LOT 134
1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E Evo I VIN. WDB2010361F598552
Sold for US$224,000 inc. premium
Lot 134
1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E Evo I
The Audrain Auction|3 October 2025, 16:00 EDT|Newport, Rhode Island, International Tennis Hall of Fame
1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E Evo I
VIN. WDB2010361F598552
VIN. WDB2010361F598552
2,463cc DOHC Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
Bosch KE-Jetronic Fuel Injection
197bhp at 6,200rpm
5-Speed Getrag Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Multi-Link Suspension
4-Wheel Disc brakes
* Numbers matching engine and transmission
* Well documented with its Vehicle History Report, stamped warranty/service booklet, tools/jack, spare wheel, radio code card, spare keys, window sticker/COC.
* Maintained in original, unrestored condition with only necessary service work undertaken
* Carefully kept with only 21,400km (13,500 miles) documented by service history and receipts
MERCEDES-BENZ 190E 2.5-16 EVOLUTION I
In the late 1980s, Mercedes-Benz was determined to assert itself in the fiercely competitive German Touring Car Championship (DTM). To do so, the company turned to Cosworth to help develop a high-revving four-cylinder engine, and in 1989, homologation requirements led to the creation of the limited-production 190E 2.5-16 Evolution I.
Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the EVO I featured significant technical upgrades over the standard 2.5-16, including revised aerodynamics with deeper front and rear spoilers, flared wheel arches, and an adjustable rear wing. Under the hood, the 2.5-liter engine was refined to deliver improved response and durability at racing speeds, paired with a dogleg Getrag 5-speed manual gearbox. Suspension geometry was extensively reworked, incorporating a ride-height adjustment system to suit both road and track conditions.
Production was strictly limited to just 502 examples, all built in 1989, making the EVO I one of the rarest homologation specials of its era. Offered only in select markets, it marked Mercedes-Benz's first true step into developing a road-going machine that directly mirrored its motorsport ambitions.
Although overshadowed in the public eye by its successor, the more aggressive EVO II, the EVO I remains the purest expression of Mercedes-Benz's original DTM homologation project. Today, it is celebrated not only for its rarity but also as a pivotal car that cemented the marque's reputation in touring car racing.
THE CAR OFFERED
This particular 190E is a prime example of Mercedes-Benz's engineering prowess during the late 1980s. Delivered in October 1989, the 190E was first imported into Japan where, according to provided user notes, it remained in limited use before being officially registered in 1995 to Mr. Wakabayashi. From 1995 to the present day, this 190E survived in its original condition thanks to thoughtful owners who preserved its factory original paint and maintained original components.
Subjected to a controlled existence, and well-maintained based on accompanying records, this 190E has been sparingly driven with total mileage of only 21,400km (13,500 miles). The engine and transmission are confirmed as matching by the documentation, adding to the provenance of this remarkable survivor car. Retaining its original Blue Black Metallic exterior and Black Leather interior, the car remains impressively original, underpinned by rich documentation showing careful stewardship over the decades.
Mr. Wakabayashi, the first owner, writes of driving the 190E approximately 11,000km during his five years of ownership before subsequent owners transported it across continents to its current home in Miami. The car retains its original exhaust and suspension components, accentuating the care bestowed upon it to keep it authentic.
Generously documented with a Vehicle History Report, a stamped warranty/service booklet, tools/jack, spare wheel, radio code card, spare keys, and Kardex/COC, purchasing this 190E is akin to acquiring desirable history. Its preservation state is reflected in the factory original paint, which is in outstanding condition considering the car's age.
This 190E also has attached service history and receipts substantiating its low mileage and underscoring how the necessary services were not skimped on. Included in the service archive is an account of a comprehensive service performed in Germany. The car is accompanied by services invoices showcasing the owner's dedication to maintaining the original condition of this timeless classic.
In offering, the 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E is upholding an appetite for preservation and originality. This is a remarkably well-kept Mercedes-Benz appealing to collectors who value authenticity and preservation over restoration. For those appreciative of history and originality, the acquisition of this car would indeed seem a rewarding experience. This 190E is more than a car – it is a thing of beauty, irresistibly drawing you into its rich history and heritage.
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