped give the German car a 141 mph top speed. The US bound cars used different cams and had a smaller compression ratio plus a more restrictive exhaust. Horsepower was down slightly to167 hp from the European model's 185hp but different gearing allowed the US model to accelerate almost as quickly with a 137mph top speed. At this summers Mercedes Benz Club of America's, "June Jamboree" car show at MBUSA headquarters, we kept coming back to see this 16V over and over again. This award winning automobile has a near flawless exterior with additions like European spec H4 flush mounted headlights giving the front end a sleeker look as well much improved lighting and aerodynamics. I have always loved the subtle aggressiveness of the 190E 2.3 16V. Everything looks like it has a purpose. Tasteful body proportions combined with 17 inch Evolution 2 wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Sport tires really fill out the wheel arches while lending a reminiscent feel of the original DTM racecars. Koni adjustable struts reside in the front suspension allowing some adjustability during track events but the rear suspension is stock. ABS brakes are standard as well as brake cooling ducts to keep brake temperatures under control. Pristine German black leather covers the incredibly comfortable electric Recaro sports seats. Mercedes Benz had added a stopwatch, voltmeter and oil temp gauge to the lower center console backing up its motor sports intentions. In the rear, there are only two Recaro seats with supportive side bolsters, which makes this a 4-passenger vehicle only. It is nice to see such a wonderfully preserved Mercedes Cosworth (as they are called in many circles). Since only 2000 were imported into the US, the 190E 2.3 16V has a strong following and is a collectable. This makes this car as much of a rare bird as a Ferrari. The fact that this car has FIA world records and multiple DTM championships is more than enough to make it desirable. The 190E 2.3 16V was designed for the purpose of motor sports, which lends an air of exotica. This car has been driven 10,000 miles since purchased and every moment has been a joy for the Calabro's. They are passionate about their 190E 2.3 16V and plan on keeping it a very long time. Besides driving it often, they also enjoy informing fellow enthusiast of the background behind the 16V. What other road car can you say the legendary Ayrton Senna drove to victory?