Germany vs Germany — 1992 vs 1983
| 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II | 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 235 hp | 185 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 162 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,463 cc | 2,299 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.1 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.4 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,998 lbs | 2,778 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,665 mm | 2,665 mm |
| Length | 4,475 mm | 4,420 mm |
| Units Produced | 502 | 20,000 |
| Original MSRP | $75,000 | $32,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $90,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II for outright capability, or the 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mercedes-Benz 190E. The 1992 and 1983 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II holds a clear advantage in raw power with 235 hp compared to 185 hp, a 50-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 190E uses a Inline-4 displacing 2,463 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 2,299 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II edges ahead at 7.1 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 220 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 502 units built, the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16's 20,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II commands a significant premium over the 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.