Originally developed for rally racing, the Cosworth developed 190E was the right car at the wrong time. Set to compete against the dominant Audi Quattros, Cosworth switched its sights to DTM (German Touring Car) racing. This was probably the best outcome for Cosworth, Mercedes-Benz and car enthusiasts the world over, as Mercedes-Benz now had to build road going versions of the 190E Cosworth to meet the requirements for competing in the DTM championship.
With help from Cosworth, the 190 went from an economy sedan to a rocket ship for the streets. The M102 2.3-liter 8-valve, received the Cosworth treatment resulting 167 hp and 162 lb·ft. The power was put to the rear wheels by a Getrag 5-speed that featured a ‘dog-leg’ first gear, and a limited slip differential.
This low mileage Cossie for sale in Fort Lee, New Jersey is a well preserved example of ’80s motorsport history.

Classic 1987 Mercedes 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth
Up for sale is a special 1987 Mercedes Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth with low mileage and vivid history. The car belonged to the Automobile Magazine editor Jason Camissa featuring in 2008 Feb. issued article “Second Hand Thrills”.
http://www.automobilemag.com/features/great_drives/0702_1988_bmw_m3_vs_1987_mercedes_benz_190e_23_16/viewall.html
The motor is strong and the 5 speed dog-leg shifts well. The interior is very clean and no wear on the leather. All original paint except the grill and hood resprayed to the body color code 199 and mirrors painted to BMW Imola Red color code 405. The Evo II wheels condition is 9/10. I will include the 4 Pilot Sport all season’s 235/40/ZR17s and 500E front pads and rotors with the asking price.
Hella European headlights, Evo II wheels, Bilstein HD shocks and Vogtland springs in the front. The original front struts and springs are included in the sale. Rear Self Leveling System retained and lowered 1 inch by adjusting the linkage/ arms.
The factory Evo I front bumper/lip/splitter sold separately.
The rear wheels starting to squeak noise; the rear wheel bearings may need to be replaced. The small cover on the front bumper is missing A/C need to be served.
Contact me if you have any questions.
This is a car that I’ve always wanted to own. After driving one a few years back, I fell in love. With 45,000 miles this is the ideal condition to buy one of these in, not so pristine that you’re afraid to drive it, but not so many miles that it needs too much. In my eyes, this is the perfect compromise for a car to add to a collection. While the car has a few great upgrades, like the Evo II wheels and upgraded suspension, the painted mirrors, grill, and other bits simply need to go.
Seeing this car listed at $8,950 is refreshing. It seems as though many Cossie owners are trying to ride the wave of E30 M3 pricing and price these cars in the stratosphere when they’re just not there yet. This car with the mileage and the condition is a bargain at this price and a good opportunity to get in to one of these on the ground floor, as they will only appreciate in the years to come.
-Brian