Germany vs Japan — 1986 vs 2005
| 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II | Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 235 hp | 274 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,463 cc | 2,261 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.1 sec | 5.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,954 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,665 mm | 2,675 mm |
| Length | 4,480 mm | 4,745 mm |
| Units Produced | 502 | — |
| Original MSRP | $79,000 | $28,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $400,000 | $20,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring counters with more power, quicker acceleration, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When Germany engineering meets Japan craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II and 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring holds a clear advantage in raw power with 274 hp compared to 235 hp, a 39-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 190E uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 2,463 cc, while the Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve MZR DISI turbo with 2,261 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 7.1 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 190E carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 646 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II commands a significant premium over the 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.