Mercedes-Benz 190E

vs

Ford Mustang Shelby GT350

Germany vs USA — 1990 vs 2015

Mercedes-Benz 190E (1990)
Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 (2015)
Specifications
190E 2.5-16 Evolution IIMustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8
Horsepower235 hp526 hp
Torque181 lb-ft429 lb-ft
Engine Size2,463 cc5,163 cc
0-60 mph7.1 sec4.3 sec
Top Speed155 mph174 mph
¼ Mile15.2 sec12.5 sec
Weight3,648 lbs
Wheelbase2,665 mm2,720 mm
Length4,487 mm4,784 mm
Units Produced502
Original MSRP$59,440
Value (Excellent)$500,000$85,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity9/105/10
The Verdict

The 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

When Germany engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II and 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 526 hp compared to 235 hp, a 291-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 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 relies on a V8 DOHC 32V flat-plane crank with 5,163 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 edges ahead at 4.3 seconds versus 7.1 seconds. On the collector market, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II commands a significant premium over the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.