Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evolution I,II

With the debut of the BMW M3 Sport Evolution, Mercedes’ direct competitor, it became obvious that the 2.5-16 needed a boost for the circuit. In March 1989, the 190E 2.5-16 Evolution debuted at the Geneva Auto Show. The Evo I, as it came to be called, featured a more aggressive bodykit including a new spoiler and wider wheel arches, although many of the changes were to under-the-skin components such as brakes and suspension as well as a full SLS suspension allowing vehicle ride height to be adjusted from an interior switch. All were intended to allow the Evolution cars to be even more effective round a track.

In terms of performance the Evo I’s output was, on paper, identical to the 202 bhp of the “regular” 2.5-16. However this car had a redesigned engine of similar capacity but, most importantly, a shorter stroke and bigger bore which would allow for a higher rev limit and improved top-end power capabilities. Additional changes stretch to “rotating masses lightened, lubrication improved and cam timing altered”.

Only 502 units of the Evolution model were produced for homologation in compliance with DTM rules. For those customers desiring even more performance an option PowerPack option engineered by AMG was available for merely DM18 ,000. The PowerPack option included hotter camshafts, a larger diameter throttle body, more aggressive ignition and fuel management as well as optimization of the intake and exhaust systems. The net result was an additional 30 bhp.

While the Evolution I model did quite well, engineers knew that the 190E could be improved further. In March 1990, again at the Geneva Auto Show, the 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II was shown. With the success of the first Evolution model, this model’s 502-unit production was already sold before it was unveiled. This car retailed in 1990 for US$80,000.