The partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Cosworth, which bore one of the most impressive homologation specials of the late 1980s, began with the goal of developing the 190 E for Group B rally competition. But, amid Audi’s all-wheel-drive domination, Mercedes-Benz shifted focus to the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM), enhancing the W201 chassis with uprated anti-roll bars, firmer bushings, stiffer dampers, a limited-slip differential, a quicker steering ratio, and a Getrag five-speed “dogleg” gearbox.

Cosworth fitted the 190 E’s standard M102 2.3-litre eight-valve inline four-cylinder engine with a light alloy cylinder head featuring dual-overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder—hence the “2.3-16” moniker. Continuous development led to increasing displacement to 2.5 litres in 1988, with even more changes to come the following year with the so-called “Evolution” variant. Its higher-revving 2.5-litre engine had the same output as the preceding motor, but delivered it better, thanks to a bigger bore and shorter stroke.

Chassis enhancements included a 3.27:1 axle ratio, wider front and rear tracks, stiffer adjustable suspension, larger brakes, better tyres, and revised bodywork. The model’s final iteration made its debut in 1990. Dubbed the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II, it put out an impressive 232 horsepower and had an even higher rev limiter. Revised gear ratios, larger wheels, and Brembo four-piston callipers further enhanced driving dynamics. But the true highlight was the aero kit, with its towering rear wing, imposing flared arches, and aggressive front splitter.

The Evolution II dominated its domestic rivals, securing two DTM Constructors’ titles for Mercedes-Benz in 1991 and 1992. As a homologation special, the roadgoing Evolution II, of which only 502 are understood to have been built—all finished in Blue Black Metallic paint—continues to captivate enthusiasts and admirers with its impressive pedigree and beguiling looks.

This example, serial number 283, was delivered new to Switzerland and equipped from the factory with an Anthracite leather interior, electrically adjustable and heated front seats, an electric sliding sunroof, and air conditioning. Its first owner in Kerzers took delivery on 20 August 1990 via Zeughaus-Garage Rotach in Biel, according to information logged in the accompanying service booklet. It further records routine maintenance through dealerships in Kerzers and Bern up to 2006, with the odometer then noted at 79,450 kilometres.

From 2021 to 2023, CarTech Knowledge in Munich, Germany completed a cosmetic and mechanical restoration. This included removing the engine and chassis components, fully refinishing the body in Blue Black Metallic, replacing the injectors and radiator, and overhauling the oil cooler and differential. An invoice for the work shows a reading of 80,301 kilometres. Now presenting in lovely, restored condition, having been driven sparingly since its painstaking refurbishment, this example is offered showing 80,598 kilometres at the time of cataloguing.

The ultimate development of Mercedes-Benz’s lauded W201-generation saloon, 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 sought-after by marque aficionados.