Born from intense competition with BMW’s superb M3, the Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 was the result of a partnership with famed engineering firm Cosworth. The W201 chassis was beefed up with larger anti-roll bars, harder bushings, limited-slip differential, quicker dampers, and a faster steering ratio. Getrag provided the five-speed dogleg gearbox to ensure fast and easy gear selection. Cosworth then took the standard 2.3-liter 8-valve engine and fitted a light alloy cylinder head, dual-overhead cams, and four valves per cylinder. Continued development bumped engine displacement to 2.5 liters in 1988.

The initial “Evo” model overhauled the platform into a thoroughbred racer by installing a tuned version of the 2.5-liter motor, larger brakes, and improved tires. Further enhancements included a wider front and rear track, stiffer adjustable suspension, and revised bodywork. For the Evolution II model, the engineers squeezed out an impressive 238 horsepower. Visually, the true highlight of the Evo II is the aero kit that features a towering rear spoiler, imposing fender flairs, and an even more aggressive front splitter.

This Evo II offered here is the 106th of 502 built; it was delivered new to Mercedes-Benz Frankfurt in April 1990. Clad in the standard shade of Blauschwarz Metallic over Anthracite leather, this example’s build record indicates the fitment of heated seats, an external temperature sensor, power sunroof, rear speakers, airbag-equipped steering wheel, and a Mercedes radio.

Acquired by the consignor in 2001 then showing 1,500 kilometers (~930 miles) and exported to Chile, this well-preserved Evo II presently shows under 27,500 kilometers (~17,100 miles) at time of cataloging. This particular example wears an additional pair of optional spoilers: a fixed front wing and rear decklid spoiler below the larger rear wing.

This Evo II has been carefully preserved in climate-controlled storage and fastidiously maintained by authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers. The consignor states that car was taken for regular drives during their ownership to ensure proper mechanical function. This Evo II was professionally detailed and ceramic coated while within the consignor's care, which was most recently provided in March 2020.

With growing interest in historic motorsport has come renewed interest from collectors in the cars that were homologated in order to allow some of the greatest cars of all time to go racing in the first place. This Evolution II, now offered from twenty years of fastidious ownership by one owner, ranks among the most visually striking of all the homologation specials and warrants pride of place in any garage.