Jointly developed by Mercedes-Benz, Cosworth Engineering, and AMG, the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II of 1990 is—despite its outrageous, adolescent visage—one of the most refined, directly engaging sports sedans ever made. It is a stellar product forged in the crucible of motorsport.

On track, the Evolution II dominated its domestic rivals and secured two consecutive German Touring Championship (DTM) Constructors’ titles for AMG-Mercedes in 1991 and 1992. For its part as a homologation special, the roadgoing Evolution II has captivated enthusiasts and gawkers alike since its unveiling. Its pedigree and looks proved so beguiling that more than a few Mercedes-Benz dealers are guilty of having displayed an example in their showrooms for years after the end of its racing relevance.

The Evolution II offers an impressive 235 horsepower from its tightly wound 2.5-litre, four-cylinder engine. The 16-valve head, engine management system, and five-speed “dogleg” transmission are all complimentarily configured to encourage spirited, technical driving at high revs approaching the engine’s 7,800 rpm redline.

The model’s enhanced chassis is further improved by Brembo four-piston brake calipers tucked inside 17-inch wheels, self-leveling suspension, and bodywork dressed in an aggressive aero kit that includes a towering rear spoiler, imposing flared arches, and an adjustable front splitter. The Evolution II’s aero kit proved so effective that other DTM teams vehemently protested it, to no avail, and BMW’s Head of Research, Wolfgang Reitzle, reportedly claimed that “if that rear wing works, we'll have to redesign our wind tunnel".

Evolution II number 429 is a Swiss-market example which was acquired by the consignor in 2016 and subsequently imported to their collection in Abu Dhabi. The only notable modification from stock is the fitment of a leather-wrapped Momo Type M38 steering wheel and matching hub boss—the same type as found in the AMG-Mercedes 190 racecars and also the earlier AMG “Hammer” flagship model.

As presented today, the car shows just 67,524 kilometres at the time of cataloguing, and it remains wonderfully preserved throughout. The ultimate development of Mercedes-Benz’s lauded W201-generation sedan, the 2.5-16 Evolution II’s success on the racetrack, incredible looks, and direct driving dynamics make it a hot-ticket item which remains covetously sought-after by marque aficionados.